Dawn Staley Sends Clear Message to Top Prospect on Friday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Max Escarpio | Last updated May 31, 2025 12:24 AM ET

South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley capped off another incredible college basketball season leading the program to the national title game.

Staley helped push South Carolina to a deep run in the postseason, defeating some of the most talented teams in the tournament.

They ultimately suffered a loss to the UConn Huskies in the national title game.

After the season, Staley took the time to credit one of the top college basketball prospects, making her name known in both the men's and women's basketball scene.

Columbia, South Carolina native Mase Collins has been named to the United State junior men's basketball team in the U16 division.

"From Columbia, South Carolina... No. 7 @mase_collins14," posted the United States junior national team social media account.

Staley sent a message on Collins, showing high praise for one of the biggest stars in the underclassman high school division.

"We see you Mase!!!" Staley said. "Let’s get it!!! Red, white and blue looks great on you!!"

We see you Mase!!! Let’s get it!!! Red, white and blue looks great on you!! https://t.co/paieUUqBwU
— dawnstaley (@dawnstaley) May 31, 2025

According to a social media post by Slam High School, Collins is rated as a five-star prospect. He competed for Chris Paul's official EYBL team in the U15 division.

While Collins has yet to be ranked, given his status in the 2028 high school class, he has not been listed in the 247Sports, Rivals or ESPN rankings.

Dawn Staley has made a major name for herself in the Columbia, South Carolina community. After taking over as the head coach at South Carolina in 2008, Staley led the Gamecocks to three national titles, seven Final Four appearances, nine SEC regular-season titles and nine SEC Tournament titles.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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