A’ja Wilson’s jersey retirement at South Carolina was already a monumental moment in her career, but her speech added an unexpected personal twist. Her reference to Bam Adebayo as her “favorite Olympian from out of town” strongly hints at their rumored relationship, fueling speculation that they are indeed a couple.
While neither Wilson nor Adebayo has publicly confirmed their status, this quip suggests they share a close bond. The timing is also significant—both are at the peak of their respective careers, with Wilson dominating the WNBA for the Las Vegas Aces and Adebayo continuing to be a cornerstone for the Miami Heat.
Beyond the relationship rumors, Wilson’s jersey retirement cements her legacy at South Carolina. She was a transformational player for the Gamecocks, leading them to their first national championship in 2017 and becoming one of the most decorated athletes in program history. Having Adebayo, a fellow South Carolina native, in attendance highlights the mutual respect between the two basketball stars.
Ultimately, Wilson’s comment adds a lighthearted but meaningful moment to an already emotional ceremony. Whether this was an official confirmation of their relationship or just playful banter, it certainly grabbed attention, making an already memorable night even more intriguing.