Dawn Staley shares wholesome message for North Carolina native Mason Collins following Team USA selection
South Carolina Gamecocks coach Dawn Staley is one of the most respected coaches in women's basketball. As a result, when someone gets an endorsement or shout-out from her, it is a moment to savour.
On Friday, USA Basketball announced its U16 squad, with North Carolina native Mason Collins a notable inclusion.
Shortly after the news was announced, Staley hopped on X with a wholesome message for the young player.
"We see you Mase!!!" Staley wrote. "Let’s get it!!! Red, white and blue looks great on you!!"
Collins is only 15 and is several years away from being able to start his college career. According to 247Sports and ESPN, he is from Arden, North Carolina, despite the indication from the X post that he is from South Carolina. He will be eligible to start his college career with the class of 2028.
The rest of the USA U16 squad is as follows, according to the USAB website:
- Nasir Anderson, G
- Bechham Black, G
- Mason Collins, G/F
- Erik Dampier Jr, C
- Colton Hiller, F/G
- Bentley Lusakueno, F/C
- Kameron Mercer, F
- Jordan Page, F/G
- CJ Rosser, F
- Shalen Sheppard, F/C
- Marcus Spears Jr, F
- AJ Williams, F/G
Dawn Staley receives a shoutout from Magic Johnson
While Dawn Staley is a big figure in the basketball world, her popularity pales in comparison to Hall of Famer Magic Johnson. Staley released her new book, "Uncommon Favor: Basketball, North Philly, My Mother, and the Life Lessons I Learned from All Three," on May 20. On Tuesday, Johnson received a copy from Staley and thanked her on X.
"Thank you Coach Dawn Staley for gifting me a copy of your new book Uncommon Favor!" Johnson wrote. "Congratulations and keep blessing the world."
Staley was quick to respond.
"It’s all love Magic!!" Staley wrote. "Thank you for your leadership in every space you have touch! Keep leading! Keep smiling! Keep being magically you!!!"
While Staley has kept busy this offseason, she is preparing for the next college basketball season. Her South Carolina Gamecocks are once again expected to contend for the national championship. They lost in the national championship game to the UConn Huskies this year, ending their hopes of winning their third championship in four years.