Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson has been named the recipient of the prestigious Dawn Staley Community Leadership Award, recognizing her remarkable contributions to her community and her embodiment of leadership on and off the court.
The award, named after WNBA legend and Hall of Famer Dawn Staley, honors a current WNBA player who demonstrates exceptional community leadership, mirroring Staley’s dedication, charitable efforts, and inspirational presence. For Wilson, who spent four transformative years under Staley’s mentorship at the University of South Carolina, this accolade holds special significance.
During her collegiate career, Wilson and Staley led the Gamecocks to unprecedented success, including the program’s first national championship in 2017. Beyond the court, Wilson has continued to carry forward the values of leadership and service instilled in her by Staley.
In 2019, Wilson founded the A’ja Wilson Foundation, a cause close to her heart, aimed at supporting children with dyslexia. Her foundation promotes anti-bullying initiatives and has established scholarships to benefit students and teachers at the Dyslexia Resource Center. Wilson’s efforts have made a significant impact, particularly in her hometown of Hopkins and Columbia, South Carolina, as well as in Las Vegas, where she now plays professionally.
This year, Wilson’s commitment to empowering youth was further demonstrated when she hosted the Unapologetic Girls Summit in Las Vegas, an event designed to foster creativity, authenticity, and learning in areas such as financial literacy and self-care.
“A’ja is a tremendous ambassador for the WNBA and an inspiration to us all,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “Her leadership and community engagement are a testament to the values that Dawn Staley has long represented.”
For Wilson, receiving an award named after her former coach is both humbling and empowering. “Coach Staley has been so giving to so many people throughout her life, and I’m blessed to have seen firsthand how she embodies the league’s community leadership award,” said Wilson. “For me to now be in this position, trying my best to help future generations and my community, it is truly an honor.”
Dawn Staley expressed her pride in Wilson’s achievements, noting that her dedication to community service is as impressive as her on-court performance. “Winning this award is a testament to A’ja’s unwavering passion for making a positive impact in both basketball and the lives of those around her,” said Staley.
As part of the award, the WNBA will donate $10,000 to a charity of Wilson’s choice, further extending the positive impact of her work in the community.
Wilson’s recognition with the Dawn Staley Community Leadership Award underscores her ongoing commitment to making a difference, inspiring others, and continuing the legacy of leadership she learned from one of the game’s greatest.
