Bill Text: SC S1168 | 2017-2018 | 122nd General Assembly | Introduced
Bill Title: A'ja Wilson day
Spectrum: Bipartisan Bill
Status: (Passed) 2018-04-12 - Introduced and adopted [S1168 Detail]
Download: South_Carolina-2017-S1168-Introduced.html
A SENATE RESOLUTION
TO RECOGNIZE FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018, AS "A'JA WILSON DAY" IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND TO RECOGNIZE HER AS THE GREATEST GAMECOCK ATHLETE OF ALL TIME.
Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate are delighted to recognize A'ja Wilson for her outstanding career as star forward with the University of South Carolina's women's basketball team; and
Whereas, a native of Hopkins and a graduate of Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, A'ja Wilson has been named one of the best athletes to have played not only at the University of South Carolina and in the Southeastern Conference, but also in the country. Renowned for her athleticism, consistency, and versatility, A'ja is the projected top pick for the 2018 Women's National Basketball Association draft; and
Whereas, during her NCAA career, she's received an impressive number of accolades, including the Naismith Trophy, John R. Wooden Award, Lisa Leslie Award, 2018 Wade Trophy, 2018 USA TODAY Sports Player of the Year, 2018 espnW Preseason National Player of the Year, Ann Meyers Drysdale National Player of the Year Award, Associated Press National Player of the Year, three-time SEC Player of the Year, four-time SEC All-First Team, two-time SEC tournament MVP, and three-time All-American; and
Whereas, as number 22 with the Gamecocks, A'ja set several South Carolina women's records, including most career points, most free throw makes and attempts, and third most rebounds. During a dominant senior year, she was at the heart of everything her team did, averaging 22.6 points and 11.9 rebounds per game; and
Whereas, a natural leader, A'ja boasts an emotional maturity and wise perspective that are beyond her years. The quintessential good sport, she's social, goofy, generous, courteous, optimistic, and always humble; and
Whereas, A'ja has grown as a player due to the support of a number of coaches, including Olympic gold medalist and award-winning coach, Dawn Staley, and A'ja's father, Roscoe, who played basketball professionally overseas and introduced her to the sport at a young age. A'ja finds her competitive, independent spirit and love for basketball in her Wilson genes; and
Whereas, the Senate finds it particularly poignant that "A'ja Wilson Day", April 13th, fittingly coincides with her father's birthday; and
Whereas, throughout her life, A'ja has also been motivated and inspired by the strength, independence, and kindness of her grandmother, Hattie. At each game, A'ja is able to remember her grandmother through her pearl necklace and the tattoo on her wrist; and
Whereas, beyond the points, rebounds, and blocks, A'ja's pull on her community and her effect on women's basketball overall have been remarkable. A hometown hero proud to have "South Carolina" across her chest, she has brought her city and her State together to celebrate the sport of basketball; and
Whereas, off the court, A'ja has bravely brought awareness to her battle with dyslexia and has become a role model for overcoming the learning disability through determination, strength, and perseverance; and
Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate appreciate the pride and recognition that A'ja Wilson has brought to her community and the great State of South Carolina and look with interest to hear of all further accomplishments by this outstanding athlete. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the Senate:
That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, recognize Friday, April 13, 2018, as "A'ja Wilson Day" in South Carolina and recognize her as the greatest Gamecock athlete of all time.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to A'ja Wilson.
