COLUMBIA, S.C. – Three-time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson’s South Carolina No. 22 jersey was hung within the rafters Sunday at Colonial Life Enviornment, her faculty house courtroom that already includes a statue of this system’s all-time main scorer outdoors the principle entrance.
Wilson spent the weekend round coach Daybreak Staley and the present group of Gamecocks gamers, who confronted Auburn. Wilson spoke to the gamers at follow Saturday and had a question-and-answer session alongside Staley earlier than each sat courtside that evening as South Carolina’s males performed No. 13 Texas A&M.
It was a becoming honor for Wilson, the 6-foot-5 prep surprise who grew to become a three-time Southeastern Convention participant of the 12 months for Staley’s Gamecocks.
The top got here in 2017 when Wilson helped South Carolina to its first nationwide title.
Wilson grew to become South Carolina’s profession chief in scoring (2,389 factors) and blocks (363).
She additionally grew to become South Carolina’s first No. 1 WNBA draft choose, chosen by the Las Vegas Aces. She has gained three league MVPs, together with this previous season, and a pair of WNBA championships with Las Vegas.
Wilson additionally was a part of the U.S. Olympic crew that gained the gold medal in Paris this previous summer season.
Her journey began only a brief drive from South Carolina’s campus.
“House is the place your legacy started,” Staley stated in a video proven to the group earlier than her jersey ceremony.
“A’ja, we love you!” a fan yelled as Wilson took the mic.
“Thanks,” she stated, laughing.
Wilson thanked her teammates, coaches and followers.
“It’s a privilege to be a Gamecock, to be part of this neighborhood,” she stated.
Wilson choked up when thanking her mother and father. “I hope I make you proud,” she stated.
A banner with South Carolina, No. 22 and her title is situated subsequent to the NCAA championship banner Wilson helped win eight years in the past.
She was swarmed by the present Gamecocks gamers, who wore warm-up shirts with Wilson’s quantity on them, as she left the courtroom.
“Thanks all for believing in me and for making this second potential,” Wilson stated.
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