4-Time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson Honored as AP Female Athlete of the Year

A’ja Wilson Earns AP Female Athlete of the Year for Unprecedented Fourth WNBA MVP

A’ja Wilson once again dominated the WNBA, securing her fourth MVP title as the Las Vegas Aces captured their third championship in four seasons. Her outstanding achievements culminated in being named The Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year, marking a first-time honor in her career.

Wilson becomes only the fifth basketball player to receive this award since its inception in 1931. She joins legendary players such as Sheryl Swoopes, Rebecca Lobo, Candace Parker, and Caitlin Clark in an elite group. A panel of 47 sports journalists cast votes, with Wilson earning 17 of them, surpassing tennis star Aryna Sabalenka and basketball player Paige Bueckers.

Coached by Becky Hammon, Wilson’s unique blend of talent and humility stands out. Hammon praised her senior player’s skills and work ethic: "People always ask who’s on your Mount Rushmore? I’m saying she’s on Everest — there’s nobody up there with her." Wilson’s leadership was crucial in the Aces’ comeback from a midseason slump to secure the No. 2 seed and ultimately win the championship.

This season tested Wilson and her team as they began with a .500 record, nearly missing the playoffs after a record loss to Minnesota. Wilson viewed the experience as transformative, stating, "This season I found myself through the adversity and mud we went through." Statistically, Wilson led the league with 23.4 points and 2.3 blocks per game, elevating her performance in critical playoff moments.

Wilson also made history by becoming the first player in WNBA or NBA history to win MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Finals MVP, and lead the league in scoring all in the same season. Her ongoing success has propelled her into cultural prominence with a Nike shoe and clothing line that sold out shortly after release.

Her coach calls her "the easiest player to coach" due to her combination of skill, grace, and humility. Wilson’s exceptional season proves her status as one of basketball’s greatest, continuing to break records and inspire others.