A'ja Wilson Named AP Female Athlete of the Year Following Historic WNBA Season

Las Vegas Aces center A'ja Wilson has been named the Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year, a prestigious honor that recognizes her exceptional 2025 season and continued dominance in women professional basketball. The announcement comes on the heels of a record-breaking year in which Wilson not only led her team to another championship but also established new benchmarks for individual excellence in the WNBA.

Wilson remarkable 2025 campaign saw her average career-high numbers across multiple statistical categories while leading the Aces to their third consecutive WNBA title. Her performance throughout the season was nothing short of spectacular, combining offensive prowess with defensive excellence in a way that few players in league history have managed to achieve. The 28-year-old South Carolina product broke several long-standing WNBA records, including single-season scoring and rebounding marks that had stood for over two decades.

The AP award recognizes not just Wilson statistical achievements but also her leadership both on and off the court. Throughout the season, she served as a vocal advocate for women sports and used her platform to address important social issues affecting her community. Her ability to excel in high-pressure situations was particularly evident during the playoffs, where she elevated her game to help secure the championship for Las Vegas in dramatic fashion.

Wilson journey to this honor has been marked by consistent growth and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Since being drafted first overall by the Aces in 2018, she has transformed from a promising rookie into the unquestioned face of the franchise and one of the most recognizable athletes in women sports. Her work ethic and dedication to improving her craft have earned the respect of teammates, coaches, and opponents throughout the league.

The recognition also highlights the continued growth and popularity of the WNBA, with Wilson serving as one of the league primary ambassadors to mainstream sports fans. Her charismatic personality and engaging social media presence have helped bring new audiences to women basketball while inspiring the next generation of young athletes to pursue their dreams in sports.

As Wilson accepts this prestigious honor, she joins an elite group of female athletes who have been recognized for their exceptional achievements and contributions to their respective sports. The award serves as validation for her hard work and dedication while setting the stage for what promises to be continued excellence as she enters the prime years of her career with the championship-contending Aces.