South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley has another former player following in her footsteps and becoming a head coach. Tennessee State announced on Thursday evening that Candice Dupree has been hired as the head coach of the women's basketball program. Dupree takes the reins of the Tigers after a decorated 16-year career in the WNBA and two years as an assistant for the San Antonio Spurs.

“I am thrilled to welcome Candice Dupree to the coaching ranks in women's college basketball,” said Staley in a quote obtained by Tennessee State. “I commend TSU President Dr. Glenda Glover and Dr. Allen for choosing someone who I know has excelled at every level – as a standout collegiate and professional basketball player, as well as an NBA coach. Dupree's hiring will further elevate the women's college basketball game.”

Staley served as head coach of the Temple University Lady Owls from 2000-2008 and Dupree played under her from 2002-2006. She ranks second all-time at TU in field goal percentage (51.4%), sixth in scoring (1,698), fifth in rebounds (968), and is tied for second in blocked shots (218). In recognition of her outstanding achievements, Dupree was inducted into the Temple Athletics Hall of Fame in 2016. Temple retired her jersey, making her the second player to receive this honor.

During her time as a player, the team achieved significant success. Temple secured three conference titles, triumphed in 73 games – a record 25 consecutive wins, and remained in the national rankings for 27 consecutive weeks.

Staley has seen immense success from her former players. Several former Temple and South Carolina players in Dawn Staley's tenure have seen immense success in their professional careers on the court and on the sidelines. Former South Carolina player Olivia Gaines has also been hired to coach HBCU women's basketball, this time at Allen University.

“Allen has been a dream job for a long time, and I am looking forward to continuing my career in my home state,” Gaines said in March upon being hired in the position “I would like to thank our Director of Athletics Jasher Cox and President Dr. McNealy for believing in me as they are leading Allen University in the right direction. The culture is there but winning consistently has been the missing piece and that will soon change. I am overwhelmed with joy but prepared for the job.”

Staley had nothing but positive things to say about Gaines's hire.

“Olivia Gaines has built a resume that would allow her to coach anywhere in the country. Her choice to come back to South Carolina and Allen University makes this a special union. I'm excited to see her back in Columbia, and I can't wait to see her program thrive.”

Staley's coaching legacy is surely segmented but her impact on women's basketball via her former players will surely be felt for years to come.