When A’ja Wilson steps onto the court, she’s a force to be reckoned with, no matter who stands in her way—even if it’s a fellow alum from her beloved South Carolina. In a recent showdown against the Chicago Sky, the reigning WNBA MVP delivered a momentous ‘welcome to the league’ block to rookie Kamilla Cardoso, leaving South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley less than pleased.

The electrifying incident unfolded during a high-stakes game between Wilson’s Aces and Cardoso’s Sky.

As the rookie attempted a bank shot under the rim, Wilson, the defending Finals MVP, swooped in and emphatically rejected her shot. The play quickly went viral, with Staley sharing her humorous discontent on social media.

“No! Don’t do that to Kamilla! Do not do that Kamilla! Imma fight! Imma fight! I’m going to fight (imitates punching)!”

Staley’s light-hearted threat to Wilson for “bullying” Cardoso added a touch of humor to the fierce competition. Both Wilson and Cardoso flourished under Staley’s guidance at South Carolina, contributing significantly to the team’s success and forging a unique bond with their coach.

But Staley’s protective instincts over the younger star were on full display, hinting at a playful favoritism.

A’ja Wilson is a South Carolina legend. Before taking the WNBA by storm, she was the heart of the Gamecocks, winning the SEC Player of the Year award three times, the SEC Defensive Player of the Year award twice, and being named the Naismith College Player of the Year in 2018.

Wilson’s leadership was pivotal in securing South Carolina’s first NCAA Tournament championship in 2017, marking a milestone in Dawn Staley’s coaching career.

Her outstanding performance earned her the title of NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player, etching her name into the annals of South Carolina basketball history.

Six seasons into her WNBA career, Wilson has already built a legacy worthy of the Hall of Fame. Yet, her achievements at South Carolina remain a cherished part of her story.

When the Aces played an exhibition game against Puerto Rico at the Colonial Life Arena, the entire team donned Gamecocks gear to honor their star player. Even rookie Kate Martin, fresh off a national championship loss to the Gamecocks, joined in the tribute.

Despite her status as one of the most respected players in the WNBA, A’ja Wilson’s playful showdown with her former coach over Kamilla Cardoso serves as a reminder of the enduring bonds and spirited rivalries forged in the world of sports.