She’s telling the inspiring story about her legendary career!
Dawn Staley, a three-time NCAA championship coach, WNBA All-Star, and the highest-paid Black woman in women’s basketball, is sharing those stories in her new book, Uncommon Favor: Basketball, North Philly, My Mother and the Life Lessons I Learned from All Three, People reports. Set to be published on May 20th by Charlamagne Tha God’s Black Privilege Publishing, Uncommon Favor isn’t just a recounting of Staley’s accolades—it’s a deeply personal reflection on the “touchstones and turning points that molded her.”
The book highlights Staley’s humble beginnings, from the Raymond Rosen Housing Projects in North Philadelphia to the heights of basketball greatness. Staley never forgot the people and lessons that paved her way. She discusses the pivotal people, places, and experiences that shaped her from a determined young girl with a basketball in hand to one of the most respected leaders in the game.
“From my first moment on the court, basketball made me feel like I belonged,” Staley shared via statement. “This book is my chance to honor the people who have built me up and to show the world what I’ve learned about what it takes to move the room and get things done.”
Staley’s journey is the definition of Black excellence. A dominant point guard for the University of Virginia, she went on to win three Olympic gold medals for Team USA in 1996, 2000, and 2004. A standout WNBA player, she was also chosen for the All-Star team multiple times. But her impact didn’t stop on the court – eventually, she transitioned into coaching. Since taking over as head coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks in 2008, she has led the team to three NCAA championships, most recently in 2024.
Her influence extends beyond basketball as well. Staley made history as the only person to win the Naismith Award as both a player and a coach, and she continues to break barriers, inspiring generations of athletes and leaders to dream big and push past limitations.
Black Privilege Publishing, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, said they are proud to bring Staley’s debut book to readers.
“Beyond her extraordinary accomplishments as a player and a coach, she is known as an inspiring and exemplary leader,” says Jonathan Karp, CEO of Simon & Schuster. “The same winning insights that have produced championship teams will benefit generations of readers.”
Uncommon Favor is now available for preorder wherever books are sold. With Staley’s signature grit, wisdom, and passion, this book promises to be a must-read for anyone looking to learn from one of the greatest to ever do it.
Cover photo: Coach Dawn Staley to Release New Book Chronicling Her Legendary Career/Photo credit: Black Privilege Publishing