In a major announcement that’s already sending ripples through the sports world, Netflix has officially confirmed the release of “The Underdog,” a groundbreaking new documentary spotlighting the life, legacy, and unshakable impact of A’ja Wilson—South Carolina Gamecock legend, WNBA MVP, and one of the most influential athletes of her generation. Slated to premiere on March 8, 2025, aligning with International Women’s Day, the documentary will offer an intimate, never-before-seen look at Wilson’s meteoric rise from hometown hero to global icon.
Produced by SpringHill Company, co-founded by LeBron James and Maverick Carter, and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Nneka Onuorah (The Legend of the Underground), The Underdog promises to go beyond the stats and trophies to reveal the woman behind the jersey—a leader, a fighter, and a symbol of excellence in women’s sports.
From Columbia to College Stardom
A’ja Wilson’s story begins in Columbia, South Carolina, where she was born into a tight-knit family and raised just minutes from the University of South Carolina campus. Growing up in a region where college football often dominated the headlines, Wilson helped turn women’s college basketball into a cultural force—almost singlehandedly shifting the national spotlight.
The documentary follows her dominant four-year career under legendary head coach Dawn Staley, where Wilson led the Gamecocks to their first-ever NCAA national championship in 2017 and earned National Player of the Year honors in 2018. Through exclusive interviews with Staley, former teammates, and Wilson herself, The Underdog explores the emotional and physical demands of carrying a program—and a city—on her shoulders.
WNBA Domination: MVP, Champion, and Role Model
After being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft by the Las Vegas Aces, Wilson wasted no time proving she was ready for the pros. The film dives deep into her WNBA journey, capturing the intensity, evolution, and leadership that have defined her career.
From earning two league MVPs (2020, 2022) to leading the Aces to back-to-back championships (2022, 2023), The Underdog showcases Wilson’s on-court brilliance alongside the pressure of representing an entire league in a growing era for women’s sports. Interviews with teammates, rivals, and coaches—including Becky Hammon—offer a multidimensional look at Wilson’s greatness and grit.
More Than an Athlete: Activism, Advocacy, and Authenticity
What makes The Underdog especially compelling is its focus on A’ja Wilson’s voice—one that extends far beyond basketball. As a Black woman in sports, Wilson has often used her platform to speak out on racial injustice, mental health awareness, and gender equity. The documentary highlights her candid approach to difficult topics and her unwavering commitment to lifting up others—especially young girls who look like her.
From starting the A’ja Wilson Foundation, which supports children with dyslexia and promotes education equality, to being a vocal leader in the WNBA’s social justice efforts, Wilson’s impact is undeniable. As director Nneka Onuorah puts it,
“This is a story about legacy, leadership, and love—love for the game, for community, and for truth.”
Documentary Structure: Four Powerful Episodes
The Underdog is structured as a four-part limited series, with each episode centered around a defining chapter in Wilson’s journey:
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“Home Court” – Childhood in Columbia, early battles with dyslexia, and discovering her voice.
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“The Gamecock Era” – College dominance, breaking records, and winning it all.
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“Proving Ground” – WNBA stardom, MVP seasons, and the evolution of a champion.
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“Voice of a Generation” – Social activism, off-court leadership, and what comes next.
The series blends interviews, locker room footage, personal reflections, archival highlights, and unseen moments to give viewers an emotional, empowering look at the woman behind the accolades.
A Cultural Moment: Women’s Sports in the Spotlight
Netflix’s decision to premiere The Underdog on International Women’s Day is no coincidence. It arrives during a cultural turning point, as women’s sports are experiencing unprecedented growth, both in viewership and visibility. With athletes like A’ja Wilson, Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Sabrina Ionescu capturing national attention, this documentary serves as both a celebration and a call to action.
Wilson, known for her humility, acknowledged the honor of the spotlight in a recent statement:
“I never saw myself as ‘the face of anything.’ I just wanted to hoop and inspire people. I hope this documentary reminds young girls that being yourself is more than enough.”
Early Reactions and Industry Buzz
Following the teaser drop, social media erupted with excitement. Former and current players—ranging from Candace Parker to LeBron James—have already praised the project as a long-overdue tribute to one of the sport’s greats.
Sports journalists and fans alike are calling it the “women’s basketball version of The Last Dance,” noting the series’ emotional depth and historical significance. With momentum building around women’s basketball at every level, The Underdog is poised to become a cultural touchstone.
Final Word: A Story Still Being Written
While The Underdog looks back on A’ja Wilson’s journey so far, it also looks forward. At just 28, Wilson is still in her prime, chasing more championships and continuing to lead on every front—athletically, socially, and spiritually.
Netflix’s The Underdog is not just a celebration of one woman’s greatness. It’s a reminder that greatness is often born in the quiet moments, the overlooked places, and the hearts of those who never give up.