A’ja Wilson returns to South Carolina as their new team captain.
South Carolina names A’ja Wilson as their new captain upon her return.
On February 2, 2025, A’ja Wilson, the South Carolina native who propelled the Gamecocks to their first NCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship in 2017, returned to Columbia to have her No. 22 jersey retired at Colonial Life Arena.
This honor solidified her legacy as one of the most influential figures in the program’s history.
A Hometown Hero’s Journey
A’ja Wilson’s journey to stardom began in Hopkins, South Carolina, where she was a standout player at Heathwood Hall Episcopal School.
Her decision to stay home and play for the Gamecocks marked a pivotal moment for the program. Under the guidance of head coach Dawn Staley, Wilson became the first No. 1 overall recruit to sign with South Carolina, setting the stage for a transformative era in Gamecock basketball.
During her tenure from 2014 to 2018, Wilson amassed numerous accolades, including being named the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player in 2017 and securing the National Player of the Year award in 2018.
She led the Gamecocks to their inaugural national title and remains the program’s all-time leader in points (2,389), rebounds (1,195), and blocks (363) .
A Grand Homecoming
The jersey retirement ceremony was a celebration of Wilson’s monumental impact on the program.
Before the Gamecocks’ victory over Auburn, Wilson addressed the crowd, expressing gratitude for the community that supported her throughout her journey.
She reflected on the importance of chasing dreams without fear and acknowledged the pivotal role coach Staley played in her development .
The event was not just a tribute to Wilson’s on-court achievements but also a recognition of her enduring influence on the program’s culture.
Coach Staley emphasized that Wilson’s legacy continues to inspire current and future Gamecocks, noting how her presence and success have attracted top talent to South Carolina .
Beyond College: A Global Superstar
Since graduating, Wilson has elevated her status to a global basketball icon.
As a member of the Las Vegas Aces, she has led the team to two WNBA championships (2022, 2023), earned three MVP awards, and represented Team USA in multiple Olympic Games, securing gold medals in 2021 and 2024 .
Her influence extends beyond the court; in 2024, she was honored with the Dawn Staley Community Leadership Award, recognizing her contributions off the court .
The retirement of A’ja Wilson’s jersey is a testament to her profound impact on South Carolina women’s basketball.
It signifies more than just honoring a player’s achievements; it acknowledges the cultural shift she helped instigate, transforming the Gamecocks into a powerhouse in collegiate women’s basketball.
As the program continues to build upon the foundation she helped establish, Wilson’s legacy remains a guiding light for future generations of athletes.
In the words of Coach Staley, “I’m happy that we’re able to give her her flowers at such a young age to where she’ll be able to smell them for a very, very long time”
. Indeed, A’ja Wilson’s flowers will continue to bloom, inspiring countless individuals both on and off the court.
Leave a Reply