After four legendary years at South Carolina, still holding the record for most career points, going as the first overall pick, and winning two WNBA championships, A’ja Wilson has done more than enough to make her alma mater and coach Dawn Staley proud. The respect, pride, and love between them have built a beautiful bond—so much so that Wilson always turns to her former coach when she’s feeling down. Or, let’s say, heartbroken.

Staley recently shared a hilarious (and slightly embarrassing) story about the time Wilson called her, crying over a breakup. “She’s going to kill me,” Staley joked before spilling the details. Her response to Wilson’s tears was very coach-like, “Don’t cry, you’re going to be fine/back together next week.” 

The head coach definitely knows the 3x MVP better than anyone. Maybe even better than she knows herself.

But amid these fun moments, the Gamecocks coach must be prepared to witness one of the best athletes’ historic moment as the program is retiring LV Aces star’s No. 22 jersey on Feb. 2. And even that came with a subtle jab from the coach.

“We have to retire her jersey for her to spend the weekend with us,” she quipped. Wilson is undoubtedly one of the tops in the league, and with her busy schedule, it’s no surprise she barely has time for loved ones.

But, well, when it comes to her South Carolina family, they always find a way. A pretty big and unforgettable one, at that.

And she does deserve every bit of it. Her resume is unreal. First No. 1 recruit, three-time SEC Player of the Year, the leader in South Carolina’s first-ever national title, WNBA No. 1 pick, two-time champ, and, yes, a three-time MVP. Not to forget, unanimously once, becoming the league’s second player to make that happen. 

And now, after already having a statue outside Colonial Life Arena, her jersey will soon hang in the rafters too. The center will forever be a part of Gamecocks’ history, not just as a record-breaker but as an inspiration for every athlete who walks through those doors.

But you know, the ceremony goes down on the same day Iowa retires Caitlin Clark’s jersey. While it’s a huge day for the sport as a whole, it’s definitely a tough one for some of their loved ones, who now have to pick a side.

Aliyah Boston’s tough call, will she pick A’ja Wilson or Caitlin Clark?

While a fan showdown is definitely on the cards, it’s just as tough for their loved ones. Aliyah Boston and Caitlin Clark grew super close while leading the Fever this past season, but now Boston has a serious dilemma—both Clark and A’ja Wilson are getting their jerseys retired on the same day. 

Iowa will celebrate Clark at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, while South Carolina will honor Wilson at Colonial Life Arena. With both ceremonies happening at nearly the same time, it’s pretty much impossible for Boston to attend both. 

She has deep ties to Wilson, calling her “like a real sister,” even though they never actually played together at South Carolina. On the other hand, she and CC have been teammates-turned-friends.

But we might have her answer. Back in December, when Iowa announced Clark’s jersey retirement, Boston shared on Instagram, writing, “It’s always go Cocks, but so happy for you sista. Congrats and go Hawks for today.” 

Well, a clear nod to Wilson, but also showing love for Clark. So, does that mean she’s leaning toward her alma mater? Maybe. But nothing’s set in stone just yet.

At the end of the day, no matter where Boston ends up, it’s a massive moment. Two of the best in the game being honored at their respective schools on the same day? Epic! And whoever attends which ceremony is in for a day to remember.