The Las Vegas Aces claimed their third championship in four years on October 10. They swept the Phoenix Mercury 97-86 in a dominant performance. This victory places them alongside the Houston Comets as the only WNBA teams to achieve this remarkable feat.
A’ja Wilson led the charge in the league’s first-ever seven-game championship series. Her performance throughout the season was nothing short of extraordinary. The superstar forward cemented her legacy as one of basketball’s all-time greats.
A’ja Wilson Makes WNBA History with Unprecedented Season
Wilson achieved something no basketball player has ever accomplished before. She won the regular season MVP, Finals MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and scoring title in the same season. This historic sweep of major awards puts her in a class by herself.
The Finals MVP award marked Wilson’s second time earning that honor. She now joins an elite group of two-time WNBA Finals MVPs. The exclusive list includes Breanna Stewart, Sylvia Fowles, Diana Taurasi, and Lisa Leslie. Only Cynthia Cooper has won more Finals MVPs with four total.
Wilson set another league record during the playoffs. She scored more points in a single playoff run than anyone in WNBA history. Her 31-point, nine-rebound performance in the closeout game sealed the championship for Las Vegas.
Coach Becky Hammon Praises Wilson’s Greatness
Becky Hammon didn’t hold back when discussing her star player’s impact. The Aces coach believes Wilson has surpassed traditional comparisons. She placed Wilson in a category all her own.
“You have your Mount Rushmore, she’s alone on Everest,” Hammon said after the game. “There’s no one around.”
Hammon also praised the contributions of All-Star guards Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young. She acknowledged the difficult path to the Finals. The team faced more challenges than anyone expected this season.
Overcoming Adversity to Reach Dynasty Status
The road to the championship wasn’t smooth for Las Vegas. They struggled during the early months of the season. At times, their playoff hopes looked uncertain.
“I’m invested in their greatness and getting that out of them every day. This one hits different because it was different. There was probably a lot more adversity than any of us anticipated,” Hammon told reporters.
The team’s struggles peaked with an embarrassing 53-point loss to Minnesota on August 2. However, the Aces refused to fall apart. They maintained confidence in each other through the difficult times.
Chelsea Gray and A’ja Wilson’s Championship Partnership
Chelsea Gray highlighted the team’s resilience during tough moments. The veteran point guard emphasized their belief in one another. That trust helped them climb from fringe playoff contender to third seed.
“To be here right now, and where we were in May and June. We had confidence in each other. I’m just really proud of how we just stayed the course,” Gray told reporters.
The relationship between Gray and Wilson proved crucial to the team’s success. Wilson challenged Gray about her assist numbers at a key moment. That conversation sparked the run that transformed their season. Gray’s playmaking combined with Wilson’s scoring created an unstoppable combination.
Wilson’s Leadership Through Team Struggles
Backup point guard Dana Evans praised Wilson’s positive attitude during difficult stretches. The superstar became the emotional anchor for her teammates. She kept everyone focused and motivated when things looked bleak.
“She (Wilson) was the positive person (during our struggles),” Evans said. “She was the one sending texts, saying, ‘Hey, y’all, we good. Keep your heads up. Don’t get down on yourself.’ She’s just always been that positive.”
Wilson’s leadership extended beyond the court. She provided emotional support and encouragement throughout the season. Her steady presence helped the team navigate through their darkest moments. This championship run showed her growth as both a player and leader.
A’ja Wilson’s Path to GOAT Status
Aces team president Nikki Fargas made a bold prediction about Wilson’s legacy. She believes Wilson will retire as the greatest player in WNBA history. The evidence supporting that claim continues to mount.
“She’s a generational talent. A’ja Wilson, once finished playing, will be the GOAT,” Fargas said. “There’s not gonna be anything left for her to do. I just don’t want us to get tired of seeing and watching her greatness.”
Wilson’s iconic game-winning shot in Game Three showcased her clutch gene. She delivered when the pressure was highest. At just 28 years old, Wilson has already accomplished more than most players dream of achieving. Her dynasty with the Aces is just beginning.
