A’ja Wilson: The Pinnacle of Women’s Basketball
Following A’ja Wilson’s triumph in the 2025 WNBA Finals, coach Becky Hammon sent a message to her star, comparing her to an elk, an image that symbolizes her dominance on the court. This metaphor, previously used, highlights Wilson’s uniqueness in basketball.
Wilson, leading the Las Vegas Aces, secured the championship with an outstanding performance, including a record of 31 points in the decisive fourth game. This achievement allowed her to obtain the Finals MVP title, solidifying her status as a dominant force in the league. The Aces’ victory, their third championship in four years, marks Wilson’s coronation as a legend. Her path to the top was not easy, facing challenges and learning from defeats, which made her the player she is today. In 2020, Wilson and the Aces reached the Finals for the first time, but were defeated. In the following season, a crucial play in the semifinals prevented their advance. Hammon, upon taking over as coach, recognized Wilson’s potential, challenging her to surpass her limits. Hammon saw in Wilson an “incredible” talent with room to grow. The coach envisioned Wilson as the best player in the game, highlighting her skills, athleticism, and ability to make the right decisions. Her influence has been key in Wilson’s development, who has proven to be an exceptional scorer, defender, and leader. Wilson’s dedication is reflected in his consistent play. His teammate, Jewell Loyd, highlights his ability to score and defend, as well as his impact on the team. Wilson’s hard work inspires his teammates to give their best in every game. After a complicated start to the season, Wilson led the Aces on a winning streak, demonstrating her adaptability and leadership. Her focus on match analysis and her competitive spirit propelled her to a new level, according to Hammon. In the final series against the Phoenix Mercury, Wilson proved her worth, securing the victory with an outstanding performance in the third game. Hammon, impressed by her ability to handle pressure, compared her again to an elk, highlighting her ability to overcome obstacles. Wilson’s performance in the Finals included 114 points and 322 in the postseason, setting league records. Her teammate Chelsea Gray praised her achievements, acknowledging that she has surpassed legendary players and set new standards in women’s basketball. Hammon, by awarding Wilson her fourth MVP award, placed her at the top of women’s basketball. With her third title in four years, Wilson has solidified her legacy, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the sport.“She will be the best who has ever played”.
Becky Hammon
