Dawn Staley Honors Young Cancer Patient With Meaningful Necklace at ESPY Awards 2024

At the 2024 ESPY Awards on Thursday, Dawn Staley received the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance, honoring her support and fight for equality in women’s sports and her leadership in the battle against cancer.

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For the event, the coach of the national champion South Carolina women’s basketball team wore a black sequin top with short sleeves and a modest neckline. Her high-waisted black trousers, tailored with a wide-leg cut, offered a sophisticated silhouette that complemented her sequin top.

Staley accessorized with a vibrant, multicolored bead necklace . The accessory, which the coach has been seen wearing since June, was made by a young girl named Blakely, who is battling cancer. Staley met Blakely at the UVA Children’s Hospital through her partnership with Aflac.

Staley also wore black studded shoes, which added an edgy twist to her outfit. Her choice of black-framed glasses completed her look for the evening.

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Staley’s choice of necklace has a deeper meaning. Her friend, Tennessee standout Nikki McCray-Penson, passed away from breast cancer, and Staley’s sister was diagnosed with leukemia. These personal experiences motivated Staley to become an advocate for cancer research.

Staley’s recognition at the ESPYS underscores her role in advocating for equality and her leadership in sports.

The ESPY, Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly, Awards honor the best athletes in sports from the WNBA, MLB, UFC and more. Coco Gauff , Caitlin Clark and Patrick Mahomes are among the 2024 ESPY Awards high-profile nominees. 23-time Grand Slam champion and ESPY Award recipient Serena Williams will serve as host for the evening’s ceremony at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles.

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