Nov. 17, 2015

COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina sophomore forward A’ja Wilson was named SEC Player of the Week, the league announced today, for her effort in the Gamecocks’ season-opening wins last weekend. It is Wilson’s first time earning the honor after collecting five SEC Freshman of the Week awards last season. She averaged 19.5 points, 12.0 rebounds and 4.0 blocked shots over the two Gamecocks’ two victories.

In a tight game against No. 6/10 Ohio State Friday night, Wilson’s 12 points in the final quarter helped the Gamecocks to the 88-80. With the game tied 78-78 with 2:35 to play, the sophomore scored six of South Carolina’s last 10 points to finish the game with her first double-double of the season at 20 points and 14 rebounds. Wilson followed that performance with another double-double against UNCG on Sunday. She tied her career high with six blocked shots in the outing and netted a team-high 19 points to go with her 10 rebounds.

The Gamecocks open a five-game road stretch on Wed., Nov. 18, at archrival Clemson. Tipoff against the Tigers at Jervey Gym is set for 7 p.m. From there, South Carolina heads to the West Coast for a Sunday outing at UCLA then continues on to the Waikiki Beach Marriott Rainbow Wahine Showdown for three games, including a Friday matchup with No. 18/15 Arizona State.