Behind every successful athlete, there’s often a supportive family cheering them on. For A’ja Wilson, one of the WNBA’s brightest stars, that unwavering support comes from her mother, Eva Rakes Wilson.
Let’s take a closer look at the life and influence of this remarkable woman.
Who Is Eva Rakes Wilson?
Eva Rakes Wilson grew up in a close-knit family that valued hard work and education. From a young age, Eva learned the importance of perseverance and chasing your dreams.
Throughout her life, Eva has been a pillar of strength for her family. She worked diligently as a court stenographer for the Richland County School District 1 in Columbia, South Carolina. Her dedication to her career and family is truly inspiring.
As the mother of A’ja Wilson, Eva played a crucial role in nurturing her daughter’s love for basketball. She encouraged A’ja to pursue her passion and supported her every step of the way. Eva’s unwavering belief in her daughter’s abilities has undoubtedly contributed to A’ja’s incredible success.
Early Life And Background
Growing up, Eva learned the value of hard work from her parents. She witnessed firsthand how dedication and perseverance could help overcome obstacles. These lessons would later prove invaluable as she raised her own family.
Eva’s strong work ethic and commitment to her family are evident in her long career as a court stenographer. She worked tirelessly to provide for her loved ones and ensure they had every opportunity to succeed.
Throughout her life, Eva has been a role model for her children. She taught them the importance of education, setting goals, and working hard to achieve them. Her guidance and support have been instrumental in shaping the lives of her children, especially A’ja.
Education And Athletic Career
While details of Eva’s own education and athletic pursuits are not widely known, her influence on her daughter’s basketball career is undeniable. A’ja Wilson has often spoken about the crucial role her mother played in her journey to becoming a professional athlete.
Eva recognized A’ja’s talent from a young age and encouraged her to pursue basketball. She attended countless games, cheering from the sidelines and offering words of encouragement. Eva’s support never wavered, even as A’ja faced challenges and setbacks.
Thanks to her mother’s unwavering belief and support, A’ja went on to have an incredible basketball career. She excelled at the University of South Carolina, where she led the team to a national championship in 2017. A’ja’s success continued in the WNBA, where she has won multiple championships and individual awards.
Marriage And Family Life
Eva Rakes Wilson is married to Roscoe Wilson Jr., who also has a strong connection to basketball. Roscoe played college basketball at Benedict College and went on to play professionally in Europe for a decade. Together, Eva and Roscoe have built a loving and supportive family.
The Wilson family’s love for basketball extends beyond A’ja. Her brother, Renaldo, also played professionally in Europe. The family’s shared passion for the sport has undoubtedly contributed to A’ja’s success and drive.
In a touching display of gratitude, A’ja surprised her mother by helping her fully retire for Christmas in 2024. This heartwarming gesture showcases the deep bond between mother and daughter and highlights A’ja’s desire to give back to the woman who has given her so much.
Raising A’ja Wilson
Growing up in Hopkins, South Carolina, A’ja Wilson had a built-in role model in her mother Eva. As a single parent working full-time as a court stenographer, Eva instilled in A’ja the values of hard work, perseverance, and integrity from a young age.
“My mom always told me, ‘Don’t cheat the process,'” A’ja has said. “She made sure I understood that success doesn’t come easy – you have to earn it through dedication and effort.” Even as A’ja’s basketball talent became apparent in high school, Eva kept her daughter grounded. She encouraged A’ja to focus on her education as much as her athletic pursuits, knowing that a strong foundation would serve her well no matter where basketball took her.
Thanks to Eva’s guidance and unwavering support, A’ja developed into a top recruit, ultimately choosing to stay close to home and play for the University of South Carolina. It was a decision that would change the course of Gamecock basketball – and cement Eva’s role in her daughter’s success story.
Influence On A’ja’s Basketball Journey
Throughout A’ja’s college career, Eva was a constant presence, attending games and offering words of encouragement from the stands. She celebrated the highs, like A’ja’s national championship in 2017, and helped her navigate the lows, always reminding her daughter to trust in “God’s plan.”
When A’ja was drafted first overall by the Las Vegas Aces in 2018, Eva was right there by her side, beaming with pride. And as A’ja has taken the WNBA by storm, earning Rookie of the Year and MVP honors, Eva has continued to be her biggest cheerleader.
But Eva’s influence goes beyond just moral support. She’s also played a hands-on role in managing A’ja’s career off the court, serving as the executive director of the A’ja Wilson Foundation. The organization, which A’ja started in college, aims to empower and inspire young people through education and athletics.
Under Eva’s leadership, the foundation has made a real difference in communities across the country, providing scholarships, hosting basketball camps, and promoting literacy. It’s a testament to the values Eva has instilled in her daughter – and a powerful example of how one person’s influence can create a ripple effect of positive change.
Personal Life
When she’s not cheering on A’ja or running the foundation, Eva stays busy with her own entrepreneurial pursuits. She’s the CEO of “Pursenally Yours by Eva,” a company that specializes in custom-designed handbags and accessories.
Eva is also a proud grandmother to A’ja’s French bulldog, Ace, who has become something of a celebrity in his own right thanks to his adorable Instagram presence.
But perhaps the most telling glimpse into Eva’s character came in 2020, when A’ja was able to give her an unforgettable Christmas gift: the chance to retire from her job as a court stenographer. After years of hard work and sacrifice, Eva could finally enjoy the fruits of her labor – and the success she had helped her daughter achieve.
Legacy And Impact
As A’ja Wilson continues to make her mark on the WNBA, it’s clear that her legacy will be forever intertwined with her mother’s. Eva’s influence can be seen not just in A’ja’s basketball skills, but in her character, her work ethic, and her commitment to giving back.
Through the A’ja Wilson Foundation and their individual efforts, mother and daughter are making a real difference in the lives of countless young people. They’re showing that success isn’t just about personal accolades – it’s about using your platform to lift up others and create positive change in the world.
And while A’ja may be the one in the spotlight, Eva’s own story is just as inspiring. As a single mother who worked tirelessly to provide for her family, she embodies the kind of resilience and determination that we all strive for. She’s a reminder that behind every great success story, there’s often an unsung hero working tirelessly behind the scenes.
Final Thoughts
Eva Rakes Wilson may not have set out to be a role model, but that’s exactly what she’s become. Through her unwavering support, her strong values, and her own remarkable achievements, she’s shown us what it means to be a true leader – both on and off the court.
As we celebrate A’ja Wilson’s incredible career, let’s also take a moment to recognize the woman who helped make it all possible. Eva Rakes Wilson may not have a fancy title or a basketball legacy of her own, but her impact is immeasurable. She’s a shining example of what a mother’s love and guidance can do – and a reminder that the most important work often happens far from the spotlight.
