Beyoncé has cultivated one of the world's largest fan bases, known as the “BeyHive,” primarily on social media.
But the Houston-born singer sometimes takes time away from her career to become a fan. On Wednesday, South Carolina women's basketball coach Dawn Staley shared a letter and gift she received from Beyoncé after her program's undefeated season and 2024 NCAA Tournament national championship. Staley became the first black coach to lead a team to an undefeated season in Division I college basketball when the Gamecocks defeated Caitlin Clark and Iowa in the national championship game.
“To Coach Staley and the South Carolina Shamcocks, my family and I have watched and cheered on your games all season. I am so proud of you, my love,” Beyoncé wrote in the letter ( Staley) on her X account (formerly Twitter).
After reading the letter, Staley motioned to someone behind him to “hit,” at which point “Texas Hold'em,” a song from Beyoncé's new album “Cowboy Carter,” began to play. Staley went on to thank Beyoncé, her husband (Jay-Z, aka Shawn Carter), and their children Blue Ivy, Sir, and Rumi.
“That's B. That's B. That's B and his family,” Staley said excitedly. “Yes, Mr. Carter. Yes, Blue, good work, Blue. Sir and Rumi. B, thank you! I appreciate it. It's an honor to wear your equipment.”
Beyonce's message to South Carolina women's basketball player Dawn Staley
Staley shared a video of herself reading a letter from Beyoncé and a gift from the artist. Staley was born in Philadelphia, where she attended the University of Virginia, where she played in the WNBA. She was hired as South Carolina's coach in 2008 after a career in which she was a six-time All-Star in the WNBA, where she coached at Temple.
“It says 'Always Country,'” Staley said, pointing to a T-shirt sent to her by Beyoncé, who was sitting next to her. “Well, guess what? I've been in the South for 16 years. I'm a small country too. Thanks to you, her B. Keep inspiring. We love you.”