At the ESPY Awards on July 11, South Carolina’s esteemed basketball head coach, Dawn Staley, received the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance.
In her acceptance speech, Staley seized the moment to address the ongoing issue of pay disparity in sports, stating that despite her successes, she is paid less than her male counterparts.
Fresh from an undefeated season and securing her third NCAA Championship with the South Carolina Gamecocks, Staley used her platform to spotlight the pay gap that persists in athletics.
“I do the same job and get paid less but win more,” she stated, drawing attention to the inequity faced by women in sports.
Staley, a former WNBA player and now a highly successful coach, has consistently been a vocal advocate for gender equity. Her speech resonated with the spirit of the Jimmy V Award, which honors individuals who have triumphed over adversity.
Staley’s advocacy extends beyond her achievements on the court; it’s about the broader fight for fairness and equal pay for women.
Reflecting on her influence as a mentor and leader for the Gamecocks, Staley underscored the importance of fighting injustice.
“How do I not fight injustice when I ask them to do things the right way? How do I not fight for fairness when I ask them not to cheat themselves? How do I not fight for equity when I tell them they can climb as high as they want, they can be all that they want,” she passionately expressed.
Despite being one of the most recognizable and accomplished figures in basketball, Staley’s compensation does not reflect her contributions and victories.
She urged for a change, not just for herself but for the future generations she mentors:
“How do I not fight pay disparity when I do the same job and get paid less but win more? I can’t ask them to stand up for themselves if I’m sitting down. Nor can I ask them to use their voice for change if I’m only willing to whisper.”
Staley’s powerful words at the ESPYs served as a call to action, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to achieve gender equality in sports.
