WNBA superstar A’Ja Wilson is celebrating her family’s HBCU legacy in a meaningful way. She gifted her signature Nike A’One sneakers to every player on the Benedict College women’s basketball team. The Las Vegas Aces champion and 2025 TIME Athlete of the Year honored her father’s alma mater with this generous gesture.
The squad shared their gratitude on social media on January 12, 2026. Benedict College women’s basketball thanked Wilson for blessing their program with the exclusive kicks. This gift represents more than just sneakers—it’s about legacy, inspiration, and lifting up the next generation.
Benedict College Women’s Basketball Team Receives Signature Nike A’One Sneakers
Wilson paid tribute to her dad’s legacy at Benedict College with this thoughtful donation. Each player on the women’s basketball team received a pair of her signature shoes. The team expressed their appreciation publicly, recognizing Wilson’s numerous accolades and achievements in the sport.
“The Benedict College Women’s Basketball team extends a heartfelt thank you to A’ja Wilson, multi-time MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, TIME Magazine’s 2025 Athlete of the Year, and WNBA All-Star, for blessing our program with her Nike A’One signature shoes,” the team wrote on social media. The gesture demonstrates Wilson’s commitment to supporting women’s basketball at the collegiate level, especially at HBCUs.
A’Ja Wilson’s Father Roscoe Wilson Jr. Played Basketball at Benedict College
The gift honors Wilson’s father, Roscoe Wilson Jr., a standout Benedict College Tiger during the 1970s. He dominated as a big man in the SIAC and NAIA conferences throughout his college career. His impressive play earned him multiple all-conference selections and prestigious All-American honors during his time there.
Roscoe Wilson Jr.’s basketball legacy extended well beyond his college days at Benedict. He played at legendary Rucker Park alongside icons like Julius Erving, showcasing his skills against elite competition. After college, he pursued a professional basketball career overseas before returning to coaching positions at Benedict College and Morris College.
WNBA Star A’Ja Wilson Carries Forward Family Basketball Legacy
Wilson carried on her father’s basketball legacy while simultaneously forging her own remarkable path. After a dominant high school career at Heathwood Hall Episcopal, she joined Dawn Staley’s South Carolina Gamecocks. She became one of college basketball’s most decorated players during her time in Columbia.
Her transition to the WNBA elevated her status to basketball superstardom with the Las Vegas Aces. Wilson has won three WNBA championships in 2022, 2023, and 2025 with the team. Additionally, she earned two Finals MVP awards, proving her ability to perform at the highest level.
Multiple MVP Awards and Olympic Gold Medals Define Wilson’s Career
A’Ja Wilson’s trophy case continues growing with each passing season in professional basketball. She’s earned four league MVP awards, establishing herself as the WNBA’s most dominant player. Her defensive prowess has also been recognized with Defensive Player of the Year honors multiple times.
Beyond the WNBA, Wilson has represented Team USA on the international stage with excellence. She’s won two Olympic gold medals, contributing to her country’s continued dominance in women’s basketball. These achievements cement her status as one of the greatest players in basketball history.
Benedict College Acknowledges Impact Beyond Basketball Court
Benedict College recognized that Wilson’s influence extends far beyond her on-court accomplishments. “Your impact goes far beyond the hardwood,” the college wrote in their thank-you message. She continues inspiring the next generation of women who play with purpose, power, and pride.
The team expressed honor at receiving such a meaningful gift from a basketball icon. “We’re honored to lace up greatness and carry the standard forward,” Benedict College stated proudly. The sneakers serve as daily reminders that excellence is achievable regardless of where you play. Wilson’s gesture reinforces the importance of supporting HBCUs and their athletic programs consistently.
Nike A’One Signature Sneakers Represent Milestone for Women’s Basketball
Wilson’s Nike A’One signature sneaker line represents a significant milestone in women’s basketball. Having a signature shoe demonstrates her marketability and influence within the sport and beyond. The sneakers symbolize how far women’s basketball has come in terms of recognition and support.
By gifting these shoes to Benedict College players, Wilson shares her success with the HBCU community. Each player now wears footwear designed by and for one of basketball’s greatest talents. This creates a tangible connection between Wilson’s professional achievements and the aspirations of college players at HBCUs.
HBCU Athletics Programs Benefit from High-Profile Athlete Support
Wilson’s donation highlights the ongoing need for resources at HBCU athletic programs across the country. While these institutions produce exceptional talent, they often lack the funding of larger programs. Support from professional athletes like Wilson helps bridge that gap in meaningful ways.
Furthermore, this gesture brings national attention to Benedict College’s women’s basketball program specifically. The social media post announcing the gift reached thousands of people, raising the program’s profile. Such visibility can lead to increased recruitment opportunities, better funding, and enhanced program recognition going forward.
Gift Inspires Next Generation of HBCU Women Basketball Players
The impact of Wilson’s gift extends beyond the current Benedict College roster members. Future players will see that HBCU basketball programs receive support from elite professional athletes. This visibility helps attract talented high school players considering their college options and paths forward.
Moreover, Wilson sets an example for other professional athletes with HBCU connections to follow. Her actions demonstrate how successful athletes can give back to institutions that shaped their families. The ripple effect of such generosity can transform programs and inspire countless young women.
A’Ja Wilson Continues Building Legacy On and Off Court
Wilson’s career achievements speak volumes, but her character shines through gestures like this one. She uses her platform and resources to uplift others, particularly women in basketball. Her commitment to HBCUs reflects deep respect for the institutions that educate and develop Black excellence.
As the 2025 TIME Athlete of the Year, Wilson carries significant influence in sports and culture. She chooses to use that influence purposefully, creating opportunities for others to succeed. This latest act of generosity reinforces why she’s not just a great player but a transformative figure in basketball.