South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley attended a White House ceremony on Tuesday to celebrate her team’s national championship win.

The Gamecocks were hosted by President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden, marking a momentous occasion for the players and staff, and during the event, Staley was seen holding hands with the president, which caught the attention of many after her recently critical comments about Biden's political decisions, as Fox News reports.

The event came after Staley previously distanced herself from Biden’s re-election campaign, following his difficult debate performance in June.

Despite her earlier public stance, Staley expressed her appreciation for the invitation to the White House, where she delivered remarks on diversity, unity, and progress.

Staley Highlights South Carolina’s Journey

In her speech, Staley touched on the progress made in South Carolina, particularly referencing the removal of the Confederate flag from the state capitol. "I’m reminded of the journey of our state, our home state, South Carolina, has taken," Staley said, noting that the removal of the flag symbolized more than just a political shift. She emphasized how it represented a moment of unity and progress for the state, transcending a single symbolic act.

Staley’s words resonated with the theme of inclusiveness and diversity, themes that she linked closely to her team’s championship journey. "Today, my staff, my team and I stand here embodying diversity, inclusiveness, and unity," she added, reflecting on the significance of this moment for both her team and the nation.

President Biden Steps Out of Race

Staley’s appearance at the White House came on the heels of a significant political shift. President Biden, after facing intense scrutiny during a debate with former President Donald Trump on June 27, chose to drop out of the 2024 presidential race. Vice President Kamala Harris has since stepped in as the Democratic Party candidate, taking over the campaign in Biden's place.

Staley, who had previously shown reluctance to support Biden after his debate performance, praised his decision to step aside. Her comments drew widespread attention, especially considering her past support for Biden in previous campaigns.

Staley’s Connection to Obamas

In July, just weeks after Biden’s withdrawal, Staley attended an event with former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama. During this event, she took to social media, posting on X (formerly Twitter), where she praised Obama’s leadership and humorously suggested borrowing Michelle Obama for "four short years."

"@BarackObama thank you for your inspiration and leadership still," she wrote. "Now please let us borrow @MichelleObama for just 4 short years!" Her playful remarks were well-received, but sparked conversation about her political leanings.

Appreciation for White House Invitation

At the White House event, Staley balanced her earlier criticisms of Biden with gratitude for the honor of being hosted at the nation’s most prestigious residence. She thanked both the president and the first lady for the opportunity, despite the political backdrop that had unfolded just months earlier.

"I hope this moment lands on you, my team, as a powerful reminder of the beauty that can come from unifying for a common goal and doing things the right way," she said. Her words underscored her broader message of unity and collaboration, themes that have defined her coaching career and personal values.

Striking Delicate Balance Between Sports and Politics

Staley’s remarks at the White House event demonstrated her attmepts to navigate the intersection of sports and politics, a balancing act that has defined much of her public persona. While she has never been shy about expressing her political opinions, her focus on unity and progress remains consistent.

Her acknowledgment of Biden’s decision to step aside, paired with her praise for Obama, further illustrates her complex relationship with the political world. As a prominent figure in both sports and public life, Staley continues to influence conversations around equality and social justice.

Symbolism of Confederate Flag

Staley’s mention of the removal of the Confederate flag from South Carolina’s state capitol was a central point of her White House speech. The flag, long a symbol of division, was taken down in 2015 after years of protests and political battles. For Staley, this moment represented a broader push for inclusiveness and justice in the state, a theme that echoed throughout her comments on Tuesday.

Her reflection on this moment served as a reminder of the progress the state has made, even as it continues to grapple with its history. For Staley, both her team’s victory and South Carolina’s journey toward unity are intertwined, offering a message of hope and progress for future generations.

Looking Ahead to New Political Landscape

With the 2024 presidential race now centered around Vice President Harris for those on the left, Staley’s comments at the White House may signal her willingness to engage with the new political landscape. While she stopped short of making any direct endorsements, her praise for both Biden and Obama suggests she remains a key figure in public discourse.

As the nation looks ahead to the upcoming election, Staley’s influence -- both on and off the court -- will likely continue to shape conversations about leadership, diversity, and progress. Whether through her coaching or her public appearances, Staley’s voice remains a powerful force for change among supporters of the causes she champions.