Despite the Aces being eliminated in the WNBA playoffs after losing to the No. 1 seed the New York Liberty, A’ja Wilson’s historical season will forever be remembered. The unanimous MVP put on a show this season averaging 26.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, 2.6 blocks, 2.3 assists, and 1.8 steals a game in the regular season. Back in July she averaged 27.8 points, 13.6 rebounds, 4.0 blocks and 1.9 steals while shooting 54%.
“I don’t care what team you root for, don’t ever disrespect A’ja Wilson around here.” Sheryl Swoopes said after the Aces loss.
The star forward also broke the single season record for the most 25+ point and 10+ rebound games. As of this season Wilson is now the all-time leading scorer for the Las Vegas Aces, formerly the San Antonio Stars. Wilson also has the most points with 1,021, most rebounds with 451 and most blocked shots with 98 in a season.
“I’m just saying, if you watch the games, her blocks, the way she protects the rim, they’re dominant physically, like a dunk in men’s basketball. Like they impact the arena like a dunk because she’s so physically dominant”, Las Vegas Aces Head coach Becky Hammon said talking about A’ja Wilson.
In addition, Wilson was also honored at the ESPY Awards with the ‘Best WNBA Player’ and ‘Best Athlete in Women’s Sports’. Even though she was able to attend in person, her Aces teammates made the moment special for her.
“Look at her, we had a chance to coach her,” Staley said of her thoughts watching practice. “(I’m) watching the best player in the world work.”
Playing in the WNBA doesn’t just stop there for the two-time MVP as she also went on to play in the 2024 Paris Olympics this summer under Team USA. Wilson racked up another MVP award in Paris after leading Team USA in scoring with 21 points, 13 rebounds and four blocks to get the win. Overall, Wilson averaged 18.7 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game.
Even without all of the records and awards the MVP has broken she has continuously improved her game. Her midrange game has become even deadlier this season, and most opponents try to force her to take an uncomfortable shot. However, any shot to Wilson is likely to be a good one. The former Gamecock has added the three-pointer in her bag of tricks and dribble handle moves that shake up defenders.
NBA star Lebron James wrote on twitter, “Lil sis going crazy right now!!!! @_ajawilson22.”
Wilson had no break this season as well as several other WNBA players like Breanna Stewart. The Las Vegas Aces star has single handley stood out from everyone with her consistent games in any time. While the Aces have four olympians on the team, things don’t always click and work well for them. A’ja Wilson is the light in the Aces tunnel that kept them going for a great stretch.
Many expect Wilson to be back next season for her redemption against the Liberty. The MVP is known to be in the gym during off season as well, and fans can’t wait to see what she’s adding to her skill set next.
