In an incredible 2024 season, Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson has added another significant achievement to her career in the WNBA.

The two-time MVP of the WNBA has made history by being the first player ever to score 1,000 points in a single season. She reached this milestone on Sunday during a home game against the Connecticut Sun. With just a few minutes left in the fourth quarter, Wilson made a fadeaway jumper from the elbow, which led to cheers from her teammates and the enthusiastic crowd.

Post-game celebrations were joyous as the Aces secured a solid 84-71 victory over the Sun. Wilson celebrated with her teammates and received the game ball from her parents.

This achievement came shortly after she broke the record for the most points in a season. Just days earlier, she surpassed Jewell Loyd’s previous record of 939 points set last season with the Seattle Storm during a game against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever.

Wilson is anticipated to be named the WNBA MVP this season, a title she previously earned in 2020 and 2022. She is currently leading the league with an average of 27 points and 2.6 blocks per game, while her 12 rebounds per game rank second in the WNBA, just behind Angel Reese, a rookie from the Chicago Sky. Wilson is also in contention for the single-season rebound record; she only needs three more rebounds in her last two games to claim it.

If she wins the MVP award again, Wilson will join the ranks of Sheryl Swoopes, Lisa Leslie, and Lauren Jackson as the fourth player in history to receive this honor three times.

Praise from A’ja Wilson’s Coach and Teammates

Aces head coach Becky Hammon expressed her desire for Wilson to reach the 1,000-point milestone in front of the home fans to receive the admiration she deserves.

“She’s a powerhouse on both ends of the court, which is a rare combination. Despite her success, she remains extremely humble and prioritizes her teammates and winning,” Hammon stated. “A’ja truly exemplifies what it means to make those around her better.”

Phoenix Mercury guard and fellow Olympic gold medalist Diana Taurasi commented after Sunday’s game against the Chicago Sky that Wilson is “redefining what it means to be a post player” and constantly improving her overall game.

“I’ve had the chance to see many players, and I confidently say she is the best rebounder I’ve ever witnessed, no contest. Securing the ball for your team gives them a better chance to win,” Taurasi conveyed. “She’s playing at an extraordinary level, driven by her love for the game.”

Contributing: Nancy Armour, Ellen J. Horrow