ESPN’s WNBA top 25 includes three South Carolina women’s basketball alumni.

In ESPN’s comprehensive ranking of the top 25 WNBA players of the 21st century, three alumni from the University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball program have been honored: A’ja Wilson, Tiffany Mitchell, and Allisha Gray. Their inclusion underscores the significant impact of South Carolina’s program on professional women’s basketball.

A’ja Wilson, ranked No. 8 on ESPN’s list, has established herself as one of the premier players in the WNBA. Her accolades include two WNBA championships, a 2023 Finals MVP, two WNBA MVP awards, and two Defensive Player of the Year honors. Wilson’s journey began at South Carolina, where she led the Gamecocks to their first NCAA title in 2017 and was named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player. Her professional career with the Las Vegas Aces has been marked by consistent excellence, making her a cornerstone of the franchise and a standout in the league .

Tiffany Mitchell, though not as highly ranked as Wilson, has made significant contributions to the WNBA since her debut. A former SEC Player of the Year at South Carolina, Mitchell was drafted by the Indiana Fever and has been known for her scoring ability and defensive prowess. Her steady performance over the years reflects the strong foundation built during her collegiate career under Coach Dawn Staley.

Allisha Gray’s versatility has been a valuable asset in the WNBA. After transferring to South Carolina and playing a pivotal role in their 2017 NCAA championship run, Gray entered the WNBA and earned Rookie of the Year honors. Her ability to contribute both offensively and defensively has made her a key player for the Dallas Wings, showcasing the depth of talent developed at South Carolina.

The success of Wilson, Mitchell, and Gray in the WNBA is a testament to the University of South Carolina’s rise as a powerhouse in women’s basketball. Under Coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks have secured multiple NCAA titles and consistently produced top-tier talent. This sustained excellence has solidified South Carolina’s reputation as a breeding ground for professional-level players .

The inclusion of three South Carolina alumni in ESPN’s top 25 WNBA players of the 21st century highlights the program’s significant contribution to the sport. Through the development of players like A’ja Wilson, Tiffany Mitchell, and Allisha Gray, South Carolina has not only achieved collegiate success but has also left an indelible mark on professional women’s basketball.