Bio

Donivan Dyson enters her second season as an assistant coach for the Spartanburg Methodist College women's basketball program, following a standout year where she helped establish the Pioneers as an emerging power in the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC).

Working alongside head coach Reid Walling, Dyson has played an integral role in player development, recruiting, and scouting. Her efforts have helped lay the foundation for sustained success both on and off the court, while fostering a program culture centered on accountability, competitiveness, and an exceptional student-athlete experience.

During the 2025–26 campaign, Dyson helped guide the Pioneers to a 17-14 overall record—including an impressive 13 victories away from home—while leading SMC to the AAC Tournament semifinals for the second consecutive season. Under her guidance, the Pioneers put together a six-game winning streak, their longest since the 2023–24 season, and were honored as the Spartanburg Methodist College Women's Team of the Year at the annual Big Blue Night of Excellence.

The historic season was highlighted by one of the most memorable moments in program history when senior Halle Traylor connected on a game-winning buzzer-beater in the AAC Tournament quarterfinals. Traylor went on to earn AAC All-Tournament Team honors and Second Team All-AAC recognition, while also taking home both the Trailblazer Award and the Pinnacle Pioneer Award at the Big Blue Night of Excellence.

Prior to arriving at Spartanburg Methodist, Dyson built a reputation as an elite teacher of the game, bringing extensive experience in developing student-athletes across multiple levels of collegiate basketball. Her emphasis on fundamentals, defensive intensity, strong player relationships, and individual skill development continues to drive the Pioneers' success.

Dyson remains deeply committed to helping student-athletes reach their full potential both on the court and in the classroom as she continues to elevate the Spartanburg Methodist College women's basketball program.