Alaina Coates Rejoins South Carolina Gamecocks as Assistant Coach and Player Development Advisor, Citing Two Personal Motivations for Her Comeback
In a heartfelt homecoming that blends legacy, leadership, and loyalty, former South Carolina women’s basketball star Alaina Coates is returning to Columbia in a new role—as Assistant Coach and Player Development Advisor under legendary head coach Dawn Staley. For fans of Gamecock Nation, Coates’ return marks not just a strategic move for the program but an emotional full-circle moment for one of its most beloved players.
The announcement was made Friday morning through the University’s athletics department, and within minutes, tributes poured in from fans, alumni, and former teammates. Coates, who starred for South Carolina from 2013 to 2017 and played a key role in establishing the Gamecocks as a national powerhouse, now comes home with a fresh mission: to mentor the next generation and give back to the program that shaped her.
And she’s not shy about why she made this move.
“It’s about family, and it’s about growth,” Coates said in an exclusive press release. “South Carolina is where I became who I am. I’m returning for two personal reasons: first, to give back to the place that gave me everything, and second, to honor the people who helped me rise—especially Coach Staley, who’s been more than a coach to me.”
Alaina Coates’ career as a Gamecock was nothing short of remarkable. A four-time All-SEC selection, the 6-foot-4 center helped propel South Carolina to four SEC championships and their first-ever No. 1 national ranking. Her dominance in the paint, rebounding prowess, and team-first mentality made her a cornerstone of the Gamecock dynasty that would go on to win the 2017 national title—though Coates heartbreakingly missed that tournament run due to injury.
Drafted second overall in the 2017 WNBA Draft by the Chicago Sky, Coates went on to play in the WNBA and overseas. While her pro career saw its ups and downs—partly due to injuries—she became known for her toughness, poise, and ability to battle through adversity.
Now, Coates brings that same resilience to the bench.
Dawn Staley, who has built one of the most respected programs in all of women’s basketball, didn’t hesitate to welcome Coates back to the family.
“Alaina has always been a student of the game,” Staley said. “She’s got the knowledge, the heart, and the fire to help these young women not just as athletes but as people. This isn’t just a hire—it’s a reunion. And it’s powerful.”
Staley emphasized that Coates’ role will be multifaceted, focusing heavily on player development, with an emphasis on post play, conditioning, and emotional intelligence on and off the court.
“When someone has been through what Alaina has—success, injury, recovery, the WNBA grind—they bring perspective,” Staley added. “And our players need that kind of wisdom.”
In her public statement, Coates cited two key personal reasons for her return.
1. Giving Back to Her Roots
Coates was born and raised in South Carolina. Returning to her home state in a leadership role carries deep meaning.
“This is the court where I found myself. The fans here have supported me since day one. I feel like I owe them everything,” she said.
As a Black woman who found mentorship, growth, and empowerment through the Gamecock program, Coates sees this role as a chance to “pay it forward” and model that journey for others. She believes the culture Staley has created—especially for young Black women in sport—is rare and sacred.
“We talk about family here—and it’s not a slogan. It’s real,” Coates emphasized.
Coates also made it clear that this return is about honoring those who shaped her—especially Coach Dawn Staley.
“Coach believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself,” she said. “She challenged me. Loved me. Pushed me. I’m here to honor that trust—and to continue her legacy.”
She also mentioned former teammates and staffers who helped her through injuries and setbacks, saying, “This isn’t just my story—it’s all of ours.”
From a basketball standpoint, this hire makes a lot of sense. Coates knows the system. She knows the expectations. And most importantly, she knows the culture.
Her experience playing professionally in the U.S. and overseas brings a worldly perspective to young players, many of whom aspire to WNBA careers or international opportunities. She also brings practical knowledge of recovery, load management, and self-care—topics increasingly prioritized in modern player development.
Her leadership is expected to be particularly impactful for South Carolina’s young post players, who will benefit directly from her elite-level training and mentorship.
Social media lit up after the announcement, with the Gamecock community expressing joy and excitement over Coates’ return.
Former teammate A’ja Wilson tweeted:
“Welcome home, sis!! Can’t wait to see you continue to inspire 💪🏾🖤 #Gamecock4Life”
Current Gamecock players shared similar sentiments. Sophomore center Kamilla Cardoso posted, “Blessed to learn from one of the greats 🙏🏽.”
Even South Carolina’s athletic director Ray Tanner weighed in:
“This is a powerful addition to our program. Alaina represents excellence, strength, and commitment—exactly what we stand for.”
As the Gamecocks prepare for another season with national title aspirations, the addition of Alaina Coates only strengthens an already elite coaching staff.
But beyond tactics and scouting, this move represents something bigger. It’s about continuity. It’s about legacy. It’s about the unbreakable bond between a player and her program.
“I’m back where I belong,” Coates said. “And I’m ready to help these women chase greatness—just like I did.”
In a world where so many players move on and never look back, Alaina Coates chose to come home. Not for glory. Not for attention. But for love, loyalty, and legacy.
And South Carolina women’s basketball is all the stronger for it.
