South Carolina Strikes 10-Year Nike Deal with Special A’ja Wilson Integration
South Carolina officially approved a landmark agreement with Nike on Friday, securing the company as the Gamecocks’ exclusive uniform outfitter beginning July 1, 2026, one day after the school’s contract with Under Armour expires. The 10-year deal includes unique perks — highlighted by a tribute to one of USC’s greatest athletes, A’ja Wilson.
One of the “additional benefits” outlined in the contract is labeled “A’ja Wilson Integration.” Wilson, already immortalized with a statue outside Colonial Life Arena and a retired jersey hanging inside, is recognized as an “iconic USC athlete and ambassador” in the agreement.
Under this provision, Nike will provide South Carolina women’s basketball with:
- Nike-branded A’ja Wilson signature sneakers (such as the upcoming A’Two), including exclusive USC colorways for on-court use.
- Exploration of A’ja Wilson travel and team gear for the Gamecocks. If not provided, Nike must pay USC $15 million by July 15, 2027.
- Inclusion of USC in A’ja Wilson-related marketing campaigns. Failure to do so will result in a $3 million penalty.
Wilson’s first signature shoe, the A’Ones, launched in May, with the A’Twos expected to release in the summer of 2026. Now entering her eighth WNBA season with the Las Vegas Aces, Wilson has built a decorated career with two league titles, three MVPs, and two Defensive Player of the Year honors.
Women’s Basketball-Specific Benefits
Nike’s investment goes beyond Wilson’s integration. Dawn Staley’s program will debut a new look in the 2026–27 season, outfitted with the same “advanced Paris uniform chassis” worn by Team USA during the 2024 Paris Olympics. A “chassis” is essentially the jersey model foundation.
Unlike the Wilson-specific benefits, Nike cannot simply compensate USC if this part of the deal is unmet — failure to provide the Paris chassis would be considered a breach of contract.
Additionally, Nike has committed to:
- A full redesign of USC women’s basketball uniforms (at least four versions) within the first four years of the contract.
- Leading a redesign of Colonial Life Arena’s court in partnership with the university.
A New Era for Gamecock Athletics
By linking its future with Nike — and honoring A’ja Wilson in the process — South Carolina is cementing its commitment to innovation, tradition, and the continued rise of its women’s basketball dynasty.
