As for coaching, Dawn Staley is not afraid to make difficult decisions. And it is safe to say that one of these solutions changed the trajectory of Sanya Fagin’s career. Staley was reported to hit Fegin with what could only be described as a terrible ultimatum – she was about to be removed from the starting lineup. This is the species that can break a player, but it caused something much more for Fagin.
Instead of accepting his fate, Fegin reports a private Staley text, asking for another chance. The message seemed to be the one that Staley was waiting to see from the senior ahead. Because she soon returned to the starting lineup and never looked back.
Gamecock #20 started every game this year. A great contrast from just 2 last season, from 38 games she played. The average point of the point also improved to 7.4 points in the career, along with 4.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists. Fegin has its best season so far and the head coach looks more than pleased.
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“She has not misled any of us” Staley said, according to X, a publication from Lulu Kesen, thinking about Fagin’s impressive answer. It was not just a quick turn-it was a hard-to-win evolution for a player who was fighting for this kind of confidence. And that has shown.
Dawn Staley said she told Sanya Fegin that she was taking her out of the starting lineup. Then Feigin sent her later, asking for another chance.
Fegin never turned out to be the starting lineup.
“She didn’t let any of us release,” Staley said.
– Lulu Kesin (@Lulukesin) January 29, 2025
Earlier this month, junior striker Ashlin Watkins, the best defender of South Carolina, suffered a torn ACL. The future of the season suddenly seemed uncertain. But Staley didn’t have to look for anywhere other than her own starting line. Fegin was ready to enter.
Fegin’s loyalty nourishes her rise as a star of Gamecocks thanks to Dawn Staley
Fegin’s offensive contribution was crucial, but it was her protection that was even more impressive. In a game against Texas A&M, she closed the star Lauren Wayr, holding it only to firing 1 for 9 while blocking two shots. But she didn’t stop there. Fegin continued to set a career with six blocks against Texas. Its impact against LSU was also indisputable. Playing the highest 36 minutes, it was everywhere across the court, recording 12 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 thefts and 3 blocks.
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With all this, it’s easy to understand why Staley praises Fegin. “Feagin is probably one of my most loved players just because she stays with us at a time and day when it’s so easier to leave,”, “ Staley said. “She could start for someone else … That seemed her best effort.”
Fegin’s loyalty to South Carolina has been tested over the years, especially at times when she has not always been a starter. But with the support of her family and Staley’s guidance, she chose to stay and fight for her place. As Staley said, “It’s intuition, loyalty and her parents are great people who wanted her to play more … They knew the talent their daughter had, and knew that if she remained here, we would take it out of her.”
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Feagin now plays a key role in helping Gamecocks stay on top. It is clear that the difficult love he received was exactly what he needed. She has become one of the most reliable players on the list.“I think it will put in a real good position to play on the next level,” Staley is confident.