A’ja Wilson will once again lead the Las Vegas Aces as they try to reclaim the throne when the new WNBA season begins in May.
Wilson won her third MVP plum last season after averaging career-highs of 26.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, 1.8 steals and 2.6 blocks. The Aces, however, lost to eventual champion New York Liberty, 3-1, in the semifinals in the playoffs, falling short of their quest for a three-peat.
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Las Vegas will have a new look in the backcourt after letting go of Kelsey Plum and acquiring Jewell Loyd in a three-team trade. The 28-year-old Wilson said she’s “super excited” to play with her fellow All-Star.
Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson is defended by Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese.Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
“Jewell is just a phenomenal person, and that’s what we love,” said Wilson in a report from Las Vegas Review-Journal’s Callie Fin in February. “We love good-character people in our locker rooms.”
But Wilson’s strong mindset is not limited to the hardwood. She has always been a vocal advocate of women empowerment. In an interview with TOGETHXR, a digital platform for women’s sports, the Aces star issued a bold remark.
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“I’m gonna always bet on a woman when it comes to getting things done because that’s what we do best,” said Wilson.
It didn’t go unnoticed. WNBA legend Swin Cash reposted Wilson’s strong comment on her Instagram story and sent a four-word message.
“I see you @aja22wilson,” wrote Cash, a three-time champion and four-time All-Star.
WNBA legend Swin Cash’s Instagram story.
Like Wilson, the 45-year-old Cash is outspoken regarding social issues, particularly about gun violence and racial discrimination. While playing for New York in 2016, she was fined $500 by the WNBA for wearing a “Black Lives Matter” shirt during warmups.
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Wilson, meanwhile, has also addressed sexism, hate and harassment, among other problems, in the WNBA.
The Aces will have an acid test right away when they open their campaign against the Liberty on May 17.
Related: A’ja Wilson Makes True Feelings Known About Future With Aces
Related: A’ja Wilson Silences NBA All-Star About Lowering WNBA Rim
