With Kelsey Plum’s departure from the Aces, A’ja Wilson found herself in need of some serious reinforcements. It seems that Aces president Nikki Fargas has answered that call, delivering a reunion that could reignite more than just championship hopes. This isn’t just any pairing—it’s a throwback to a dynamic duo that once set the court on fire at South Carolina. And if anyone’s watching closely, it’s none other than Dawn Staley, who’s giving her two cents on the reunion that’s sure to spark some serious nostalgia.

As sports reporter Michael Sauls put it on X, “Dawn Staley on Tiffany Mitchell and A’ja Wilson teaming up with the Las Vegas Aces: ‘The rafters sisters unite.‘ Both have their jerseys retired and hanging in the rafters of Colonial Life Arena.”

Mitchell’s No. 25 was honored in November 2023, and Wilson’s No. 22 followed in February 2025, cementing their places in Gamecock history.

Mitchell’s journey to this point was a trailblazing one—she was a pivotal recruit for Staley, committing early as a sophomore in high school and later becoming Staley’s first player picked in the first round of the WNBA Draft in 2016. Selected No. 9 by the Indiana Fever, Mitchell was more than just a player. She was a relentless gym rat, a straight-A student, and a key force who helped elevate the Gamecocks to new heights.

That dedication paid off in spades. As Staley said, “It happens to the good ones. It happens to the ones that have dedicated themselves to the game, and the game always finds a way to repay them.” Now, with Wilson by her side, the stage is set for the two to take their bond—and their game—to the next level in Las Vegas.

The two played for two seasons together before Mitchell was drafted in the W. Now that makes for a good fit for Aces looking to build a roster that could gel well with A’ja and her leadership. It was also clear in her signing when Aces President Nikki Fargas expressed her excitement, calling Mitchell an “electric guard with excellent court vision who can play both ends of the court.” The stage is set for an unforgettable run.

Mitchell’s WNBA journey began in 2016 when she was selected No. 9 overall in the draft, and she immediately made an impact, earning a spot on the 2016 All-Rookie Team. Over the years, she has continued to refine her game, becoming known for her ability to score, pass, and defend at a high level. Fargas noted that Mitchell’s presence would add “depth and veteran leadership” to the Aces’ already star-studded lineup.

Dawn Staley’s rafters sisters reunite for a full-circle moment with the Aces

Throughout her career, Mitchell has bounced between three teams in the WNBA—the Indiana Fever, Minnesota Lynx, and Connecticut Sun—but now, for the first time, she will share the court with A’ja Wilson in Las Vegas. “I also couldn’t pass up playing with A’ja again at this point in her career, so I’m just thankful to have the opportunity with her and this team,” Mitchell shares.

During her college days at South Carolina, Mitchell was one of the most decorated players in the program’s history. A three-time All-American, two-time SEC Player of the Year, and three-time All-SEC first-team selection, Mitchell played a pivotal role in helping the Gamecocks reach their first NCAA Final Four in 2015.

Her accolades with the USA Basketball team only added to her storied career, with gold at the 2014 FIBA 3×3 World Championship and a silver at the 2015 Pan American Games. Mitchell’s history is one filled with leadership and success, and now, with Wilson by her side once again, the two former Gamecocks are poised to leave their mark on the WNBA.

For A’ja Wilson, this reunion is a full-circle moment. It’s a chance to reignite the chemistry they once had on the court. And with Staley’s words echoing in the background, it’s clear that the rafters sisters are ready to create new memories in Las Vegas.