Stories
Dear A’ja
Fans, including me, have followed you into the pros and are now avid fans of the WNBA because of it.
To: A’ja Wilson
From A Devoted UofSC Fan and Sneaker Head
Dear A’ja,
It’s been a whole year since you were drafted as the number one pick in the WNBA draft and a year since UofSC fans have seen you play on the collegiate level. We miss seeing you rock those Under Armor kicks while blocking everyone trying to shoot on your watch. The impact you made on South Carolina is remarkable and quite frankly unheard of. You made a huge impact on the game and the team while at South Carolina but what I appreciate the most is your impact on the community. All of South Carolina came together to cheer you on. A community of fans was built under your tenure from all walks of life and backgrounds. The leadership you have shown all of us will always be remembered. You were the glue who held the team together even when it looked like the team was going to lose.
After you graduated, you started the A’ja Wilson Foundation to help kids with dyslexia, learning disabilities, and help stop the bullying epidemic. Being more of a presence in the community than ever before, you are showing us, the fans, what it really means to give back to the community. Sharing you struggled with dyslexia yourself gave us a true insight into how strong-willed you really are.
Fans, including me, have followed you into the pros and are now avid fans of the WNBA because of it. We even love you so much, you are getting a statue on the campus! I know from experience you are nice to every single one of your fans and take the time to sign autographs or take pictures no matter where you are. You really appreciate your fans and it certainly shows. One of the things I admire most about you is your fight for women’s equality, especially in women’s basketball. You have used your voice to highlight the pay differences between the WNBA and NBA. You have used your platform to raise awareness so girls growing up might have better opportunities down the road.
I have recently moved to the desert and I am proud to know there is a Carolina girl out here as well killing it in the game of basketball. Can’t wait to see you rocking more kicks like the “Turbo Green” Air Jordan 1 or the “Pink Sea” Air Max 720.
Sincerely Your #1 Fan,
Beth Adams
P.S. Just don’t let your shoes melt in this summer heat.