Aces’ A’ja Wilson Becomes Second Unanimous MVP in WNBA History, Cementing Legacy
General Overview
The history of the WNBA traces back to its founding in 1996. Annually, the league has celebrated outstanding player performances with the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. This accolade has been bestowed upon some of the sport’s most incredible athletes, including A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces.
In 2024, Wilson achieved the rare feat of becoming the second unanimous MVP in WNBA history, joining an exclusive club with Cynthia Cooper from 1997.
In the evolution of the WNBA, winning the MVP award as a unanimous choice stands out. This achievement acknowledges a season of remarkable performances that left an indelible mark on the league.
The 2024 MVP voting saw A’ja Wilson collecting all 67 first-place votes, topping the list with 670 points. Her closest competitor, Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx, garnered 467 points, while Breanna Stewart from New York rounded out the top three with 295 points.
Wilson’s 2024 season is celebrated not just for her MVP award but for setting a new record of scoring 1,021 points. Her achievement was significant enough to surpass the previous high held by Diana Taurasi.
Alongside her scoring, Wilson achieved a league record in rebounds with 451, solidifying her as a force on both ends of the court. Her prowess extended to averaging 26.9 points per game and leading in blocks with an average of 2.6 per game.
Player efficiency rating and win shares are crucial metrics that reflect a player’s contribution to their team’s victories. Wilson led the league with a player efficiency rating of 34.9 and recorded 10.9 win shares, reinforcing her dominance.
These feats contributed significantly to the Las Vegas Aces’ performance and placed Wilson among an elite group of three-time MVP winners, including legends like Sheryl Swoopes, Lisa Leslie, and Lauren Jackson.
Wilson’s determination and competitive spirit propelled her to the top this season. Her focus and dedication were evident as she consistently delivered high-level performances during the regular season.
Setting the bar high, she achieved game scores surpassing 40 points twice, and 30 or more points in nine other games throughout the season. Her consistent ability to score 20 points in 89.5% of her games is unparalleled in WNBA history.
The Aces have found a leader in Wilson, whose influence extends beyond scoring and rebounding. Her leadership qualities shine as she inspires her teammates, fostering an environment of excellence.
This drive has been pivotal in securing the Aces’ victories in previous seasons, capturing WNBA titles in 2022 and 2023. Her contribution in the Finals earned her the title of Finals MVP in 2023, showcasing her capability to perform under pressure.
In the context of the 2024 playoffs, the Aces entered as the fourth seed. Their quest for another championship commenced with a series against the Seattle team.
Wilson’s role was central as she led her team into the playoff series, aiming to extend their winning streak into another fruitful postseason. The championship run served as an opportunity for Wilson and the Aces to further etch their names in WNBA history.
Wilson’s journey from her selection as the No. 1 draft pick in 2018 to Rookie of the Year and now a three-time MVP reflects her dedication and skill. Her contributions to the game continue to inspire aspiring athletes.
At 28, she also plays an integral role internationally, having won her second Olympic gold medal with the USA team.
Basketball enthusiasts eagerly watch Wilson, anticipating her every play and noting her impact on games. Though her accomplishments are numerous, Wilson remains focused on her ultimate goal: leading the Aces to yet more glory on the court.
Driven by her motto to elevate both herself and those around her, Wilson sets a standard in the WNBA that resonates with players, fans, and the larger basketball community. Her journey is characterized by enduring commitment, reflected in every dribble, pass, and shot she undertakes.
