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A’ja Wilson Shoe Deal Reignites Heated Apparel Debate At SEC School

#A'Ja Wilson
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A'ja Wilson poses for a photo at WNBA media day.

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Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson was rewarded with a Nike shoe deal following a controversy involving recently drafted WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark.

Clark, who just wrapped up her college basketball career in April, quickly landed a partnership with the apparel brand upon turning pro. While her resume is certainly deserving of the marketing opportunity following a highly decorated stint at Iowa, many immediately asked one question.

Where was A’ja Wilson’s deal?

The former No. 1 overall pick boasts a decorated resume in her own right, landing multiple league awards as she’s already proven herself at the WNBA level – something Clark has yet to do.

Wilson, who was drafted in 2018, has already amassed a pair of league MVPs, another Finals MVP, two WNBA championships, two Defensive Player of the Year awards, and five All-Star honors.

Where was the recognition?

There was a legitimate argument to be made!

A’ja Wilson remained patient through it all, and it soon paid off when she landed a signature shoe deal of her own.

A’ja Wilson’s shoe deal has those around South Carolina reigniting a heated debate.

Under Armour or Nike?!

The school, which is Wilson’s alma mater, has sported Under Armour for some time and is arguably one of the top five brands on the apparel company’s client list.

Notre Dame, Auburn, Maryland, Wisconsin, and Texas Tech immediately come to mind, and the Gamecocks certainly fall somewhere in that mix.

In 2016, the university signed a 10-year extension to remain on board with UA, though it came at the expense of a number of fans’ happiness.

Many prefer Nike clothing to Under Armour’s, and they believe making the switch would be beneficial for both their personal comfort and to their favorite school.

It was a move that was nearly made back in that ’16 offseason, but ultimately, Under Armour made an offer too good to refuse. But can they do it again?

That deal is set to expire in 2026, and with one of the school’s biggest stars now with Nike, the debate is back!

Former NBA player Sindarius Thornwell, who was on campus at the same time as Wilson, wants to see it happen!

Thornwell is best remembered in Columbia for leading the Gamecocks to the Final Four in 2017. The forward averaged 23.6 points per game over that incredible run, nearly taking the program to its first ever national championship appearance.

A number of followers joined in on the conversation, most of whom agreed with the sentiment.

Will the switch finally happen in 2026? More than a few fans would welcome the change. If it does happen, they could have A’ja Wilson to thank!