South Carolina is set to host the inaugural PowHER Player Classic this Thanksgiving weekend, a three‑day showcase of women’s basketball that brings together North Carolina Central, Alabama A&M and Tennessee State at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia.
The tournament will be woven with community‑service initiatives on Thursday, an NIL Marketplace, and a Culture Night Kickoff Dinner on Friday, all organized by Rae Rose Media, a firm dedicated to turning athlete visibility into lasting economic value.
Staley’s Vision for Inclusive Growth
Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks’ head coach, framed the event as more than a competition. “We want to make sure no player is left behind,” she said, emphasizing that the classic is designed to expand access and create tangible pathways for young women in basketball.
The series carries historical weight. South Carolina holds a 3‑0 record against North Carolina Central and a 2‑0 edge over Alabama A&M in NCAA Tournament meetings, while coaching ties link the programs — Olivia Gaines once played for South Carolina, and Tennessee State’s Candice Dupree developed under Staley at Temple.
Jacob Coltrane, a Tigers assistant, adds another layer of connection, having served as a graduate assistant at South Carolina from 2018 to 2020, underscoring the alumni networks that bind these institutions.
A Platform for Exposure and Earnings
Beyond the games, the PowHER Player Classic offers HBCU athletes high‑profile competition, direct sponsor exposure and opportunities to boost their earning potential through name, image and likeness deals. Tournament games are also bundled into South Carolina’s season‑ticket packages, with single‑session tickets slated for release later in the season.
Rae Rose Media’s broader mission is to help women athletes convert visibility into lasting value. Through educational sessions and networking, the organization aims to equip players with the tools to sustain and grow their careers beyond the court.