23
Oct
4 min read
WNBA's Most Dominant Players: A'ja Wilson
Two-Time MVP, WNBA Champion and defensive powerhouse
• Two-time WNBA MVP (2020, 2022) and WNBA Champion (2022, 2023)
• 2023 WNBA Finals MVP and two-time Defensive Player of the Year
• Five-time WNBA All-Star and 2018 Rookie of the Year
A'ja Wilson, 28, has rapidly ascended to become one of the WNBA's most dominant and decorated players, revolutionising the power forward position with her versatile skillset and leadership.
Overview
A'ja Wilson has established herself as one of the most dominant forces in WNBA history in just six seasons. The 6'4" power forward for the Las Vegas Aces has accumulated an impressive array of accolades, including two MVP awards, two championships, and a Finals MVP trophy. Wilson's combination of scoring prowess, rebounding ability, and defensive skills make her a uniquely versatile player who impacts the game on both ends of the court.
Career snapshot
Drafted first overall by the Las Vegas Aces in 2018, Wilson immediately made her presence felt, winning Rookie of the Year. She has since been selected to five consecutive All-Star teams and named to multiple All-WNBA and All-Defensive teams. Wilson's individual success has translated to team success, leading the Aces to back-to-back championships in 2022 and 2023.
Playing style
Wilson's game is characterised by her smooth footwork, soft touch around the basket, and ability to score from multiple areas on the court. She excels in the post, using her strength and agility to outmanoeuvre defenders. Her mid-range jump shot is also a weapon, making her a difficult cover for opposing teams. Defensively, Wilson's length and timing make her an elite shot-blocker and rebounder.
Why A'ja Wilson is on our list
A'ja Wilson's impact on the WNBA cannot be overstated. Her combination of individual accolades and team success place her among the all-time greats, despite still being in the early stages of her career. Wilson's ability to dominate on both ends of the court, coupled with her leadership qualities, make her the cornerstone of a Las Vegas Aces dynasty.
Wilson's consistency is remarkable. She has scored in double figures in the vast majority of her games, frequently posting 20+ point performances. Her ability to elevate her game in crucial moments, as evidenced by her Finals MVP performance in 2023, further cements her status as one of the league's most dominant players.
Five Fast Facts
- Wilson holds the WNBA single-game scoring record with 53 points (tied)
- She recorded a league-record 29 games of 20+ points in the 2023 season
- Wilson is the only player in WNBA history to win MVP and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season (2022)
- She led the league in blocks per game in multiple seasons
- Wilson has already accumulated over 3,000 career points and 1,500 rebounds
Career highlights
2018: Drafted 1st overall by Las Vegas Aces, wins Rookie of the Year
2020: Wins first WNBA MVP award
2022: Leads Aces to first WNBA Championship, wins second MVP and Defensive Player of the Year
2023: Wins second WNBA Championship and Finals MVP, sets single-game scoring record
A'ja Wilson's trajectory suggests she will continue to dominate the WNBA for years to come, potentially establishing herself as the greatest player in league history. Her combination of individual brilliance and team success make her an undeniable force in women's basketball, and her impact on the sport will be felt for generations.
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