A’ja Wilson’s 2024 season was nothing short of historic, and now she has secured her place among the all-time greats. She joins Cynthia Cooper-Dyke as the only other player to ever win the MVP unanimously. By becoming a three-time WNBA MVP, she also joins the exclusive club of legends that includes Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes, and Lauren Jackson. Yet, her incredible achievements this season have taken her to an entirely new stratosphere—redefining what dominance in the WNBA looks like.
At just 28 years old, Wilson has already cemented herself as one of the most unstoppable forces in the history of women’s basketball. In 2024, she became the first player in WNBA history to score over 1,000 points in a single season, setting an unprecedented mark in the league. She led the WNBA in scoring with 22.8 points per game, while pulling down 9.5 rebounds per contest and averaging an impressive 2.2 blocks. Her season was not just about stats; it was about an all-around leadership and presence on both ends of the court that made the Las Vegas Aces a formidable force. Wilson’s 2024 campaign will go down as one of the greatest single-season performances in the history of the sport.
Dominance on Both Ends of the Court
Offensively, A’ja’s scoring ability reached a new level this season. Whether it was in the paint or stretching the floor with her mid-range jumper, her offensive versatility kept defenders on their heels night after night. But her game is not just about putting points on the board. Wilson’s ability to control the game from the defensive end is just as important. Averaging 2.2 blocks per game, she was an impenetrable wall around the rim, intimidating opponents and altering shots with regularity.
Her leadership on the court also translated into team success. The Las Vegas Aces consistently performed at a championship level, with Wilson serving as the heart and soul of the franchise. Her relentless work ethic and ability to perform in the clutch gave her team the edge needed to secure victories throughout the season.
A Leader on the Global Stage
A’ja’s impact stretches beyond the WNBA. She was instrumental in leading Team USA to another Olympic gold, showcasing her talent on the world stage. When the pressure was highest, Wilson’s poise and dominance never wavered. Her ability to rise to the occasion, both for her WNBA franchise and for her country, proves that she is a leader who embraces challenges and exceeds expectations.
Joining an Elite Group
With her third MVP award, Wilson joins WNBA icons Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes, and Lauren Jackson, the only other players in league history to win the MVP three times. These women are not just great players—they are pioneers who elevated the WNBA to new heights. For A’ja Wilson to join their ranks is a testament to her consistent excellence and her ability to perform at an elite level year after year.
- Lisa Leslie: The first player in league history to dunk in a game, Leslie is a two-time champion and a three-time MVP who helped shape the early identity of the WNBA. Her all-around game and leadership made her the face of women’s basketball in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
- Sheryl Swoopes: Often referred to as the “female Michael Jordan,” Swoopes won three MVP awards and four championships with the Houston Comets. She was one of the WNBA’s most dynamic players, known for her lockdown defense and scoring ability.
- Lauren Jackson: The Australian superstar won three MVP awards and two championships with the Seattle Storm. Jackson was a trailblazer for international players in the WNBA, combining elite scoring with dominant defense.
- Cynthia Cooper-Dyke: A four-time WNBA champion and two-time MVP, Cooper-Dyke was the cornerstone of the Houston Comets’ dynasty in the late 1990s. Known for her incredible scoring ability, fierce competitiveness, and leadership, she became the first player in WNBA history to win back-to-back MVPs. Like Wilson, Cooper-Dyke was also a unanimous MVP, joining an elite few who dominated the league to such an extent that there was no debate about her status as the best. Her legacy remains as one of the greatest players to ever step foot on a WNBA court.
Now, Wilson’s name stands proudly alongside these titans of the game. But the scary part? A’ja’s story is still being written.
A Blueprint for the Future
What makes A’ja Wilson’s journey so inspiring is that she isn’t just breaking records—she’s changing the game. She’s showing the next generation of athletes what is possible when talent meets hard work and determination. Her rise to greatness didn’t come overnight, but through years of dedication, honing her skills, and staying true to her love for the game.
A’ja’s presence as a leader, on and off the court, speaks volumes about her character. Her achievements go beyond her stats and accolades—they are a beacon of possibility, especially for young Black athletes who look up to her. In every way, she represents Black excellence, showcasing what it means to chase greatness while staying grounded in community and purpose.
The Future of Basketball is A’ja Wilson
A’ja Wilson’s 2024 season will be remembered as a defining moment in her career, but it also marks a new chapter in the evolution of the WNBA. With three MVPs under her belt and no signs of slowing down, she is positioning herself as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
Her journey is far from over, and as she continues to break barriers and inspire, the world is watching. A’ja Wilson is not just a player. She is a movement. She is history in the making. And she is showing us all what it means to be truly unstoppable.
Black With No Chaser celebrates A’ja Wilson’s remarkable achievement and the inspiration she provides to athletes and fans around the world. As we continue to witness her greatness, we are reminded of the limitless possibilities that come with hard work, resilience, and belief in oneself. Congratulations A’Ja!