Dawn Staley, one of the most iconic figures in women’s basketball, has captivated fans both on and off the court. As the head coach of the powerhouse South Carolina Gamecocks, she has led her team to national dominance. However, just as much curiosity surrounds her personal life — especially rumors regarding a romantic relationship with associate head coach Lisa Boyer. So, is Dawn Staley married? Here’s everything you need to know.
Who Is Dawn Staley?
Dawn Michelle Staley was born on May 4, 1970, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and as of 2025, she is 54 years old. A Taurus by zodiac, Staley was raised in a close-knit household with her parents Clarence and Estelle Staley, alongside four siblings — Lawrence, Anthony, Eric, and Tracey.
She attended Dobbins Technical High School, where her basketball skills began turning heads. After graduating, she enrolled at the University of Virginia (UVA) and majored in Rhetoric and Communication Studies, while dominating college basketball. During her college years, Staley was named the ACC Female Athlete of the Year in both 1991 and 1992, and received National Player of the Year honors.
Dawn Staley’s Career: From Player to Hall of Fame Coach
Staley’s career as a professional basketball player began in 1996. She played in the American Basketball League (ABL) before transitioning to the WNBA, where she played for teams like the Charlotte Sting and Houston Comets. She also had a remarkable international career, winning three Olympic gold medals with Team USA (1996, 2000, 2004).
After retiring from playing in 2006, she transitioned into coaching. She took the helm at Temple University before becoming the head coach at South Carolina in 2008. Under her leadership, the Gamecocks women’s basketball program has flourished, including winning multiple national championships.
Is Dawn Staley Married?
Despite her fame and public presence, Dawn Staley is not married, and she has never publicly confirmed any romantic relationship. The most persistent rumor over the years involves her close relationship with Lisa Boyer, her longtime coaching partner and associate head coach at South Carolina.
The Lisa Boyer Rumors Explained
In 2018, a now-deleted tweet by Staley sparked significant speculation. She posted a message celebrating ten years of working with Boyer, referring to their bond in terms often reserved for married couples:
“We are that old married couple who started young and will grow old together… Thanks for sacrificing your career to help me serve our teams, program, university, and state.”
Boyer responded warmly, writing:
“10 years!!! Went by in a blink. Laughs, tears, joys, disappointments, heartaches, and victories, BUT always shoulder to shoulder. Let’s get this next 10 started!!!”
Though the messages fueled assumptions that they might be romantically involved, neither Staley nor Boyer has ever confirmed such claims. Both maintain a strictly professional public relationship and have emphasized their strong coaching partnership as the foundation of their bond.
Who Is Lisa Boyer?
Lisa Boyer is a trailblazer in her own right. Born in Ogdensburg, New York, she graduated from Ithaca College in 1979, where she played forward for the college basketball team. She later earned a Master’s in Education from North Carolina-Greensboro in 1982.
Boyer made history as the first woman to serve on an NBA coaching staff with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2001–2002. Before her NBA stint, she served as head coach for the Bradley Braves women’s team from 1986 to 1996. She joined South Carolina in 2008 and has worked with Staley ever since.
Dawn Staley’s Relationship Status: Still Single
Despite the persistent rumors, Dawn Staley remains single. She has never been married, nor has she publicly spoken about any past romantic relationships. As someone who values privacy, she keeps her personal life out of the spotlight, focusing instead on her coaching, players, and advocacy efforts.
Net Worth and Achievements
As of 2025, Dawn Staley’s net worth is estimated at $6 million to $8 million. This figure comes from her WNBA salary during her playing days, lucrative coaching contracts, endorsements, and media appearances.
In 2021, Staley signed a groundbreaking seven-year, $22.4 million contract with South Carolina, making her one of the highest-paid women’s basketball coaches in the nation. She also holds various honors, including:
- Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee (2013)
- Naismith Coach of the Year (Multiple Times)
- Olympic Flag Bearer for Team USA (2004)
Dawn Staley Today
Currently residing in Columbia, South Carolina, Dawn Staley continues to lead one of the most dominant programs in women’s college basketball. Known for her fierce competitiveness, deep knowledge of the game, and ability to inspire young athletes, she’s also a strong advocate for racial and gender equality in sports.
Whether or not she ever opens up about her personal relationships, Staley’s legacy is defined by leadership, excellence, and integrity — both on and off the court.
Final Thoughts
To answer the internet’s burning question — Dawn Staley is not married, and while rumors have long linked her to Lisa Boyer, there is no confirmed romantic relationship between the two. What is undeniably real is their decade-plus-long coaching partnership that has redefined women’s college basketball.
In the end, Staley’s story is one of professional greatness, fierce loyalty, and unmatched dedication — a legacy that continues to grow with every season.
