Is A'ja Wilson really friends with controversial figure Michael McManus? Taking a closer look amid viral accusation

A'ja Wilson is one of the premier players in the WNBA. She recently added another MVP to her resume.

However, she is linked to controversial figure Michael McManus. User Michael Ramsford (@Ramsfordmaster) shared a thread of his problematic X posts.

According to Carolina News & Reporter's Jayden Simmons, McManus is a South Carolina graduate. The Aces star is also a USC alumnus. In a show of solidarity, the outspoken social media user regularly supports Wilson's on-court achievements.

Wilson and McManus have been spotted watching South Carolina games together and hanging out. He is even friends with Gamecocks coach Dawn Staley.

McManus' latest posts ranged from slurs to online harassment. It's an alarming collection that has garnered negative X attention.

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A'ja Wilson talked about the criticism received by Black WNBA players and her feelings about playing in Indiana

In an interview with ESPN's Tyler Tines, A'ja Wilson was asked about the amount of criticism aimed at Black WNBA athletes. She highlighted the challenge of maintaining professionalism during games when fans continue to behave unruly.

"It really has, in my sense, because it feels like, it's not like we're timid, but it's like you don't want us to do stuff. You don't want to hear the noise. It strips us from the genuine [happiness] and pureness and love of the game."

Wilson also cited the Indiana fanbase and the feeling of dread she has when playing there. She clarified that her reaction has nothing to do with the city but how its fans act during games.

"Just like, I don't even want to go down this road. I know it's going to be some idiotic person that's going to talk crazy and then I have to continue to take the high road.' ... I dreaded being in Indiana, not because it was like the city or nothing, it was just like, I just don't want no s*** to pop off."

WNBA media and fans have vigorously debated how this sensitive topic shapes the league's landscape. Women's pro basketball is on the right path in terms of growth and popularity.

The presence of superstars A'ja Wilson and Sabrina Ionescu, alongside the arrival of rookie sensations Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark, contributes to its success.