Uncommon Favor: Basketball, North Philly, My Mother, and the Life Lessons I Learned from All Three

by Dawn Staley

INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

For the first time, Dawn Staley shares powerful and inspiring stories that have shaped her journey on and off the court.

A three-time Olympic gold medalist, six-time WNBA All-Star, and the first person to win the Naismith College Player of the Year award as both a player and coach, Staley has shattered expectations at every level of the game. While her name resonates with both longtime WNBA fans and newcomers, she has kept her personal life private.

Uncommon Favor reveals the journey that led to Staley’s success, including the challenges she faced. From dealing with sexism on the court to feeling isolated in new environments, Staley honed her skills and learned valuable life lessons about mental fortitude and maturity that have grounded her throughout her career. Beginning with her humble origins on the North Philadelphia basketball court and her rise to national fame at the University of Virginia—where she led her team to three Final Fours—Staley recounts the key moments that shaped her winning mindset.

Staley’s iconic career in the WNBA and her groundbreaking coaching journey at the University of South Carolina highlight the milestones and turning points that have defined her success, both on and off the court. Fearless and authentic, Uncommon Favor shares the rewards of leading with conviction and the courage to redefine the limits of what is possible.

Genres: Sports, Memoir, Nonfiction, Audiobook, Basketball, Biography, Womens

256 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 20, 2025

Reviews

[Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so good!! I laughed, cried, learned, and even gasped a few times. Dawn being a true crime fan?? Couldn’t believe it 😂 not in my books! What really stood out was how much she values community and mentorship — it’s clear she believes in pouring into the next generation. She shares real lessons from her childhood and life, and you can feel how selfless she is throughout the whole book. She gives people their flowers while they’re here and doesn’t play about showing up for others.

[Gemini · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Needed This

This book spoke to my love of women’s basketball, North Philly, and my alma mater, Temple University. So many things that Dawn talked about touched my heart. I never expected to be choked up throughout the whole book. Over the years, I’ve watched Dawn be so charismatic and engaging as the head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks. I’ve been envious. We didn’t get that mature, outgoing version of her when she was coaching at my school. Her candor in this book about her shyness and social quirks helped me to understand why she wasn’t as approachable as we wanted her to be. Especially while she was juggling a WNBA career and coaching a D1 basketball team. I have a newfound respect (and love) for her. I devoured this book in one sitting. I absolutely loved it.

[whatjordanreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Uncommon Favor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
📚 Memoir
🎶 2001: A Space Odyssey - Johnson Williams

One sentence synopsis:
Renowned basketball player and coach, Dawn Staley’s memoir of her life and the lessons she learned along the way.

Book Review:
I’m going to be honest with you, I don’t know if I would have loved this book as much as I did if I was not a South Carolinian and a Gamecock fan. But I am, so here we are.

I’m not a huge basketball follower. If Dawn Staley was the G.O.A.T. coaching some other basketball team across the country, I honestly might not know who she is. I would definitely not have read this book. And that would’ve been a damn shame.

I feel like there’s something special about learning about someone else’s story and their rise to greatness. It kind of makes you feel like a little bit of sparkle rubs off on you somehow. That’s the way I felt after I finished this book… a little sparkly.

In case you don’t know, Dawn Staley is one of the greatest basketball players and coaches of all time. Her list of accolades is honestly so long the Instagram caption limit would not let me post them all. Just know it includes multiple Olympic gold medals national championship titles just to name a few.

I feel like Dawn has such a unique voice and it really comes out in this book. She has such an open and honest approach to life and coaching that is so refreshing. She makes me want to travel back in time and become a good enough basketball player just so I could possibly get the chance to have her be my coach. But unfortunately I’m 5’1”, and time travel isn’t real (yet).

If you’re not a gamecock fan, you’re not South Carolinian, or if you’re not a basketball fan then I don’t know if you’re gonna like this or if you’d even be interested. All I know was I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Thanks for picking USC Dawn!

✨Thank you @atriabooks for my #gifted copy!

[Krissy Anthonsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Didn’t think I could love Dawn anymore than I already do.

