BREAKING: A’ja Wilson Donates \$15 Million to South Carolina Women’s Basketball Program—Dawn Staley Calls It a Game-Changer
In a groundbreaking moment for women’s collegiate athletics, WNBA superstar and former South Carolina Gamecocks legend A’ja Wilson has announced a \$15 million donation to the University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball program. The historic gift, one of the largest ever made by a female athlete to a university sports program, has been hailed as a “game-changer” by head coach Dawn Staley and is set to transform the future of the Gamecocks program for generations.
Wilson, who led South Carolina to its first national championship in 2017, made the surprise announcement during a press conference held at Colonial Life Arena, the very court where she built her collegiate legacy.
I’m Just Giving Back to What Gave Me Everything
“I’ve always said South Carolina changed my life,” Wilson said during the emotional reveal. “This program built me into the woman and the player I am today. It’s only right that I pour back into the place that poured so much into me.
The funds will be used to build a new state-of-the-art training facility dedicated exclusively to the women’s team, expand scholarship opportunities for underprivileged athletes, enhance mental health resources, and launch leadership and mentorship programs specifically for young women in athletics.
A Legacy Cemented
A’ja Wilson is no stranger to making history. She is the most decorated player in South Carolina women’s basketball history, a former National Player of the Year, Final Four Most Outstanding Player, and the school’s all-time leading scorer. After a stellar college career, she went on to dominate in the WNBA, winning two MVP awards and back-to-back championships with the Las Vegas Aces.
Off the court, Wilson has made just as much impact. She’s a fierce advocate for social justice, mental health awareness, and youth empowerment. Through her A’ja Wilson Foundation, she’s worked to support children with dyslexia and fight bullying—causes she personally relates to.
This \$15 million gift represents not only a continuation of her philanthropy, but a statement about the importance of investing in women’s sports.
Dawn Staley: “This Is Bigger Than Basketball
South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley, who recruited Wilson out of Columbia’s Heathwood Hall, was visibly emotional while responding to the donation. “This is bigger than basketball. This is about legacy. This is about changing the lives of young women who will come through this program for decades to come,” Staley said.
“She’s always been a leader, but today A’ja has become a visionary,” Staley added. “This is generational impact, and we are forever grateful.”
Empowering the Next Generation
In addition to enhancing facilities and scholarships, part of the donation will launch the “22 Initiative” (named after Wilson’s jersey number), a leadership and personal development program for women student-athletes. The initiative will include internships, travel opportunities, and mentorship pairing with WNBA players and professionals in business, law, and medicine.
“This isn’t just about hoops,” Wilson explained. “It’s about helping young women become bosses, leaders, and forces in whatever field they choose.”
A National Moment
The announcement has drawn national attention, with current and former athletes, coaches, and media personalities praising Wilson’s bold act of giving. Sports figures from Serena Williams to LeBron James took to social media to applaud the move, calling it a model for athletes looking to give back meaningfully.
With NIL and revenue conversations surrounding women’s sports continuing to evolve, Wilson’s gift arrives as a timely and powerful reminder of the value and potential of women’s athletics.
Full Circle
For A’ja Wilson, the donation represents the ultimate full-circle moment: from a hometown hero raised in Columbia to a national champion, professional superstar, and now, transformational philanthropist.
This is just the beginning,” Wilson said. “The dream is for every little girl who puts on a Gamecock jersey to know she has everything she needs to become great.
