UNCASVILLE, CONNECTICUT - SEPTEMBER 15: Head coach Curt Miller of the Connecticut Sun reacts in the second quarter against the Las Vegas Aces during Game Three of the 2022 WNBA Finals at Mohegan Sun Arena on September 15, 2022 in Uncasville, Connecticut. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Dawn Staley has declined the opportunity to become the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets, citing her reasons.
Various local and national media outlets have floated the idea of South Carolina’s Dawn Staley potentially filling the coaching vacancy for the Charlotte Hornets. What began as mere speculation following Steve Clifford’s departure has evolved into rumors suggesting the NBA franchise’s interest in Staley as a successor. However, Staley clarified during an interview on the “Wes & Walker” show on Sports Radio 92.7 WFNZ in Charlotte that these rumors are unsubstantiated. She asserted that the Hornets haven’t approached her, and she holds no desire to coach in either the NBA or WNBA. Staley emphasized her enduring passion for mentoring young athletes, describing herself as a “dream merchant” for her players. While acknowledging the allure of coaching professional basketball and her penchant for challenges, Staley reaffirmed her commitment to collegiate basketball, stating it as her true calling.
Aside from her geographical proximity to Charlotte and her former tenure with the WNBA’s Charlotte Sting, Staley maintains a strong connection to the city. She joined the Sting in 1999 following her stint in the ABL and played a pivotal role in the team’s journey to the 2001 WNBA Finals, where they faced the Los Angeles Sparks.
Although Staley indicated she would entertain an interview if approached by the Hornets, she clarified that her interest would solely lie in gathering insights to aid other women pursuing head coaching positions in the NBA. Reflecting on her past interview with the Portland Trail Blazers in 2021, where she felt genuinely respected despite not being hired, Staley underscored the importance of sharing information and preparedness for future candidates. Despite her intentions, Staley humorously remarked that even if the Hornets were considering her, they likely wouldn’t be anymore.
