The U.S. Basketball Writers Association (USBWA) has officially announced its 2025 Hall of Fame class, recognizing seven esteemed journalists for their outstanding impact on basketball coverage. Among this elite group is Chuck Culpepper, a well-regarded sportswriter celebrated for his sharp and insightful reporting. Culpepper has earned a reputation for his in-depth analysis and ability to capture the essence of the game through his words, making his induction into the Hall of Fame a notable milestone in his career.
The USBWA Hall of Fame honors members of the media who have made significant and lasting contributions to the sport of basketball through journalism. This year’s class shines a spotlight on the vital role sportswriters play in chronicling the game’s history, shaping its narratives, and providing fans with thoughtful, engaging, and accurate accounts of basketball events and personalities.
Despite the celebration of these journalists, no former South Carolina basketball players were included in the USBWA’s Hall of Fame class, as the organization primarily focuses on honoring media professionals rather than athletes. This, however, does not diminish the ongoing recognition of South Carolina’s influence and legacy in the basketball world.
One of the most notable examples of that legacy is A’ja Wilson, a former standout at the University of South Carolina. Wilson was recently honored when her iconic No. 22 jersey was retired in a special ceremony held at Colonial Life Arena on February 2, 2025. This event paid tribute to her exceptional achievements both at the collegiate level and beyond. During her time with the Gamecocks, Wilson led the team to a national championship and earned multiple individual accolades, including national player of the year honors. Since then, she has continued to excel professionally in the WNBA, becoming one of the league’s most dominant and respected players. Her jersey retirement signifies not only her past accomplishments but also her lasting influence on the program and the sport.
In addition to Wilson, South Carolina women’s basketball continues to thrive under the leadership of head coach Dawn Staley. Widely regarded as one of the top coaches in the game, Staley has built the South Carolina program into a national powerhouse. Her leadership, strategic brilliance, and commitment to player development have brought the team numerous conference titles, Final Four appearances, and national championships. Beyond her coaching resume, Staley is also celebrated for her impact on the game’s culture and her advocacy for equality and opportunity in sports.
Staley’s influence extends beyond the college basketball scene. She is a respected figure across all levels of the sport and remains a powerful voice in shaping the future of women’s basketball. Her contributions have been widely recognized not only in sports media but also in broader cultural and educational spaces, where she continues to inspire athletes and coaches alike.
While this year’s USBWA Hall of Fame class does not include any South Carolina players or coaches, the ongoing recognition of figures like Wilson and Staley underscores the continued significance of the university’s basketball program. South Carolina’s presence in the national basketball conversation remains strong, thanks to the accomplishments of its alumni and the consistent excellence of its current program.
The USBWA’s recognition of journalists like Chuck Culpepper highlights the essential role the media plays in preserving and promoting the sport’s history. Journalists often serve as the bridge between the court and the public, providing context, insight, and storytelling that bring basketball to life for fans around the world. As basketball continues to evolve and grow, the work of writers and reporters remains indispensable to its legacy.
Looking ahead, it is likely that South Carolina basketball will continue to be a prominent force, both on the court and in the broader basketball landscape. Whether through the achievements of past stars like A’ja Wilson or the continued excellence of Coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks have firmly established themselves as a central figure in the sport’s ongoing story. Their contributions, while not part of this particular Hall of Fame class, are nonetheless deeply woven into the fabric of basketball history.
