A’ja Wilson, a star player for the Las Vegas Aces, revealed that she was quite emotional following a heated exchange with a fan during Game 2 of their first-round playoff series against the Fever.
Anticipated to receive her fifth WNBA MVP title this season, Wilson shared her thoughts on managing the situation after the Aces secured a 94-83 win over the Fever in the decisive Game 3 at Michelob Ultra Arena.
“Honestly, I have my days. I really had a moment there because, well, I’m human,” Wilson stated in a postgame interview. “But eventually, I realized I didn’t want to become a distraction for myself or my team. We had a job to do tonight, so I moved past it.”
“I prayed a lot. Cried a lot too, I guess. I talked to several people, and the love and support I received, along with some uplifting Bible verses, really reminded me that I’m supported,” she added.
“I can’t let anything else get to me. I’m really thankful for the people around me who lift me up. Once I set those feelings aside, I knew I had to step up for my team, and I’m glad we got the win.”
Wilson played phenomenally, scoring 36 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, helping Las Vegas advance to the next round.
During Game 2, she received a technical foul for unsportsmanlike conduct after confronting a Fever fan who got too close to her.
Fortunately for Wilson, a league review resulted in no further punishment for her actions.
The fan involved in the incident was initially escorted out but was allowed back into the venue after security determined there hadn’t been a violation of conduct rules.
In the aftermath, Wilson expressed that the fan’s behavior was “unacceptable.”
She later apologized to her teammates for the technical foul incurred during the Aces’ 99-89 loss.
Las Vegas is set to face the winner of the Golden State-Dallas series, with Game 3 being held in San Francisco on Friday.
The Aces are aiming to clinch their second consecutive championship.
