Coach Dawn Staley expresses readiness for New York Knicks job, had opportunity presented itself

Dawn Staley's Historic NBA Coaching Interview

Dawn Staley, a renowned name in women's basketball, made headlines this summer when she became the first woman to officially interview for a full-time NBA head coaching position. The interview was with the New York Knicks, a historic moment that signified a potential barrier-breaking moment for women in sports.

Staley, a Hall of Famer with a stellar career, has a rich coaching resume. She revitalized Temple University, leading the Owls to six NCAA tournaments and four Atlantic 10 tournament titles, amassing a record of 172-80. Her achievements at South Carolina are even more impressive. She has a record of 475-109 (.812 winning percentage), winning national championships in 2017, 2022, and 2024 while reaching seven Final Fours in the past decade.

In addition to her college success, Staley has also dominated on the international stage. She led Team USA to a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics and compiled a perfect record across multiple stints as head or acting coach. Her coaching skills are not limited to the court, as she has mentored stars such as A'ja Wilson, Aliyah Boston, and Allisha Gray, becoming the first person to win the Naismith Award as both a player and coach.

In 2022, Staley made history again by becoming the first coach ever to beat Geno Auriemma, Tara VanDerveer, and Kim Mulkey in the same season. This feat showcases her ability to compete at the highest level.

Despite her impressive qualifications, Staley was ultimately not offered the head coaching position with the Knicks. Mike Brown was the eventual choice. However, Staley confirmed that she would have accepted the position had it been offered.

Staley's candidacy for the Knicks head coaching position displayed how seriously NBA franchises are beginning to consider elite women's coaches for top positions. Her interview was about more than personal ambition; it was a potential step forward for women in sports.

Other candidates interviewed for the Knicks head coaching position included Taylor Jenkins, James Borrego, and Micah Nori. Despite not securing the position, Staley's historic interview has undoubtedly opened doors for other women coaches in the NBA.

As we move forward, it will be interesting to see if more women follow in Staley's footsteps and pursue coaching positions in the NBA. Her historic interview with the Knicks has set a precedent that could pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive coaching landscape in professional basketball.

Coach Dawn Staley expresses readiness for New York Knicks job, had opportunity presented itself