A 2x WNBA champion, 2x Olympic gold medalist, and a plethora of records justify what makes A’ja Wilson one of the best basketball players in the world today. Still, she continues to wow us with her consistently strong performance on the floor. Another way she has impacted the world is through her contributions outside of the court. For which, she now receives an honor just as special.

A few days back, A’ja Wilson crashed the internet with a cute yet impactful gesture for a young fan. But, that is not it. She has also been in the headlines for her continuous efforts to make the lives of everyone around her better. The Las Vegas Aces star has been the one to go out of her way and elevate others through her leadership and charity. Hence, for all that she does, the WNBA announced her as the Dawn Staley Community Leadership Awardee on Wednesday.

Consequently, A’ja Wilson shared a message with her Instagram followers. Adding the post by WNBA, she wrote, “Top Tier Blessings,” on her story. Talking about the full circle moment, she told ESPN, “Coach Staley has been so giving to so many people throughout her life, and I’m blessed to have been able to see firsthand how she embodies the league’s community leadership award. For me to now be in this position, trying my best to help future generations, and help my community, it is truly an honor to receive an award that is named after her.”

In 2019, the 2018 first-overall pick established the A’ja Wilson Foundation in South Carolina. The organization aims to help dyslexic kids and promote anti-bullying through empowering the youth. The foundation, along with the Dyslexia Resource Center, has four scholarships. These help the students and teachers work in the right direction. Additionally, the non-profit organization hosts events like Back to School and Unapologetic Girls Summit where they enhance learning experiences and foster creativity in the kids.

Even the WNBA Commissioner could not help but raise a toast to her.

Cathy Engelbert and Dawn Staley praise A’ja Wilson for her honorable community work

For the Aces star, Dawn Staley, who was her head coach in South Carolina, was more than happy to deliver the news. In the Aces’ film session, Becky Hammon played the video of the USC head coach. Presenting the honor, Staley said, “There’s not another person that’s more deserving of this award.” She also added, “My heart is full knowing that you do what you do on the court but also what you do off the court. Many lives that you touch. And you do it in a way that makes people feel good. I love you dearly, I love you deeply. Congratulations A.”

Engelbert, WNBA Commissioner, had compliments lined up for A’ja Wilson. In the league’s official release, she said, “A’ja is a tremendous ambassador for the WNBA and an inspiration to us all. She leads with passion. That’s evident in each and every one of her interactions.” Engelbert added, “A’ja’s rapport with Dawn Staley undeniably shapes her leadership as she uplifts the next generation in South Carolina, Las Vegas and beyond.”

To show their support for A’ja Wilson’s dedication to the community, the league will be donating $10,000 to a charity that the WNBA star will choose. The honor becomes tenfold special as it directly correlates with how Staley’s words resonate in her players’ ears at all times. As an impactful and charitable person herself, she surely is also proud to see Wilson continue the goodwill.

Stay tuned for more such updates. Join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.