ESPN REPORT: A’ja Wilson’s Historic 2024 WNBA Season and Her Enduring Commitment to South Carolina
In 2024, A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces delivered a season for the ages, solidifying her status as one of the greatest players in WNBA history. Her unparalleled performance not only earned her a unanimous MVP award but also highlighted her unwavering connection to her alma mater, the University of South Carolina.
A Season of Unprecedented Achievements
Wilson’s 2024 campaign was nothing short of extraordinary. She became the first player in WNBA history to score over 1,000 points in a single season, finishing with 1,021 points. Her dominance extended beyond scoring; she also led the league with 451 rebounds and 98 blocks, making her the first player to top all three categories in a single season. Additionally, Wilson set a new single-season scoring average record with 26.9 points per game, surpassing Diana Taurasi’s previous mark of 25.3 set in 2006 .
Her consistency was equally impressive. Wilson scored at least 20 points in 34 of her 38 games, including a record-setting streak of 15 consecutive games with 20 or more points. She also recorded the two highest-scoring games of the season, with 42 points against the Dallas Wings and 41 against the Phoenix Mercury .
Unanimous MVP Honors
Wilson’s historic season culminated in her being named the 2024 WNBA Most Valuable Player. She received all 67 first-place votes, becoming only the second player in league history to win the MVP unanimously, following Cynthia Cooper’s achievement in 1997. This marked Wilson’s third MVP award, tying her with legends Sheryl Swoopes, Lisa Leslie, and Lauren Jackson .
Leadership and Team Success
Beyond individual accolades, Wilson’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the Las Vegas Aces to a 27-13 record and securing the fourth seed in the playoffs. Despite challenges, including injuries to key players, Wilson’s resilience and performance kept the team competitive. Her contributions were pivotal in the Aces’ pursuit of a third consecutive championship .
International Excellence
Wilson’s excellence extended to the international stage, where she led Team USA to a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Her outstanding play earned her the tournament’s MVP honors, further cementing her status as a global basketball icon .
Enduring Commitment to South Carolina
Amid her professional success, Wilson has remained deeply connected to the University of South Carolina, where she played under coach Dawn Staley. In August 2024, she was honored with the Dawn Staley Community Leadership Award, recognizing her dedication to community service and positive impact off the court
Wilson’s commitment to her alma mater is evident in her ongoing involvement with the university and its basketball program. Her legacy at South Carolina continues to inspire current and future players, reflecting the profound influence she has had on the institution.
A’ja Wilson’s 2024 season stands as a testament to her exceptional talent, leadership, and dedication. Her historic achievements on the court, combined with her unwavering commitment to community and her alma mater, exemplify the qualities of a true sports icon. As she continues to excel, Wilson’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire generations to come.
