When they finally reunited after almost two years, South Carolina coach Dawn Staley and NC State guard Saniya Rivers shared an emotional embrace.
However, over the next two days, they may not be the best of friends.
It’s an unusual pairing for Rivers, a 6-foot-1 junior guard who maintains an average of 12.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, and a team-leading 3.8 assists per game for the Wolfpack. On the other side is Staley, the undefeated Gamecocks’ head coach for 16 years. Rivers began her journey in Columbia, entering as the No. 3 player in the 2021 class, as recognized by ESPN HoopGurlz.
But then, she entered the transfer portal. Rivers did not disclose her reasons for leaving South Carolina during her interview on Thursday. In the past, she mentioned that she did not feel like she was the right fit for the program. She referred to herself as “not the piece of the puzzle they were looking for.” However, during the interview, Rivers chose to focus solely on the upcoming game and did not go into further detail. Nevertheless, she emphasized that she maintains a positive relationship with Staley.
According to Rivers, Staley is an amazing individual. They continue to maintain a strong connection and frequently communicate. They congratulate each other on their achievements and extend warm wishes on special occasions like birthdays. In fact, they recently met and shared a heartfelt embrace.
Rivers played a role on the 2022 national championship roster at South Carolina, contributing to the Gamecocks’ second title under Staley. Although she only played for five minutes in the championship game against UConn, she took one shot, unfortunately missing it. Throughout the season, Rivers averaged 2.3 points and 1.4 assists in nearly 13 minutes of game time per game.
NC State coach Wes Moore has been acquainted with Rivers, a native of Wilmington, North Carolina, for several years and has closely observed her during her high school years. As soon as she decided to reconsider her college choices, he wasted no time in expressing his interest.
“I was fully aware of her exceptional qualities,” he expressed. “When Saniya joined our team a year ago, we had a group of experienced players. Initially, she may have been unsure about assuming a leadership role… but now, I believe she recognizes her importance as a leader for us, and we rely on her. This is the essence of coaching. Witnessing their transformation from high school girls to self-assured women is truly inspiring.”
Rivers proved to be a crucial asset throughout the previous season and was recognized for her outstanding performance by earning the ACC sixth player of the year accolade. Her versatility was evident as she made significant contributions on both ends of the court. Notably, her defensive prowess stood out, with impressive averages of 1.8 steals and 1.0 blocks per game.
Staley has been keeping an eye on Rivers and, earlier this week, she mentioned that she continues to have conversations with Rivers and her parents. She feels a sense of pride for all the remarkable achievements the former Gamecock has made in Raleigh.
Dawn Staley, the coach of the South Carolina women’s basketball team, shared that she frequently communicates with one of her former players and her parents through text messages. When the team made it to the Final Four, Staley congratulated them via text. Staley emphasized that once a player becomes a part of their basketball family, whether they stay or transfer, they will always have her as a resource and someone who wants them to succeed.
“I am genuinely proud of Rivers. We were well aware of her exceptional skills as a player.”
Despite the departure of Rivers, Staley expressed her desire for him to remain at South Carolina.
South Carolina head coach, Dawn Staley, expressed her disappointment that the talents of one of her players will not be showcased in a Gamecock uniform. However, she emphasized that the most crucial aspect is that these talents will be on full display at the Final Four. Staley believes that the player’s experience with the team will be beneficial in navigating through this high-level competition, as she is the sole team member who has played at this level and truly comprehends the dedication required for victory.
Rivers praised Moore for her significant contribution towards enhancing her 3-point shot during the last two seasons. She humorously recalled her freshman year at South Carolina, stating that she struggled with her shooting, going as far as saying, “I was like one- or two-for-God knows how many.” (In reality, it was just 1-of-31.)
According to her, Moore allows her to have a lot of freedom in the game. This was one of the reasons she chose to come here. He allows them to play and has helped her develop her game.
Her return to the Final Four, in pursuit of another championship and the accompanying accolades, is a testament to the progress she has made.
“I would absolutely adore having two rings adorning my hand,” she enthusiastically expressed. “It would truly be a delightful sight. My mother currently safeguards my ring in its protective case, and she’s actually encouraging me to acquire another one. If that comes to fruition, I might just have to proudly display both of them.”
Then Rivers smiled and corrected herself, saying, “When it happens.”
