Book Summary
In Uncommon Favor: Basketball, North Philly, My Mother, and the Life Lessons I Learned from All Three, Dawn Staley—three-time Olympic gold medalist, Hall of Fame player, and championship-winning coach—opens up about her extraordinary journey. From her humble beginnings in Philadelphia’s Raymond Rosen Manor projects to becoming the highest-paid coach in women’s basketball, Staley’s memoir is a testament to resilience. The book chronicles her rise through the ranks of college basketball at the University of Virginia, her trailblazing WNBA career, and her transformative coaching tenure at the University of South Carolina, all while navigating sexism, isolation, and the pressures of being a Black woman in sports .
Staley’s storytelling is both fearless and introspective, blending personal anecdotes with universal lessons on leadership and perseverance. Readers praise the book for its authenticity, with many noting how Staley’s quiet determination and faith shine through even the most challenging moments. While some critics mention a occasionally reserved tone, the overall consensus is that Uncommon Favor is an inspiring read for athletes, coaches, and anyone striving to overcome adversity .
Key Themes
At its core, Uncommon Favor is about defying limits. Staley revisits her battles with systemic inequities, from fighting for equal pay as a coach to challenging the lack of opportunities for Black women in leadership roles. Her mother, Estelle, emerges as a pivotal figure—a hardworking housecleaner whose dignity and discipline shaped Staley’s ethos. The memoir also delves into the cultural shifts in women’s basketball, highlighting Staley’s role in elevating the sport’s visibility and compensation.
Another recurring theme is the power of community. Staley credits her North Philly neighborhood for fostering her toughness and loyalty, traits that later defined her coaching style. She reflects on how losses—both on and off the court—taught her humility and strategic patience. The book’s most poignant passages explore her return to South Carolina, where her mother’s traumatic past collided with her own legacy-building, creating a full-circle narrative of healing and purpose.
What Makes It Unique
Unlike many sports memoirs, Uncommon Favor avoids clichés by focusing on introspection over accolades. Staley’s vulnerability about her introversion—a rarity in a field dominated by extroverted personalities—adds depth. Her account of negotiating equal pay without an agent, relying instead on a lawyer who shared her vision, underscores her innovative approach to advocacy. The book also stands out for its candid critiques, such as her pointed remarks about Tara VanDerveer’s harsh coaching methods during the 1996 Olympics.
The memoir’s structure, framed as life lessons (e.g., “Do what you don’t want to do to get what you want”), resonates with readers seeking practical wisdom. Staley’s Philadelphia roots infuse the narrative with a distinctive voice, blending street-smart pragmatism with spiritual reflection. Rarely do sports memoirs balance play-by-play action with such rich cultural commentary, making this a standout for both basketball fans and social justice advocates .
Reader Reactions
Early reviews highlight the book’s emotional impact. One reader on Goodreads called it “a love letter to North Philly,” while another noted, “Staley’s journey mirrors my own—proof that greatness isn’t about where you start” :cite[1]. Critics at Kirkus praised its “winningly direct” tone, though some wished for more vivid descriptions of pivotal games :cite[2]. On NPR, Staley’s interview about the book sparked conversations about pay equity, with listeners applauding her refusal to “shut up and dribble” .
The memoir has particularly resonated with women coaches and young athletes. A Barnes & Noble reviewer wrote, “Her chapter on rebuilding South Carolina’s program from scratch should be required reading for leaders.” Meanwhile, detractors—though few—felt certain segments glossed over complexities, like her brief mention of health struggles. Overall, the book’s 4.5-star average rating reflects its broad appeal .
About the Author
Dawn Staley is a Naismith Hall of Famer, the first person to win the Naismith Award as both player and coach, and a six-time WNBA All-Star. Born in 1970, she grew up in Philadelphia’s projects, where basketball became her outlet. After leading the University of Virginia to three Final Fours, she played professionally overseas and in the WNBA before transitioning to coaching. At the University of South Carolina, she’s won three national championships and became a vocal advocate for racial and gender equity in sports .
Staley’s personal connection to Uncommon Favor is palpable. The memoir’s title references her faith and the “uncommon” opportunities she’s seized despite systemic barriers. Her decision to share private struggles—like her mother’s flight from South Carolina due to racism—adds layers to her public persona as a stoic competitor. This book is her first foray into writing, and its success hints at a potential second act as an author .
Memorable Quotes
“You have to do what you don’t want to do to get what you want.”
“I don’t just thank God for the wins. I thank Him for the losses—they’re the ones that really drive me.”