Oates, who joined the team in 2019, has been pivotal in maintaining the health of the players, helping the team to reach remarkable achievements including a national championship in 2022 and a near-perfect season previously disrupted only by the pandemic in 2020 (Not one player missed a game due to COVID under his watch.)
"If [our players] are ill or hurt, he gets them right. He and Molly have a tremendous relationship. They work extremely well together. They’re probably the secret sauce behind our success."
This approach has significantly minimized injuries, with the team experiencing only two season-ending injuries in Oates' tenure, one of which occurred late in the SEC tournament.
His effective methods and deep commitment have earned him accolades not just from Staley but from players as well, with stars like Brea Beal and Zia Cooke praising his readiness and expertise.
Beyond the court, Oates has become a beloved figure in his hometown of Sanford, North Carolina, where his mother, a retired nurse, has cultivated a growing base of Gamecocks fans.
His impact extends into enhancing the visibility and support for women’s basketball, contributing to its growing popularity and record viewership, as evidenced by the 19.4 million people who tuned in to watch the Gamecocks in a recent championship game.
Craig Oates exemplifies how behind-the-scenes professionals in sports medicine and performance coaching are integral to athletic success. His story is not just about sports but about the broader implications of dedication, health management, and community influence in collegiate athletics.
To learn more about how Oates contributes to the Gamecocks’ success and promotes women’s basketball, delve into the full details of his journey!