A’ja Wilson Secures $100,000 Payday Just Days Before Her South Carolina Jersey Retirement

A’ja Wilson’s journey embodies a full-court press—relentless effort, sharp focus, and a flair for delivering in clutch moments. With South Carolina set to retire her iconic No. 22 jersey, Wilson secured another major win: a $100,000 event that highlights her growing impact beyond the game. But this is just the beginning of a story that keeps rewriting the rules.

According to a recent post on Instagram by ACCENT Speakers Bureau, Wilson is set to headline their first event of the Spring 2025 semester at the University Auditorium. “ACCENT Speakers Bureau proudly presents @aja22wilson for our first show of the Spring 2025 Semester! The show will take place on Wednesday, January 29th at 7:00 PM at the University Auditorium!” the announcement read.

The highly anticipated event is yet another highlight in a whirlwind month for Wilson, whose influence transcends the hardwood. With accolades like a 2023 WNBA Finals MVP, 3X WNBA MVP honors, and two league titles under her belt, Wilson has solidified her status as the face of the Las Vegas Aces and the WNBA itself.

Her dominance on the court mirrors her growing stature as a role model and entrepreneur. Her book Dear Black Girls: How to Be True to You, a New York Times bestseller, further cements her voice in conversations about overcoming challenges, discrimination, and self-empowerment.

While her speaking engagements showcase her charisma and thought leadership, Wilson’s upcoming jersey retirement underscores the indelible mark she left on South Carolina basketball. On February 2, the Colonial Life Arena will honor its all-time scoring leader—2,389 career points strong—by retiring her No. 22 jersey. This ceremony will take place ahead of the Gamecocks’ matchup against Auburn, a fitting tribute to the program’s first No. 1 recruit and the driving force behind their first NCAA championship in 2017.

The jersey retirement is a monumental honor, but for Wilson, it’s just another chapter in a legacy already immortalized. How many players can say their impact is celebrated both in the rafters and in bronze?

Wilson’s legacy cast in bronze and boundless ambition

Wilson’s legacy in Columbia, South Carolina, is already etched in stone—literally. A statue erected in her honor in 2021 stands as a permanent reminder of her contributions to the program. As a 3x Southeastern Conference Player of the Year, A’ja not only dominated the college game but also set the foundation for her stellar WNBA career.

Wilson’s latest achievements further reinforce her ability to bridge worlds. In 2024, she made history as the first WNBA player to score over 1,000 points in a single season while securing her third MVP award—only the second unanimous MVP in league history.

Her influence extends beyond stats, though they’re staggering: 2X WNBA champion, 6X All-Star, 3X blocks leader, and multiple Defensive Player of the Year honors. Internationally, Wilson boasts 2X Olympic golds and two FIBA World Cup MVP awards. Now, she’s securing a $100,000 speakership deal, according to athletespeakers.com, further solidifying her impact. Wilson’s reach stretches well beyond the hardwood, inspiring both athletes and non-athletes alike.

As fans eagerly await her appearance at the ACCENT event and the South Carolina jersey retirement ceremony, Wilson’s momentum seems unstoppable. Her story serves as a beacon for the next generation, proving that success comes from more than talent—it’s about the drive to keep climbing.

A’ja Wilson might have hung up her South Carolina jersey years ago, but her legacy continues to grow. The question now isn’t whether she’ll make another big play—it’s how high she’ll soar next.