A’ja Wilson: A Bronze Legacy at Colonial Life Arena

In the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, a towering bronze statue stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit and unparalleled achievements of A’ja Wilson. Erected outside the Colonial Life Arena, this monument not only commemorates her extraordinary basketball career but also symbolizes the profound impact she has had on the University of South Carolina, the sport of women’s basketball, and the broader community.

The Genesis of the Statue

The idea of immortalizing A’ja Wilson’s legacy in bronze was conceived well before her departure from the University of South Carolina. Even during her tenure as a student-athlete, discussions about honoring her contributions were underway. Her remarkable achievements, both on and off the court, made the decision to commission a statue a natural one.

The statue was made possible through generous private donations from several individuals, including the late Dodie Anderson, musician and alumnus Darius Rucker, and head coach Dawn Staley. These contributions underscored the collective appreciation for Wilson’s impact and the desire to ensure her legacy would endure for generations to come .

Design and Symbolism

Standing over 11 feet tall and perched atop a four-foot granite base, the statue captures Wilson in a dynamic pose, mid-shot, with her hair flowing behind her—a visual representation of her grace, power, and determination on the court. The sculpture was crafted by Julie Rotblatt-Amrany of The Fine Art Studio of Rotblatt-Amrany in Highwood, Illinois, renowned for creating statues of sports legends such as Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson .

This artistic representation is not merely a reflection of her athletic prowess but also embodies the essence of her journey—a Black woman from Hopkins, South Carolina, who rose to prominence in a sport that has historically lacked representation. The statue serves as an inspiration, particularly to young Black girls, illustrating that with passion, dedication, and belief in oneself, barriers can be broken.

A Personal Tribute

During the unveiling ceremony, Wilson expressed profound gratitude and emotional reflection. She shared the significance of the moment, especially considering her grandmother’s experiences. “My grandmother, Hattie Rakes, grew up in this area four blocks from the Governor’s Mansion to be exact,” Wilson recounted. “When she was a child, she couldn’t even walk on the grounds of the University of South Carolina. She would have to walk around the campus just to get to where she needed to go. If only she were here today to see that these same grounds she had to walk around, now is the same ground that houses a statue of her granddaughter” .

This poignant narrative highlights the broader historical context and the strides made in terms of racial equity and representation, with Wilson’s achievements serving as a beacon of progress.

Athletic Achievements and Impact

A’ja Wilson’s basketball career is nothing short of legendary. At the University of South Carolina, she led the Gamecocks to their first NCAA National Championship in 2017 and was instrumental in securing three SEC regular-season titles and four SEC Tournament championships. Individually, she became the program’s first four-time All-American and the first three-time SEC Player of the Year, accolades that underscore her dominance and consistency .

Her transition to the professional arena was equally impressive. Drafted as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft by the Las Vegas Aces, Wilson quickly made her mark, earning Rookie of the Year honors and later being named WNBA MVP in 2020. Her prowess on the court has been matched by her leadership and advocacy off it, as she has been a vocal proponent for social justice and equity, further solidifying her status as a role model and trailblazer.

A Lasting Legacy

The installation of the statue is a significant milestone in A’ja Wilson’s journey, but it is by no means the culmination. It serves as a reminder of the heights she has reached and the barriers she has broken. More importantly, it stands as a source of inspiration for future generations, particularly young women of color, encouraging them to pursue their dreams relentlessly.

In the words of Coach Dawn Staley, “What she means to our program is legendary. You think of legendary as what they do on the court, but the magic of A’ja is all the other stuff” . This sentiment encapsulates the multifaceted impact Wilson has had—not just as an athlete, but as a catalyst for change and a symbol of excellence.

As visitors approach Colonial Life Arena and gaze upon the statue, they are reminded that greatness is not confined to the court. A’ja Wilson’s legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of representation, and the enduring impact of one individual’s commitment to excellence.

Recent Developments: Jersey Retirement

In a further testament to her enduring legacy, on February 2, 2025, the University of South Carolina retired A’ja Wilson’s No. 22 jersey during a ceremony at Colonial Life Arena. This honor places her among the most distinguished figures in the program’s history, ensuring that her contributions will never be forgotten .

A’ja Wilson’s statue at Colonial Life Arena is more than just a piece of art; it is a symbol of achievement, resilience, and the breaking of barriers. It stands as a beacon for aspiring athletes and serves as a constant reminder of the heights that can be reached with determination and passion. As the years pass, the statue will continue to inspire, ensuring that A’ja Wilson’s legacy remains etched in the annals of history.