A’ja Wilson’s recent performance against our very own Storm was nothing short of a stat sheet explosion, averaging 29.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, two steals, and 1.5 blocks across two Las Vegas Aces wins. This incredible run, coming right after the FIBA break, has South Carolina coach Dawn Staley declaring Wilson is already the greatest player in WNBA history. And if you don’t agree with that or her MVP chances? Staley says you can “argue with a wall.”
Nobody’s Ready For A’ja’s Unstoppable MVP Push
Staley, who coached Wilson at South Carolina from 2014 to 2018, isn’t holding back. She calls Wilson “the GOAT” and emphasizes that “there is nobody doing it like A’ja.” Wilson already holds the WNBA record with four MVP awards and is the heavy favorite to snatch her fifth, which would be her third consecutive, a first in league history. Remember 2023? Wilson infamously finished third in a tight three-way MVP race, even getting a fourth-place vote, and she wasn’t happy about it. Her response? Leading the Aces to another WNBA title and flexing with a T-shirt featuring the voting breakdown at the championship parade. That’s the kind of competitor we’re talking about.
Her Impact on Both Ends Is The Real Differentiator
What truly sets Wilson apart, according to Staley, is her unparalleled impact on both offense and defense. She’s currently leading the entire league in points and blocks per game, and she’s also rocking the top five in rebounds per game. Staley pointed out that while other players like Kelsey Mitchell and Olivia Miles have had great seasons, Wilson’s defense is the true game-changer. “If all things are the same, meaning your contributions, your impact on your team offensively, you need a differentiator,” Staley explained. “I do think A’ja’s defense is the differentiator and the separator.” Wilson had been battling some back issues, even missing Team USA’s World Cup run earlier this month due to health concerns. But since she came back from the FIBA break last week, she’s been absolutely unstoppable, especially against our Storm.
What This Means for A’ja’s Legacy
The reigning WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces are sitting third in the league standings with a 29-13 record, a testament to Wilson’s sustained brilliance. Her accomplishments have only continued to grow since her 30th birthday in August. As she barrels toward potentially her fifth MVP and third straight, Wilson is cementing a legacy that few, if any, players can match. Can anyone really stop this MVP train? Staley definitely doesn’t think so. It’s clear Wilson isn’t just playing; she’s rewriting the record books with every single game. Get ready to watch her make history, because she’s not slowing down.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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