South Carolina retires jersey number of three-time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson

May Be Interested In:10 benefits of turmeric for healthy skin and hair


COLUMBIA, S.C. — Three-time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson’s South Carolina No. 22 jersey was hung in the rafters Sunday at Colonial Life Arena, her college home court that already features a statue of the program’s all-time leading scorer outside the main entrance.

Wilson spent the weekend around coach Dawn Staley and the current group of Gamecocks players, who faced Auburn. Wilson spoke to the players at practice Saturday and had a question-and-answer session alongside Staley before both sat courtside that night as South Carolina’s men played No. 13 Texas A&M.

It was a fitting honor for Wilson, the 6-foot-5 prep wonder who became a three-time Southeastern Conference player of the year for Staley’s Gamecocks.

The pinnacle came in 2017 when Wilson helped South Carolina to its first national title.

Wilson became South Carolina’s career leader in scoring (2,389 points) and blocks (363).

She also became South Carolina’s first No. 1 WNBA draft pick, chosen by the Las Vegas Aces. She has won three league MVPs, including this past season, and a pair of WNBA championships with Las Vegas.

Wilson also was part of the U.S. Olympic team that won the gold medal in Paris this past summer.

Her journey started just a short drive from South Carolina’s campus.

“Home is where your legacy began,” Staley said in a video shown to the crowd before her jersey ceremony.

“A’ja, we love you!” a fan yelled as Wilson took the mic.

“Thank you,” she said, laughing.

Wilson thanked her teammates, coaches and fans. “It’s a privilege to be a Gamecock, to be a part of this community,” she said.

Wilson choked up when thanking her parents. “I hope I make you proud,” she said.

A banner with South Carolina, No. 22 and her name is located next to the NCAA championship banner Wilson helped win eight years ago.

She was swarmed by the current Gamecocks players, who wore warm-up shirts with Wilson’s number on them, as she left the court.

“Thank you all for believing in me and for making this moment possible,” Wilson said.

share Share facebook pinterest whatsapp x print

Similar Content

Welcome to 7digital Blog - News - Digital jukebox network AMI Entertainment signs with 7digital, a Songtradr company, as a client
Welcome to 7digital Blog – News – Digital jukebox network AMI Entertainment signs with 7digital, a Songtradr company, as a client
Snakes in the Pool?! Why Your Noodles Might Be Hiding a Surprise
Snakes in the Pool?! Why Your Noodles Might Be Hiding a Surprise
China plays down reports of huge flu outbreak; says country safe for travel
China plays down reports of huge flu outbreak; says country safe for travel
Aid begins moving slowly into Gaza after ceasefire takes effect between Israel and Hamas
Aid begins moving slowly into Gaza after ceasefire takes effect between Israel and Hamas
Pat Cummins celebrates taking a wicket
Australia vs India cricket: Pat Cummins bowls KL Rahul
AESL order book swells to  ₹54,700 cr
AESL order book swells to ₹54,700 cr
Daily Highlights: The Stories Making Headlines | © 2025 | Daily News