2024 Update
A’ja Wilson: Dominating the WNBA in 2024
A’ja Wilson continues to cement her legacy as one of the greatest WNBA players of all time. The Las Vegas Aces superstar has taken her game to new heights in 2024, leading her team to another championship and securing individual accolades along the way. Let’s dive into Wilson’s incredible 2024 season.
2024 WNBA Season: Shattering Records
Wilson’s 2024 regular season was nothing short of historic. She averaged a league-leading 26.9 points per game, breaking Diana Taurasi’s previous single-season scoring record. Moreover, Wilson became the first player in WNBA history to score over 1,000 points in a single season. Her dominance extended beyond scoring, as she also set a new single-season rebounding record with 451 total rebounds.
Wilson’s consistency was remarkable, scoring 20 or more points in 89.5% of her games – another WNBA record. Her defensive prowess was equally impressive, averaging 9.8 defensive rebounds per game, the highest single-season average in league history.
Las Vegas Aces Repeat Championship: A Team Effort
While individual accolades are impressive, Wilson’s primary focus has always been team success. The Las Vegas Aces, under her leadership, secured the fourth seed in the 2024 WNBA Playoffs. As the reigning champions, the Aces are poised to defend their title with Wilson at the helm.
Wilson’s commitment to her teammates is evident in her play and her words. Aces head coach Becky Hammon praised Wilson’s ability to elevate those around her, stating, “A’ja is…the greatest, because she’s so authentically committed to that: pulling greatness out of other people”.
WNBA Playoffs: The Road to Glory
The Aces’ playoff journey began with a strong start against the Seattle Storm. In a tightly contested game, Wilson showcased her MVP-caliber skills, contributing 21 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 blocked shots. Her performance was crucial in the Aces’ 78-67 victory, setting the tone for their championship defense.
As the playoffs progress, all eyes will be on Wilson to lead her team through tough matchups. Her ability to perform under pressure and inspire her teammates will be key factors in the Aces’ quest for back-to-back titles.
League MVP: A Unanimous Decision
Wilson’s exceptional season culminated in her third WNBA MVP award, received in a unanimous vote. This achievement places her in elite company, joining Sheryl Swoopes, Lisa Leslie, and Lauren Jackson as the only players to win three MVP titles[4].
The unanimous decision is a testament to Wilson’s dominance and impact on the game. She received all 67 first-place votes, becoming only the second player in WNBA history to be named MVP unanimously, following Cynthia Cooper in 1997.
Wilson’s humility shines through even in her greatest moments. During her acceptance speech, she reflected on the privilege of being one of just 144 WNBA players and the responsibility that comes with her success.
As A’ja Wilson continues to push the boundaries of excellence in the WNBA, her impact extends far beyond the court. She serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, particularly young Black girls, proving that with hard work and dedication, dreams can become reality.
Follow A’ja Wilson’s journey on [Twitter] and [Instagram]to stay updated on her incredible career.
2023 Update
A’ja Wilson is named defensive player of the year.
The Climb To The Top
A’ja Wilson was born on August 6, 1996 in Hopkins, South Carolina. She was raised in Hopkins and attended Ridge View High School in Columbia, South Carolina.
A’ja Wilson: High School
Wilson played basketball at Ridge View HS (Columbia, South Carolina). A’ja was a highly regarded recruit. She eventually committed to play at the University of South Carolina.
During her high school career, A’ja Wilson was a standout basketball player. She earned South Carolina Girls Basketball Player of the Year four-times (2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016). Wilson was also named a McDonald’s All-American in 2014, indicating that she was one of the top high school players in the country.
In addition to her individual accolades, Wilson helped lead Ridge View to four consecutive state championships(2013 to 2016). She finished her high school career with 2,389 points, 1,307 rebounds, and 358 blocks. A’ja Wilson is one of the most dominant players in the history of South Carolina high school basketball. Wilson’s success on the court attracted the attention of college coaches. Ultimately committing to play at the University of South Carolina, where she continued to excel as a player.
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A’ja Wilson: College
As a student-athlete at the University of South Carolina, A’ja Wilson accomplished a great deal on the basketball court. She was a four-year starter for the Gamecocks. A’ja helped lead the team to four straight NCAA Tournament appearances. Ms. Wilson orchestrated the trip to the Final Four in 2017. During her college career, Wilson was named a first-team All-SEC selection three times. She earned a second-team All-SEC selection once. A’ja, also, was named the SEC Player of the Year in 2017 and 2018.
College
In her senior season, Wilson led the Gamecocks to the NCAA Championship. A’ja earned the Most Outstanding Player award in the process. She also won the Naismith Trophy, which is given annually to the best college basketball player in the country. Wilson finished her college career as the all-time leading scorer in South Carolina history. Aja scored a total of 2,389 points. Ms. Wilson also ranks second in program history in rebounds (1,307) and blocks (358). Wilson’s outstanding college career helped her earn the first overall pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft. She was selected by the Las Vegas Aces.
A’ja Wilson: Professional
Since entering the WNBA in 2018, A’ja Wilson has established herself as one of the top players in the league. As a member of the Las Vegas Aces, Wilson has been named an All-Star in each of her first four seasons. Ms. Wilson was named to the All-WNBA First Team in 2019 and 2020. In 2020, she was also named the WNBA Most Valuable Player. She led the Aces to the best record in the league. A’ja also was named the Western Conference Player of the Month four times.
In addition to her individual accolades, Wilson has helped lead the Aces to the WNBA playoffs. . The Aces lost in the Finals to the Seattle Storm. But, Wilson’s outstanding performance throughout the playoffs earned her the WNBA Finals MVP award.
Wilson has also had success as a member of the United States women’s national basketball team. She helped lead the team to a gold medal at the 2018 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup. She was named to the All-Tournament Team. Wilson is also a member of the team that is preparing to compete at the 2022 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.
Humility
A’ja Wilson is known for being actively involved in her community. She uses her platform as a professional athlete to make a positive impact.
A’ja Wilson Foundation
In 2019, Wilson launched the A’ja Wilson Foundation. It aims to provide support and resources to youth in her hometown of Hopkins, South Carolina. Through the foundation, Wilson has organized various events and initiatives. Including a Thanksgiving turkey giveaway and a book drive for a local elementary school.
In addition to her work with the A’ja Wilson Foundation, Wilson has also been involved in other community service initiatives. She has participated in events with the Special Olympics. A’ja has also been a spokesperson for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Wilson advocates for social justice issues. She has used her platform to speak out on issues such as racial inequality and police brutality.
