A’ja Wilson’s rise to one of the WNBA’s most dominant players did not occur in just one night. Behind the Las Vegas Aces star is a family that taught her discipline, faith, and determination, and these are parents Eva Rakes Wilson and Roscoe C. Wilson Jr., and older brother Renaldo.
The Wilsons collectively are the nucleus of A’ja’s narrative and story, one of hard work and humility, combined with solid family values. They were the pillars that helped her build her career.
A mother’s wisdom: Eva Rakes Wilson
A’ja’s mother, Eva Rakes Wilson, is the strong force behind-the-scenes of her success. A South Carolina State University graduate, Eva started her career in education working as a court stenographer and later with the Richland County School District One in Columbia, South Carolina.
Outside of the office, Eva is a business owner. She owns Burnt Wax Candle Company and Pursenally Yours by Eva, a line of custom handbags, and also acts as the executive director of the A’ja Wilson Foundtioan, a non-profit organization committed to raising awareness about dyslexia and bullying. Issues very close and dear to A’ja’s heart.
Admired for her smarts and calming demeanor, Eva has always been A’ja’s emotional anchor. “Don’t worry about what others have,” she told her daughter one time. “If it’s for you, it’s for you.” Those words have stayed with A’ja throughout every moment of her career.
A father’s legacy: Roscoe C. Wilson Jr.
Though A’ja might have gained determination through her mother, she got her love for basketball from her father. Roscoe C. Wilson Jr. played college ball at Benedict College, an HBCU in Columbia, SC, prior to playing professionally abroad for almost a decade.
Roscoe’s foreign basketball background was the model upon which A’ja’s years were built. He took her through her teens and AAU years, instructing her on the basics and mental resiliency needed to play at high levels.
But beyond the hoops, Roscoe’s legacy goes deeper. Growing up during the civil rights movement, he had a sense of responsibility and pride that he instilled in his daughter. That faith grounding and sense of identity still propel A’ja today.
The brother bond: Renaldo Wilson
A’ja’s older brother, Renaldo Wilson, has been another consistent presence in her life. Like their father, Renaldo played college ball and then professionally abroad. Off the court, he worked his creative muscles as a DJ, under the name of DJ Puff.
The brothers have a close relationship founded on mutual encouragement. When A’ja played at the University of South Carolina, Renaldo was usually there to support her in the stands, and when she got drafted into the WNBA, he was celebrating like if he had won.
At her senior night, he sported a customized jacket that said “Big Bro Wilson 22” , an action which best represent their dynamic.
The power of a united family
Family, religion, and perseverance are the pillars upon which the Wilson family stands. From church on Sundays to practice sessions at midnight, A’ja was being led with discipline and love.
Both Eva and Roscoe were set on keeping her feet planted firmly on earth, never letting fame come before gratitude. That advice, A’ja has said, kept her humble even as a superstar.
Today, while making WNBA history, A’ja Wilson has her family’s legacy by her side every step of the way. They are more than merely her support system, they are the ones who remind her to never forget where she is from.
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