SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS BRING BACK FORMER FAN FAVORITE, APPOINT HER AS NEW WOMEN’S BASKETBALL AMBASSADOR…..SEE MORE…..

SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS BRING BACK FORMER FAN FAVORITE, APPOINT HER AS NEW WOMEN’S BASKETBALL AMBASSADOR…..SEE MORE…..

Columbia, SC — In an exciting and emotional announcement for both the South Carolina Gamecocks and their dedicated fanbase, the university revealed that A’ja Wilson, one of the greatest players in Gamecocks history, will be returning to the program in a new role as the Women’s Basketball Ambassador. Wilson, who led South Carolina to the 2017 NCAA Championship and was named NCAA Player of the Year in 2018, has been a fan favorite ever since she donned the garnet and black.

The news was shared during a special press conference at Colonial Life Arena, where Wilson joined Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley, Athletic Director Ray Tanner, and other team officials. The crowd, which included enthusiastic fans and media members, erupted into applause as Wilson, visibly moved, took the stage.

“This place means everything to me,” Wilson said, her voice thick with emotion. “I grew so much as both a player and a person here at South Carolina. The fans, my teammates, Coach Staley — they shaped me into who I am today. I’m honored and excited to return and continue giving back to the program that helped me get to where I am.”

A’ja Wilson, who played for the Gamecocks from 2014 to 2018, is one of the most iconic figures in the history of South Carolina women’s basketball. She was the driving force behind the Gamecocks’ success during her time at the university, earning numerous accolades, including SEC Player of the Year honors and multiple All-American selections. Wilson also led the Gamecocks to three consecutive SEC titles and established herself as a dominant force on both ends of the court.

After being selected as the first overall pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft by the Las Vegas Aces, Wilson went on to become a star in the professional league, winning a WNBA Championship in 2022 and an MVP award in 2020. Despite her success in the WNBA, Wilson’s bond with South Carolina has never wavered, and the chance to return to her alma mater has been a long-time dream.

A New Role for A New Era

In her new role as the Women’s Basketball Ambassador, Wilson will have a wide range of responsibilities aimed at further elevating the Gamecocks’ women’s basketball program. She will be heavily involved in mentoring current players, serving as a resource for both on and off-the-court guidance. Wilson will also work closely with Coach Staley and the athletic department in promoting the women’s program, helping to increase visibility and attract top talent to the university.

“It’s a special day for South Carolina women’s basketball,” said Coach Dawn Staley, who has long been a mentor and advocate for Wilson. “A’ja was the face of this program for so many years, and she still is. Her leadership, her drive, her dedication to excellence is something we want to pass on to future generations. We couldn’t be more excited to bring her back and have her continue to shape the legacy of Gamecocks basketball.”

In addition to her role with the team, Wilson will also work to engage with Gamecocks fans and the wider community. She will take part in various outreach programs, charity events, and fan engagement activities, continuing to strengthen the connection between the team and its supporters.

“This is more than basketball,” Wilson said. “It’s about making a difference. I want to be someone who continues to inspire and give back to the community that supported me throughout my career. Whether it’s through mentoring players, working with youth in the area, or being present for fans, I want to do everything I can to help continue the growth of this program.”

A Legacy of Excellence

A’ja Wilson’s legacy at South Carolina is well-established. She holds numerous program records, including being the Gamecocks’ all-time leading scorer and rebounder. Her leadership on the court and her impact in the locker room helped set a standard of excellence for the program, which has since gone on to become one of the dominant forces in women’s college basketball under Coach Staley’s leadership.

Her decision to return to South Carolina in this new role signals a new era for the program, one where former players remain closely connected to the team and continue to play a role in its success. With Wilson’s return, the Gamecocks aim to not only defend their status as a national powerhouse but also to continue growing the sport of women’s basketball on and off the court.

“It’s a true honor to come back to South Carolina,” Wilson concluded. “This is where I found my love for basketball, and I’m excited to help the next generation of players find theirs. I can’t wait to get started.”

The Road Ahead

With A’ja Wilson back in the fold, the Gamecocks are poised for even greater success as they continue to build upon their championship-winning legacy. As the program embarks on the next phase of its journey, Wilson’s role will be pivotal in shaping the future of women’s basketball at South Carolina and beyond.

For now, Gamecocks fans can look forward to seeing Wilson’s continued influence as she steps into her ambassador role, knowing that she will be a guiding force for years to come.