[Lucia · Rating 5 out of 5]

LISTEN TO THIS AS AN AUDIOBOOK! Something I would never say if it weren’t this case: Dawn Staley narrating her own life. Her passion and humor and humility shine through, and I laughed and cried and nodded along. This is a must for Gamecock fans, but any Philadelphian, South Carolinian, or fan of women’s basketball (which should be everyone!) would especially appreciate this. I loved learning about her contributions to the sport and to gender equity overall—highest paid women’s college basketball coach IN THE COUNTRY! And such a huge impact on the development of the WNBA! And the skyrocketing growth of women's college basketball! I started listening to this in Philly and finished tonight in South Carolina, which was beautifully how the book went, but she weaves between her different experiences. Listening to it felt like I was getting a personal motivational podcast in the best way. Fans will love hearing about 2017 and how she has uplifted Columbia, and the city’s Black community in particular. She makes me so proud to have grown up here—and to have grown up watching this team. (The chapter on her dog was a great bonus). And: “The path to fulfillment is through work that lights you up. You want a life that means something.” The book is full of commentary on knowing your self-worth and how to use it to lift up those around you. Thank you Coach!!!!!!

[Wendy De · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the insights shared throughout this book and am glad to have read it. I am a big fan of Dawn Staley and her epic contributions to the game of basketball, her unapologetic advocacy for all women, and her never ending desire to make positive contributions to all whom she encounters. I also appreciate her confidence while also being very humble. This and more is conveyed in the book. My caveat is that I feel there is a need for an editor to help smooth it out a bit.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did not think it was possible to admire this woman more than I already did but alas, it’s been multiplied. She is such an inspiration for grit, speaking up loudly about injustices, standing firm in her convictions and pushing back against any and all societal “norms”. She shows up for her people, is an incredible role model, protector and advocate for the women she coaches. She sees the human experience as one of growth and the beauty in growing and learning together. Although basketball fans and coaches may appreciate this book more because of the history she revisits with USA Women’s Basketball and the start of the WNBA, it’s not limited to that audience. If you’re a leader, an injustice fighter, a role model to youth…read and digest every word! ♥️

[Logan Kankel]

Like I needed a book to confirm how great she is.

[Sharon :) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read! I never realized all Dawn advocated for. Admire her courage!

[Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The GOAT

[Mary K · Rating 4 out of 5]

really liked this, especially ahead of my own coaching season >:+) she is very no nonsense, which creates a story with very little nuance - but by the end I didn’t really mind that

[Erica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did not know much about Dawn Staley before picking up this book aside from her notable wins at USC.

I could feel how laid-back, down to earth, and real she is through the writing. I’ve never met her or heard her speak in person, but I felt like I was reading this in her voice. It felt extremely genuine.

I do think there were significant portions of this book that were targeted more toward an audience of young coaches and athletes (not me!). Still, it was a good read, and there were lots of other life lessons and advice that I found to be inspirational and motivational.

[Cozy Puppy Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawn Staley's Uncommon Favor is far more than a memoir; it's a powerful read about empowerment, leadership, and unwavering self-worth, perfect for female athletes, coaches, and anyone passionate about women's sports. This book is an absolute must-read, delivering an inspiring narrative that feels both deeply personal and universally relevant. Throughout its pages, one of the most powerful quotes that has stuck with me is, "Dreams delayed are not dreams denied," instilling a profound sense of hope and perseverance.

One of the book's most profound strengths lies in Staley's honest discussions about women in sports. She unflinchingly addresses persistent disparities, including the pay gap, and champions the critical importance of knowing your worth and advocating for greater opportunities. Her words serve as a rallying cry, with powerful sentiments like, "To erase our value is to suggest to every woman, you have no right to believe in your own significance."
Staley masterfully navigates the highs and lows of her athletic journey, from her beginnings in North Philly to her illustrious career as an athlete and her impactful transition into coaching at the University of South Carolina. Her philosophy of actively choosing to be an "architect, not an arsonist" shines through, demonstrating a deep commitment to building up, investing in, and mentoring the next generation of female athletes. She emphasizes the invaluable lessons of teamwork, being a dedicated team player, and true leadership, often reminding readers that, "You have to do what you don't want to do to get what you want."

