Columbia, SC — April 12, 2025
Fresh off the most stunning NIL move in college basketball history—securing a blockbuster partnership with UConn legend Paige Bueckers—sources are now predicting South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley is far from done.
According to insiders, Staley’s next bold move could involve Kansas State’s Serena Sundell, as she looks to build a women’s basketball empire powered by high-profile NIL collaborations.
“The Paige deal wasn’t just about one player—it was a statement,” said a source close to the South Carolina program. “And the next name on Staley’s list is rumored to be the top talent coming out of Kansas State.”
Sundell, a 6’2″ guard, has had an impressive collegiate career with the Wildcats, earning multiple All-Big 12 honors and setting the program’s all-time assist record. Her leadership and on-court vision have made her a standout player in the Big 12 Conference.
Analysts believe she could be the perfect next face of what’s being dubbed the “Staley Superteam Initiative”, a media-savvy NIL campaign aimed at elevating the profile of women’s college basketball across the country.
“This isn’t recruiting. It’s brand-building at the highest level,” said an NIL consultant familiar with the situation. “Dawn’s turning the Gamecocks into the NBA of college hoops—and she’s pulling stars from every direction.”
Though no official contact has been confirmed, the prediction alone has sent shockwaves through Kansas State’s fan base, with speculation running wild on social media. One fan tweeted:
“First Paige. Now K-State? Dawn Staley is not playing fair anymore.”
If the prediction comes true, South Carolina could field the most marketable, talent-packed women’s team in NCAA history—without ever needing a transfer portal.
College hoops may never be the same.
