Phoenix — Aja Wilson, the ace star, is making waves as a 29-year-old four-time league MVP, two-time WNBA champion, and two-time Olympic gold medalist.
And she embraces that status.
Her teammates describe her as lovable but also, well, tough. Coaches consider her something special. Family, friends, and fans can’t help but adore her.
What truly sets Wilson apart is her ability to instill fear in opponents, akin to a powerful predator eyeing its next meal.
Standing at 6 feet 4 inches, she dominates in the paint, making it hard for rivals to approach. When she has the ball, it almost feels like the game is decided.
Jewel Lloyd has been fortunate to share the court with such exceptional talent, having won championships alongside legends like Sue Bird and Brianna Stewart, even being mentored by the late Kobe Bryant.
Yet, Wilson’s unique blend of strength and presence is unmatched. Even the boldest competitors find it hard to cope.
“Looks like a lion, right?” remarked Lloyd, noting how intimidating Wilson can be. “It’s impressive, and she carries it with grace. It’s not about showing off; it’s just who she is.”
Now, Wilson is on the brink of her third title in four years and has recently snagged her fourth MVP award.
Last week, in the series opener, Wilson contributed 21 points and 10 rebounds. Mercury’s coach, Nate Tibbets, acknowledged the challenge posed by elite players. In Game 2, she excelled yet again, scoring 24 points and grabbing 14 rebounds.
With the series at 2-0, the WNBA Finals shifts to Phoenix, where Alyssa Thomas and her team are desperate to avoid a sweep.
Slowing Wilson down is key, but she showed little mercy after celebrating with drinks post-game.
What does Thomas suggest?
“Every shot has to be made difficult,” she said, recognizing the uphill battle.
If only it were that simple.
Coach Tibbets felt they had managed to limit Wilson’s impact in Game 1, but things fell apart when Thomas got into foul trouble in Game 2—a situation Wilson seized on mercilessly.
“She’s so incredibly skilled that we can’t afford to give her easy opportunities, and that’s what happened,” Tibbets noted. “Things will only intensify in Game 3.”
That’s the lingering hope.
For the Aces, it’s thrilling to witness Wilson’s dominance night after night.
Chelsea Gray has been in awe for five years. “I’m never surprised,” she shared. “She’s simply amazing on both sides of the court. I feel grateful to be part of it.”
Coach Becky Hammon emphasized the importance of appreciating Wilson’s greatness, saying, “This year it’s like, ‘Oh, she scored 35 points,’ but that’s just become normal for her.” Her ability to shine on both ends during a game is something few can match.
Wilson is a player who transcends the court, inspiring future generations—a legend known by name or even recognized with a goat emoji.
Since the days of Cynthia Cooper, Cheryl Swoopes, and Tina Thompson lighting up the league with the Houston Comets, Wilson has brought unparalleled success to the Aces.
For Las Vegas to maintain this momentum, Wilson must keep performing at her peak.
“She has a deep understanding of the game,” said Lloyd. “She knows when to make a crucial stop or block. That’s where her skill lies. So, if our best player is on the floor, there are no excuses. We all recognize the sacrifices she makes, and we have to keep pushing forward regardless.”
