South Carolina Unveils Statue of 2020 WNBA MVP, Gamecocks Legend A'ja Wilson

On January 14, 2021, a historic moment unfolded outside of Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, S.C. as a statue honoring A'ja Wilson was unveiled. The statue stands as a tribute to the remarkable achievements of A'ja Wilson, a legend in the world of basketball and a beloved figure in South Carolina.

A'ja Wilson's journey to receiving this honor is nothing short of extraordinary. Born in Hopkins, S.C., Wilson's impact on the basketball court has been felt at both the collegiate and professional levels. Her legacy was further solidified during her time at the University of South Carolina, where she led the Gamecocks to the 2017 national championship, leaving an indelible mark on the program.

South Carolina athletic director Ray Tanner expressed his admiration for Wilson, stating, "A'ja Wilson's accomplishments, on and off the basketball court, make this statue so deserving. She is an outstanding representative of Gamecock Athletics and our University. I am delighted that we can celebrate her in this manner. Thank you to everyone who helped get this done, including our great donors."

Wilson's impact extends far beyond her on-court accolades. As a three-time All-American at South Carolina and the consensus National Player of the Year in 2018, she showcased her unparalleled skill and dedication to the sport. However, it is her commitment to social justice that has further elevated her status as a role model and leader.

In the wake of heightened awareness surrounding racial injustice and police brutality, A'ja Wilson emerged as a powerful voice within the WNBA. She played an instrumental role as a founding member of the league's social justice council, advocating for change and addressing systemic racism that has disproportionately affected Black and brown communities.

During the ceremony, Wilson reflected on the significance of the statue unveiling taking place on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, emphasizing the importance of laying the groundwork for future generations. "Change doesn’t happen overnight," Wilson remarked. "But you want to be a part of something that plants seeds so later on down the road little Black girls can come back here and look at that statue and say, ‘wow, she was here. But at the same time she was in her community as well.' And I think that’s the beauty of it all and I’m taking it all with grace hopefully."

The impact of A'ja Wilson's influence extends beyond her athletic prowess. Her dedication to uplifting her community and serving as a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes underscores the profound impact she has had both on and off the court.

Transitioning to the professional stage, A'ja Wilson seamlessly carried her excellence from South Carolina to the WNBA. In just three seasons with the Las Vegas Aces, she has already established herself as a force to be reckoned with. Her remarkable performance on the court culminated in being named the 2020 WNBA MVP, a testament to her unwavering skill and determination.

As a two-time All-Star, Wilson's impact in the WNBA continues to reverberate throughout the league. Her ability to dominate games with an average of 20.5 points and 8.5 rebounds per game exemplifies her unparalleled talent and unwavering commitment to excellence.

The unveiling of A'ja Wilson's statue serves as a testament to her enduring legacy and the profound impact she has had on the world of basketball. It stands not only as a symbol of her athletic achievements but also as a representation of her unwavering dedication to advocating for social change.

A'ja Wilson's influence transcends the boundaries of sports, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who have been inspired by her journey. Her statue will serve as a timeless reminder of her remarkable contributions to the game, her community, and the ongoing pursuit of equality.

As we celebrate A'ja Wilson's achievements and the unveiling of her statue, we are reminded of the power of resilience, determination, and the enduring impact of those who use their platform to effect positive change. A'ja Wilson's legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, both on and off the basketball court.