South Carolina Coach Staley Helping Former Players Return from Israel

Trio of ex-Gamecocks currently playing pro basketball overseas

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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South Carolina women's basketball coach Dawn Staley announced on social media that the university is working to assist three former Gamecock players - Tiffany Mitchell, Destiny Littleton, and Tyasha Harris - in returning home from their professional basketball careers in Israel.

Why it matters

Staley's efforts to bring back her former players highlights the challenges student-athletes can face transitioning to professional leagues abroad, especially in regions facing geopolitical tensions. The university is stepping in to support its alumni and ensure their safety.

The details

The trio of ex-Gamecocks - Tiffany Mitchell, Destiny Littleton, and Tyasha Harris - are currently playing professionally in Israel. Staley shared on social media that the university is working to facilitate their return home, though she did not provide specifics on the situation or any potential safety concerns.

  • Staley made the announcement on social media on Saturday, March 1, 2026.

The players

Dawn Staley

The head coach of the University of South Carolina women's basketball team.

Tiffany Mitchell

A former University of South Carolina women's basketball player who is currently playing professionally in Israel.

Destiny Littleton

A former University of South Carolina women's basketball player who is currently playing professionally in Israel.

Tyasha Harris

A former University of South Carolina women's basketball player who is currently playing professionally in Israel.

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What they’re saying

“We are working to try and help a few of our former players return home from Israel where they are playing professionally.”

— Dawn Staley, Head Coach, University of South Carolina Women's Basketball (Social Media)

What’s next

The university has not provided any timeline or additional details on the efforts to bring the former players back from Israel.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the challenges student-athletes can face transitioning to professional leagues abroad, and the importance of universities supporting their alumni, even after graduation.