Dawn Staley emerges as possible option in Mavericks head coaching search

The Dallas Mavericks are leaving all options on the table for their head coaching search. According to Christian Clark of The Athletic (subscription needed) they could be considering a groundbreaking option. Dawn Staley, who is the head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, is one of the names to watch in the job cycle.

The article lists five names the new president of operations, Masai Ujiri, and the Mavericks brass are considering. Along with Staley, the Mavericks are considering Spurs assistant Sean Sweeney, Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori, Duke head basketball coach Jon Scheyer, and Trail Blazers interim head coach Tiago Splitter. Staley’s past experience in coaching cycle Apr 2, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley looks on during a press conference at the Final Four National Semifinal Practice at Mortgage Matchup Center.

Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images Staley has earned NBA head coaching buzz in the past. Last summer, according to the article, the New York Knicks interviewed her for their head coach opening after they fired Tom Thibodeau, and Staley said she would’ve accepted the position if offered. More: NBA fans can get piece of Chicago Bulls dynasty with historic auction “I would have had to do it,” Staley said on the “Post Moves” podcast in April.

“Not just for me. For women. To break (that door) open.