LeBron James: Protect Dawn Staley at all costs

South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley achieved her third national championship win for the Gamecocks on Sunday, defeating Iowa 87-75 in a rematch of last year’s Final Four while also becoming just the ninth head coach (men’s or women’s) to lead a team on an undefeated national championship run.

Staley has become one of the most beloved head coaches in the sport. With everything from her iconic outfits, to her personality and sound bites, and her championship success making many fans of hers. Which induces NBA legend LeBron James.

James was clearly locked in on the women’s national championship game after tweeting about Iowa star Caitlin Clark during Sunday’s game. But after the game, James also showed some love and gave his flowers to Staley. Giving some high praise to the beloved head coach following her most recent national championship win.

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“Protect Dawn Staley AT ALL COST!! No if, ands or buts!” James tweeted Sunday followed by a locked padlock and salute emoji.

Staley was filled with emotion following Sunday’s national championship game. Needing a moment to collect herself in her postgame interview as tears filled her eyes and she gave plenty of praise to God. But Staley continued to show how much of a class act she truly is after also giving some praise to Iowa’s superstar Caitlin Clark after the win.

“I really would just like to say that I have to congratulate Iowa on an incredible season,” Staley said. “Awesome. Awesome. And I want to personally thank Caitlin Clark for lifting up our sport. She carried a heavy load for our sport and it just is not going to stop here on the collegiate tour, but when she is the No. 1 pick in the WNBA Draft, she’s going to lift that league up as well.”

“So Caitlin Clark, if you’re out there, you are one of the GOATs of our game,” Staley added. “We appreciate you.”

Clark has been the subject of a persisting debate as of late about her status as the greatest women’s basketball player of all time, a question that Staley herself was even asked about prior to the national championship. But following the national championship she chose to use her platform to elevate her opponent and provide a heartfelt sentiment regarding her legacy that speaks volumes.

Real recognizes real, as James himself continues to use his platform to elevate and spark more dialogue surrounding women’s basketball.