WNBA superstar A'ja Wilson is widely regarded as the greatest player in the world, having recently secured a record-breaking fourth league MVP title. While her dominance on the court is well-documented, a recent "In the Bag" segment with Vogue offered a rare look at the foundation of her leadership off the court. While showcasing her daily essentials, Wilson pulled out a sentimental staple: her Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated lanyard.

Wilson, who crossed into the Theta Gamma Chapter at The University of South Carolina in the fall of 2017, reflected on how the sisterhood provided a necessary sanctuary during her collegiate years. For the Las Vegas Aces center, the lanyard is more than just a tool for her keys; it is a reminder of the 60 line sisters who helped her navigate the pressures of being an elite student-athlete.

"I’m so grateful for the sisterhood that I formed in college through AKA because it allowed me to be a woman," Wilson said. "It allowed me to be a young girl. Because as a student-athlete, you become trapped in this world of gym, class, gym, class—and that was it."

Wilson explained that joining the first Black Greek-letter sorority allowed her to step outside the "athlete" bubble and experience a different side of the university experience. By engaging with women from various backgrounds, she gained perspectives that she carries into her professional life today. As she has ascended to become a global icon, she credits her sorority for sharpening the leadership skills and resilience required at the highest level.

"As I have gotten older and become a leader and put in different situations, I have to credit AKA and the sisterhood when it comes to that," Wilson noted. "It tests you to see if you are really down for it, and I am down for it."