Beyond the powerful messages, the book is infused with delightful personal touches. Listening to the audiobook, narrated by Staley herself (a true highlight!), offers an intimate experience. Her quirky love for true crime adds a relatable charm, and her heartfelt gushing about dogs, highlighting their loyalty and ability to live in the moment, beautifully illustrates her warmth and grounded perspective.

Towards the end, Uncommon Favor delves into deeper themes, confronting systemic racism and discrimination that she, her family, and her players have endured. This unflinching honesty adds another layer of depth, making the book a testament to resilience and the fight for justice.

Published by Simon & Schuster Audio, Uncommon Favor is an incredibly empowering read. It's a testament to the power of perseverance, self-belief, and the unwavering commitment to uplifting others. Highly recommended for anyone seeking inspiration, particularly those who are passionate about women's sports and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.

[Kristy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawn Staley is a legend in my house. I’m a University of Virginia girl since birth, and I remember being in awe of Dawn since I was a kid.

Reading her autobiography only enforced that tenfold. This is such a great book. Dawn writes in such an engaging, conversational style—I flew through this. Each chapter in UNCOMMON FAVOR centers around a lesson she’s learned in her life. She's led such a remarkable life, coming from the Philly projects to high school stardom to UVA and the Final Four to the pros to Olympics championships and then to her famous coaching gigs. I also had no idea about some of the twists and turns her life took; her story is incredibly motivational. Yet she remains true to her roots and a steadfast supporter of the women she coaches and what she believes in.

While you’ll love this if you like basketball or sports, the book is applicable to all areas of life, and I highlighted so many quotes. I think this one should be mandatory reading for leaders, or those aspiring to leadership positions.

[DC_Shellz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Philly Phillie

Yes a play on words for the horse that's winning. After reading Coach Dawn is now my more favorite Basketball Heroine. She is doing it and living it, to be able to testify to it . I would bet on this horse every time to show, place, and win.
The fact that she also idolized my all time favorite shooting point guard Allen Iverson, the original AI.
Basketball saved her, allowed her to thrive. She stringer than I was able to fight that parental stigma of you won't get anywhere playing basketball. Yes , as the same age, there wasn't life in basketball after college for women. Very few scholarships. I was forced to quit. But still played and had hoop dreams.
Basketball carved a path, A journey, God does work through everyone and differently. You see her, you read this, what you know about just her you now learn her. Even in writing this, you see the miracles bestowed upon you.

A necessary read.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a basketball fan, women or men, college, preferably SEC. With that being said I’ve respected and admired Dawn Staley for many years. When South Carolina plays I watch.

She’s a private person. This book tells of her family, life as a child growing up in the projects of Philly, playing basketball in HS, college and the WNBA, and coaching.

I admire and respect her for boldness in her faith, her love of family, her calm presence on the sideline, and her honesty in “telling it like it is.”

She pours into the young women she coaches, winning is great, but she wants to teach them about life, and what happens after BB.

On a personal note the title, Uncommon Favor made me pause and think about my life. I’ve also been shown “Uncommon Favor”, and don’t need to take it for granted. Acknowledge and give thanks!

I listened to the audio read by the author. An excellent book!

[G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall:
Legendary coach Dawn Staley shares life lessons in a humble and uplifting voice, encouraging the reader to go out and be their best selves.

What I enjoyed:
- The texture of the book jacket for the hardcover replicates a basketball.
- Coach Staley comes across as incredibly humble, down-to-earth, and positive. She knows her worth, isn't afraid to take up space, and sets an example for strong women everywhere.
- It feels like she's coaching the reader, with each chapter being a life lesson.
- One of her most impressive feats has got to be simultaneously playing in the WNBA, training on team USA, AND head coaching Temple's women's basketball. That level of excellence is amazing.
- She acknowledges how she's changed up her way of coaching and gave examples (i.e. moving away from her social media ban).
- I hope to have the nerve to stand up to unkind people the way Coach Staley did to Mizzou's AD, Mr. Sterk - when she filed a defamation suit and won.
- I also read this in anticipation of a book launch event with Coach Staley, and at the event, she largely mirrored what was told within these pages. Like real-life, she's vocal about her truth, and while she's tough (aka has high standards), she's also seems kind, which is carried throughout her book as well.

