In a historic move that will enshrine one of the greatest players in program history, the University of South Carolina announced Tuesday that it will retire A’ja Wilson’s No. 22 jersey in a special ceremony on February 2, 2025. The momentous event, set to take place at the Colonial Life Arena before the top-ranked Gamecocks face Auburn, will pay tribute to the transformative impact Wilson had on South Carolina women’s basketball during her illustrious collegiate career.
A Trailblazing Talent
A’ja Wilson’s journey at South Carolina began in 2014 when she became the program’s first-ever No. 1 recruit. Her arrival marked the dawn of a new era for the Gamecocks, as Wilson’s unparalleled talent and leadership propelled the team to unprecedented heights. During her four years in Columbia, Wilson established herself as a dominant force on the court, earning three consecutive Southeastern Conference (SEC) Player of the Year awards and leading South Carolina to its first national championship in 2017.
Rewriting the Record Books
Wilson’s impact on the Gamecocks’ record books is undeniable. She graduated as the program’s all-time leading scorer with 2,389 points, setting a standard of excellence that will be difficult to surpass. Her incredible achievements and unwavering dedication to the university have made her a beloved figure among fans and a role model for aspiring athletes across the nation.
A’ja Wilson’s legacy at the University of South Carolina extends far beyond the basketball court. She has inspired a generation of young women to pursue their dreams fearlessly and has set a new standard for what it means to be a student-athlete.
– Dawn Staley, South Carolina Women’s Basketball Head Coach
From College Phenom to WNBA Superstar
Wilson’s success at South Carolina served as a springboard for her professional career. Selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft by the Las Vegas Aces, she quickly established herself as one of the league’s most dominant players. Wilson has already won two WNBA titles and has been named the league’s MVP three times, most recently as a unanimous choice in the 2024 season.
Her impact extends beyond the WNBA, as Wilson has also become a key figure in the United States women’s national basketball team. She helped lead Team USA to gold medals in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2024 Paris Olympics, cementing her status as one of the world’s premier basketball players.
A Lasting Legacy
The retirement of A’ja Wilson’s No. 22 jersey is a testament to her enduring legacy at the University of South Carolina. Her impact on the program, both on and off the court, will be remembered for generations to come. As her jersey takes its rightful place among the rafters of the Colonial Life Arena, it will serve as a constant reminder of the greatness she achieved and the indelible mark she left on the university.
Retiring A’ja Wilson’s jersey is a fitting tribute to her tremendous contributions to our program and university. Her legacy will forever be etched in the history of South Carolina athletics, and we are proud to honor her in this way.
– Ray Tanner, University of South Carolina Athletics Director
The jersey retirement ceremony on February 2, 2025, promises to be an emotional and unforgettable event. Fans, teammates, and coaches will gather to celebrate the extraordinary career of A’ja Wilson and to express their gratitude for the joy and inspiration she brought to the Gamecocks community. As her No. 22 jersey is unveiled, it will serve as a powerful symbol of excellence, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of South Carolina women’s basketball.
Inspiring Future Generations
A’ja Wilson’s legacy extends far beyond her own achievements. Her success and dedication have paved the way for future generations of young women to pursue their dreams in basketball and beyond. As her jersey hangs in the rafters, it will serve as a constant reminder to all who enter the Colonial Life Arena that with hard work, determination, and a commitment to excellence, anything is possible.
The University of South Carolina’s decision to retire A’ja Wilson’s No. 22 jersey is a fitting tribute to a player who not only rewrote the record books but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of Gamecocks fans everywhere. As we look to the future of South Carolina women’s basketball, we can be certain that the legacy of A’ja Wilson will continue to inspire and guide the program to new heights.
