The University of South Carolina continues to make waves in women’s basketball—this time, not on a collegiate court, but across the professional landscape of the WNBA. In ESPN’s recently released Top 25 WNBA Players list for the 2025 season, a powerful trio of Gamecock alumnae made an indelible mark, underscoring the dominance and legacy of head coach Dawn Staley’s program. Leading the charge is two-time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson, whose performance and leadership continue to solidify her as not only one of the greatest Gamecocks of all time, but also a generational talent in the professional game.
Wilson, who graduated from South Carolina in 2018, was ranked No. 1 on ESPN’s list, a position that surprises no one who has followed her meteoric rise. A cornerstone of the Las Vegas Aces’ back-to-back championships and the face of a new era in women’s basketball, Wilson is both a statistical monster and a charismatic leader. Averaging 22.8 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game last season, she remains the most dominant two-way player in the league.
Joining Wilson in the top 25 are two more Gamecock greats: Allisha Gray and Aliyah Boston, both of whom have carved out remarkable professional paths since their days in Columbia. Gray, now a seasoned veteran, brings versatility and toughness to the Atlanta Dream. Her presence on the list reflects her consistent impact on both ends of the court, with averages of 14.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game last season.
Meanwhile, Boston—the youngest of the trio—has already made her presence felt in just her second year in the league. Drafted No. 1 overall in 2023 by the Indiana Fever, she hit the ground running with a Rookie of the Year campaign that showcased her elite rebounding, shot-blocking, and court IQ. Boston has continued to elevate her game, solidifying her spot as a rising star in the league and earning her place in ESPN’s rankings alongside more seasoned veterans.
This representation is not just a celebration of individual excellence; it’s a testament to the culture, coaching, and development at the University of South Carolina. Under Dawn Staley’s leadership, the Gamecocks have become a pipeline to the pros, sending WNBA-ready talent into the league year after year. The success of Wilson, Gray, and Boston is a reflection of both their individual work ethics and the foundation built during their time at USC.
It’s also a moment of pride for fans in Columbia and beyond. Seeing former Gamecocks thrive at the highest level not only validates the program’s national standing, but it also inspires the next generation of athletes who dream of following in their footsteps.
As the WNBA season unfolds, one thing is clear: the Gamecock legacy is alive and thriving in the pros. With A’ja Wilson leading the way and her fellow USC stars shining brightly, South Carolina’s influence on the game has never been stronger.