What I didn’t enjoy:
- At first, I was a bit thrown off by how the stories skipped around instead of being chronological.
- At only 237 pages, some of the stories could have been expanded upon, though I could appreciate her no-nonsense approach to writing and quick drive to the heart of each story as well.

Favorite quotes:
"When I think back on the random life intersections like the one that brought Coach Chaney and me together, they feel in some ways preordained. The luck or grace that Coach Chaney happened to stop and watch me, and the opportunities that sprang from that moment, were kind of uncommon favor."

"There are all types of wins that change lives in profound ways. Most of them don't come with trophies."

"We all fail all the time. Genius once-in-a-generation players fail all the time. Great leaders fail all the time. Pros fail all the time. The solution is to go home, take stock, press yourself on what you can do better, and try again. A loss reminds you what your standards are."

"It's key to assemble a team that allows you to be authentic, so no energy is wasted with pretense."

"When you become a part of other people's history, you carry it in your heart. It sustains you. Bringing those opportunities to other people. The dream merchant of it all."

"These days, young people often only want to see the good they've done. They don't want to register anything that needs improvement. In basketball, and in their daily life, they'll veer away from the bad stuff, create blind spots. 'I don't want to look over there. I don't want to acknowledge what's happening here.' Our job [as coaches] is to reveal a little peek of it, so they ascertain nothing is as terrible as it seems."

"The value of meeting folks where they are is not only immeasurable but practical."

"I want you to go through a breakup. I want you to have a crappy game. I want you to bomb a test To be challenged physically, mentally, spiritually. To find yourself stuck in a bad month or even a bad season, because from those moments, growth takes place."

--

Book event read

[Melissa Gilbreth · Rating 5 out of 5]

“May your belief in yourself be greater than anyone else’s disbelief” - Coach Dawn Staley

This was an incredible book. I listened every morning while getting ready and Coach Staley was the perfect way to start my day this past month. I’ve had the honor of meeting her more than once and I’m grateful to live in a suburb of Columbia. Her presence and dedication is felt everywhere. She even speaks at local schools including my daughter’s 5th grade graduation from elementary school several years ago!! I highly recommend listening to the audiobook of Uncommon Favor as she reads it!!

[Jon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though I'm biased because I've loved Dawn Staley from the moment she burst onto the Philly hoops scene, this book is exceptional! As a high school English teacher, I had to adjust my expectations for her writing style, which is very much in her voice (and presentation). Though there are a few things that I was already familiar with, there are tons of anecdotes (like the situation with the athletic director from the University of Missouri) and lessons that are eye opening.

[Anna Osborne · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible insight into a trailblazer in so many arenas of life. Dawn Staley is an icon, and inspiration, and personal hero of mine. I loved getting to know more about her as a person, and her thought process through many situations in her life, and learning tidbits I didn’t previously know. This book was full of many lessons and words of wisdom I hope to keep with me for years to come.

[Keirstin McCambridge · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was 100% in Dawn’s voice. It took me a few chapters to get into the flow, but this is truly how memoirs should be. As a fellow Hoo, a women’s basketball fan, and now a Philadelphia fan (thanks marriage), it was beautiful to hear more of her story.

[Maddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iconic!! Loved hearing about how the game has changed throughout the years not only as a player, but as a coach

[sarai · Rating 5 out of 5]

ms staley you are my queen twice over. go cocks baybee

[Kyra Sanborn-Burch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Big Dawn Staley fan

[Tamyka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished the memoir learned so much. Highly recommend.
In progress about 50%ish and am loving this memoir! It's so good!

[Emmi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been a Dawn Staley fan since she was playing for UVA. So I enjoyed hearing her story read by her. The “lessons” format made it different from other memoirs, and while I found it a bit much at times, it felt so authentically her.

[Pallavi · Rating 4 out of 5]

RATING: 3.75/5 STARS

[Paige Davoren · Rating 5 out of 5]

As if I needed more reasons to love Dawn Staley 🥹 this book made me emotional

[Susanne McMurrer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listened on audiobook read by Coach Staley.

[Annaliese Schreder · Rating 5 out of 5]

No one will ever have as much swag as dawn. I’m also going to buy a Dawn USA basketball jersey