A’ja Wilson: The Rising Star on the Path to GOAT Status

In the world of sports, the term GOAT—an acronym for "Greatest of All Time"—is often thrown around with fervor and passion.

It signifies the pinnacle of achievement, reserved for those who have not only excelled but have redefined their sport. In women’s basketball, the conversation around GOAT status is heating up, particularly with the emergence of A’ja Wilson, the 2024 MVP and a seven-year veteran in the WNBA.

As the 28-year-old center for the Las Vegas Aces continues to shatter records and accumulate accolades, she finds herself in discussions that include legends of the game like Sheryl Swoopes, Lauren Jackson, and Lisa Leslie. Recently, former WNBA star Sue Bird weighed in on Wilson's potential to join the ranks of these icons.

Bird, a player whose own legacy is firmly established, emphasized that while Wilson is undeniably talented, there is one critical factor that will determine her ultimate status in the annals of basketball history.

In a recent episode of ‘A Touch More’ with Megan Rapinoe, Bird stated, “It’s just to me a word. I don’t get caught up in it. But if you are talking about building a resume that will exist among the greatest of all time...

A’ja will 1000% be in those conversations.” This acknowledgment from Bird highlights the importance of sustained excellence and achievement over time in earning GOAT status.

This season has been monumental for Wilson. She became only the fourth player in WNBA history to win three MVP awards and the second to do so with unanimous voting.

Moreover, she made history as the first player in league history to reach the 1,000-point mark in a single season. These accomplishments have solidified her position as one of the league’s elite players. Bird noted that Wilson already has a resume worthy of consideration among the best, stating, “She’s definitely of GOAT status.”

However, Bird also pointed out a crucial caveat: “Before your career is done, I can’t really call you a GOAT.” This sentiment reflects a common understanding that while talent and accolades are vital, longevity and consistency are equally important in defining greatness.

Wilson herself shares this perspective. In an interview earlier this year, she expressed her desire to be included in conversations about the greatest players but acknowledged that she still has much work to do.

“I would love to have my name mentioned in conversations when you’re talking about the greatest women’s basketball player ever to play. But in my eyes, I still have a lot more I have to do to even be in that conversation,” she said.

This humility is paired with an unwavering ambition; Wilson refers to herself as a “GOAT-in-Training.” Her coach, Becky Hammon, who played during the WNBA's formative years and is no stranger to greatness herself, has also taken notice of Wilson’s exceptional talent.

Hammon boldly declared, “This is going to be the GOAT of the GOATs. She’s that good.”

Hammon’s confidence in Wilson is rooted in her extensive experience playing against some of the greatest players in women’s basketball history. She remarked, “I played against all the GOATs,” and highlighted Wilson's unique ability to lead and inspire her teammates. “There ain’t nobody in the world like A’ja Wilson,” Hammon asserted.

With two consecutive WNBA championships under their belt and a strong roster supporting her, Wilson and the Aces are poised for another run at the title. The combination of Wilson’s talent and Hammon’s leadership creates a formidable force that could redefine what it means to be great in women’s basketball.

As Wilson continues her career, she is not only building her resume but also shaping the narrative around women’s basketball. Her achievements are drawing attention from fans and analysts alike, including luminaries from other sports such as Stephen Curry and LeBron James, who have publicly praised her contributions to the game.

In conclusion, A’ja Wilson stands at a pivotal moment in her career. With accolades piling up and a legacy waiting to be written, she is undoubtedly on a path toward greatness. Whether or not she ultimately earns the title of GOAT will depend on her performance in the years to come. For now, she remains a “GOAT-in-Training,” ready to embrace the challenges ahead and continue inspiring future generations of athletes. As she forges her path, one thing is certain: A’ja Wilson is a name that will be remembered in the annals of basketball history.