A’ja Wilson: Olympian. Certified It Girl. HERstory Maker.

by nxus Writer, Ashley Mozingo, MBA

Photo from: Jen Hatmaker Podcast

A'ja Wilson has become a household name in women's basketball, known not only for her remarkable skills on the court but also for her influence and advocacy off the court. Since being drafted as the first overall pick in 2018 by the Aces, Wilson has achieved remarkable success. She won the WNBA Rookie of the Year award and earned an All-Star selection in her first season. Wilson's career highlights include winning the MVP award in 2020 and 2023, alongside multiple playoff appearances and a WNBA Championship victory.

Early Stats

Born on August 8, 1996, in Hopkins, South Carolina, A'ja Wilson grew up with a passion for basketball. Her talent quickly became evident, and she earned a scholarship to play at the University of South Carolina under the guidance of legendary coach Dawn Staley. During her college career, Wilson led the Gamecocks to their first NCAA Championship in 2017, cementing her status as one of the top players in the nation.

NCAA Archives

In 2018, A'ja Wilson was the first overall pick in the WNBA Draft, selected by the Las Vegas Aces. From her rookie season, she demonstrated her scoring finesse, defensive skills, and leadership on the court. In 2020, Wilson was named the WNBA MVP, a testament to her hard work and dedication.

Wilson’s influence was pivotal in leading the Aces to their first WNBA Championship in 2022. Her ability to dominate games with her athleticism and strategic play has made her a fan favorite and a respected leader in the league.

A'ja Wilson's impact extends beyond the WNBA, as she has represented Team USA in international competitions. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, she played a crucial role in securing a gold medal for her country, showcasing her ability to excel on the world stage.

A’ja The Olympian

A'ja Wilson has been a force for Team USA at the Paris Olympics, helping the team to a 3-0 record through group play with an average margin of victory of 19.33 points.

Wilson is leading the Paris Olympics in combined steals (6) and blocks (6), adding 9.7 rebounds per game. She helped Team USA finish the group stage strong, scoring more than 20 points with more than 10 rebounds in the team's final two wins before moving on to the quarterfinal round.

Advocacy and Philanthropy

Off the court, Wilson is a passionate advocate for social justice and equality. She uses her platform to address racial injustice and gender inequality, making her a powerful voice in the fight for change. In addition, she founded the A'ja Wilson Foundation.

A'ja Wilson and her parents, Roscoe and Eva Wilson, founded the A'ja Wilson Foundation (AWF) with a mission to support children and families affected by dyslexia. The foundation provides educational programs, workshops, and camps to help these individuals reach their full potential. Additionally, AWF aims to combat bullying by promoting compassion and inclusivity among students through education and mentoring, encouraging them to empower their peers positively.

Unapologetic Girls Summit March 2024  |  Las Vegas, CA

Achievements and Impact

A'ja Wilson's list of achievements is impressive, but her impact extends beyond trophies and awards. She is a trailblazer in women's sports, inspiring a new generation of athletes to pursue their dreams fearlessly. Her success has contributed to a larger conversation about representation and empowerment, particularly for women of color in sports.

Via @ESPN YouTube: 

Via @SoleRetriever Twitter (X): 

(A’ja Wilson’s reaction to the news of her Nike Colorways hitting the Internet.)

A'ja Wilson is not just a star on the court but a leader and role model off the court. Her story is one of perseverance, talent, and impact, resonating with fans and aspiring athletes worldwide. As she continues to break barriers and set new standards, Wilson's legacy will be felt for years to come.