In a groundbreaking move that underscores their enduring commitment to the University of South Carolina, WNBA stars and former national champions A’ja Wilson and Aliyah Boston have announced a multi-million dollar endowment for the Gamecocks women’s basketball program.
The news, first reported by ESPN, highlights a joint philanthropic effort by two of the sport’s brightest stars, both of whom played pivotal roles in elevating the Gamecocks to national prominence. The endowment—believed to be one of the largest ever contributed by former student-athletes to a women’s collegiate program—will fund scholarships, facilities, player development, and community outreach initiatives for years to come.
Giving Back to the Roots
Wilson, a two-time WNBA MVP and Olympic gold medalist, and Boston, the 2022 NCAA Player of the Year and WNBA All-Star, credited their time under Coach Dawn Staley as life-changing. “South Carolina didn’t just make us better players—it made us better people,” Wilson said in a press statement. “This is our way of ensuring that future generations of Gamecocks can dream even bigger.”
Boston echoed the sentiment, saying, “This program gave me everything. Now it’s our turn to give something back—to honor the legacy and help it grow.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Under Coach Staley, the South Carolina women’s basketball program has become a national powerhouse, winning multiple NCAA titles and consistently sending talent to the professional level. The Wilson-Boston endowment is a testament to the culture of excellence, empowerment, and sisterhood that defines the program.
According to athletic director Ray Tanner, the endowment will be strategically invested to yield long-term benefits. “This gift is transformational. It strengthens our foundation and opens new doors for student-athletes—athletically, academically, and personally,” Tanner said.
Impact Beyond the Court
Beyond funding scholarships and training resources, a portion of the endowment will support leadership workshops, mental health services, and community service projects—initiatives both players championed during their time at South Carolina and in the WNBA.
Coach Staley, visibly emotional during the announcement ceremony, called the gift “a full-circle moment.” She added, “This is more than money. It’s a message to every young girl watching: that greatness doesn’t stop at the final buzzer—it grows, it gives, and it comes back stronger.”
Inspiring a Movement
The announcement has already sparked conversations across collegiate sports about athlete-driven philanthropy, especially within women’s programs that have historically faced funding disparities. Social media erupted with praise, with WNBA peers, USC alumni, and fans celebrating the stars’ generosity and leadership.
As the Gamecocks prepare for another strong season, Wilson and Boston’s endowment ensures that the program’s future remains as bright as its illustrious past. And for young athletes stepping onto the court in Columbia, it’s a promise that they too can become champions—and changemakers.
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