South Carolina honored three-time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson by retiring her No. 22 jersey at Colonial Life Arena, her college home court. Wilson, a standout player for the Gamecocks, was celebrated for her remarkable achievements during her time at South Carolina.
Wilson, a three-time SEC Player of the Year, led South Carolina to its first national title in 2017. She holds the program records for career scoring with 2,389 points and blocks with 363. Wilson was also the first overall pick in the WNBA draft, selected by the Las Vegas Aces, where she has since won three league MVP awards and two WNBA championships.
Additionally, Wilson was part of the U.S. Olympic team that secured a gold medal in Paris this past summer. Her impact on and off the court was evident as she addressed the current Gamecocks players, expressing gratitude to her teammates, coaches, and fans for their support throughout her career.
The emotional ceremony included a video tribute to Wilson, highlighting her legacy and contributions to the South Carolina basketball program. Fans showed their appreciation for Wilson as she took the mic, thanking her parents and reflecting on her journey from a local standout to a national basketball icon.
Wilson's jersey now hangs alongside the NCAA championship banner she helped secure, symbolizing her lasting impact on the Gamecocks' basketball program. The current players paid tribute to Wilson by wearing warm-up shirts with her number, showcasing the respect and admiration they hold for the basketball star.
As Wilson bid farewell to the court, she expressed her gratitude to everyone who believed in her and made the jersey retirement ceremony possible. The event was a testament to Wilson's exceptional career and the indelible mark she has left on South Carolina basketball.
