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via Imago
Credits: Imagn
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via Imago
Credits: Imagn
Eight years after leading the South Carolina Gamecocks to an NCAA National Championship, A’ja Wilson received one of the highest honors an athlete can get—her jersey retirement. The University of South Carolina raised her No. 22 to the rafters, cementing her legacy in program history on Sunday. But while the moment itself was emotional, one act from Wilson stood out. And it had Reggie Miller completely hooked.
A viral video shared by BRW Sports captured her celebrating in the best way possible—by grooving to the music playing inside Colonial Life Arena. As she posed for pictures, the entire women’s basketball team joined in, turning the moment into a full-blown party. With smiles all around, Wilson capped it off by high-fiving with them, making it a night to remember.
And Miller? He loved every second of it. The NBA Hall of Famer couldn’t help but share the clip on his Instagram story, adding his own stamp of approval. “I love everything about this,” he wrote. He also called Wilson a “BALLER,” a fitting nod to someone who has dominated every level of the game.
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Wilson’s jersey retirement comes on the heels of a monster WNBA season. In her seventh year, she put up career-best numbers—26.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. Those stats earned her the 2024 WNBA MVP award, and she now holds the single-season scoring record 1021.
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But long before becoming a WNBA superstar, Wilson was already a legend at USC. She remains the program’s all-time leading scorer with 2,389 points and still holds 22 program records. A four-time All-American and the 2018 unanimous national player of the year, her impact on the Gamecocks will never be forgotten. So how did the hooping world reacted to her honor?.
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A’ja Wilson’s jersey honor sparks love from everywhere
It was a weekend to remember for A’ja Wilson. She was surrounded by her family, head coach Dawn Staley, favorite Olympian Bam Adebayo, and the current Gamecocks squad. Wilson took in the moment while also giving back. She spent time with the team, spoke to the players at practice, and even held a Q&A alongside Staley, making sure her impact went beyond just the ceremony.
And the love was everywhere. During the event, a fan shouted, “A’ja, we love you!” prompting Wilson to smile and respond, “Thank you.” But the appreciation didn’t stop there. Wilson took a moment to thank her teammates, coaches, and the Gamecock community.
“It’s a privilege to be a Gamecock, to be a part of this community,” she said. Later, she reflected on the moment on social media, writing, “It’s truly up and it’s stuck.”
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Naturally, the sports world took notice. Chicago Sky star Angel Reese was quick to show love, writing, “Congrats A!!! so deserving!!👑.” Meanwhile, Miami Heat’s Kevin Love kept it simple but fiery, dropping a series of fire emojis to celebrate the moment.
But the respect didn’t stop there. Los Angeles Sparks forward Cameron Brink called Wilson the “GOAT,” while South Carolina’s Raven Johnson echoed the same sentiment with a goat emoji. Even Chloe Kitts couldn’t hide her emotions, responding with three teary-eyed emojis. Wilson’s jersey retirement wasn’t just a personal milestone—it was a moment the entire basketball world celebrated.
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A'ja Wilson: The GOAT of women's basketball or just another great player? What's your take?
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