A’ja Wilson’s Legendary Season: SI’s Player of the Year with a Legacy to Match
A’ja Wilson: The Ultimate All-Around Player Gets SI’s WNBA Player of the Year
by: D’Joumbarey A. Moreau
A’ja Wilson Shines in 2024, Earning SI’s Top Honor
When A’ja Wilson stepped onto the court this season, the basketball world knew greatness was coming. What no one could have predicted, though, was the historic dominance she would showcase. Her remarkable performance throughout 2024 has earned her the prestigious title of Sports Illustrated’s WNBA Player of the Year—a fitting recognition for one of the most complete seasons in league history.
A Season to Remember… & Then Some
For Wilson, this year wasn’t about maintaining her status as one of the best players in the game—it was about redefining what excellence looks like. As a three-time MVP and back-to-back champion with the Las Vegas Aces, her list of accolades was already elite. Yet in 2024, she reached another level entirely.
Why A’ja Took the Crown (and the Record Books) in 2024
Breaking records was only part of the story. Wilson’s scoring—an unprecedented 26.9 points per game—was not just prolific; it was efficient. She shattered the WNBA single-season scoring record, but what made this season truly extraordinary was her ability to elevate every aspect of her game.
While putting up these historic numbers offensively, she also dominated defensively, leading the league in rebounds and being a force in blocks and steals. The combination of offense, defense, and leadership made her an obvious choice for SI’s highest individual honor in the WNBA.
“She Does It All”… and Then Some More
“A’ja is the kind of player who doesn’t just get better—she transforms the game,” said Aces guard and teammate Jackie Young. “Even with all the pressure, she continues to show up and raise the bar. It’s inspiring to watch.”
From extending her shooting range to improving her playmaking, Wilson has evolved beyond the traditional role of a dominant post player. Her versatility, highlighted by her increased ability to shoot from midrange and beyond, added even more layers to her already dynamic game.
Legacy Season? More Like Legacy History
Wilson didn’t just break Diana Taurasi’s long-standing record for scoring. She obliterated it while maintaining elite efficiency and defensive impact. Her all-around excellence was highlighted by her Player Efficiency Rating (PER), one of the best in league history, narrowly trailing Lauren Jackson’s all-time record.
When placed in the context of other legendary seasons, Wilson’s numbers stand tall:
Player Year PER PPG RPG BPG APG
Lauren Jackson 2007 35.1 23.8 9.7 2.0 1.3
A’ja Wilson 2024 34.9 26.9 11.9 2.6 2.3
No other player has ever dominated across so many facets of the game in one season.
Award-Winning Impact: More Than Just Stats
Being named Sports Illustrated’s Player of the Year is about more than individual stats—it’s a reflection of her impact on the game. Wilson’s leadership has been instrumental in the Aces’ continued success, and her ability to elevate those around her cements her place as a generational talent.
What’s Next for A’ja? Spoiler: The Best is Yet to Come
A’ja Wilson’s journey is far from over. If her 2024 campaign proved anything, it’s that her potential knows no bounds. With her third MVP and now SI’s Player of the Year award under her belt, Wilson is already one of the greatest to ever play the game.
But knowing Wilson? She’s just getting started.
