Las Vegas Aces’ A’ja Wilson dominates women’s basketball statistically and has multiple MVP, player of the year and other honors. As the WNBA’s No. 1 draft pick in 2018, she is also one of the most decorated women in college basketball.
At the University of South Carolina, she led her team to its first championship in 2017. She won player of the year three times in a row, a first in league history. Here are five facts about this two-time Olympian, who’s seeking her second gold medal at the Paris Games.
1. She has a statue in her honor
Wilson’s grandmother grew up four blocks from the University of South Carolina, but racism prevented her from walking on campus to get around Columbia. Now a statue stands in her granddaughter’s honor outside the Colonial Life Arena.
2. She is a bestselling author
“Dear Black Girls: How to be True to You” describes Wilson’s childhood and the village that helped her become the woman she is today. “Watching A’ja Wilson on the court is amazing, but to know her life story and all that she has overcome is witnessing poetry in motion,” Coach Dawn Staley said.
3. Her endorsements range from Ruffles to Nike
Wilson is the first female athlete to sign a deal with Ruffles, which includes her signature Smoky BBQ flavor for Ruffles Ridge Twists. She also has deals with Gatorade and Nike for her own logo, jerseys and signature shoe. Wilson graces covers on the WNBA edition of NBA 2K25 and All Star edition with Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics.
4. She owns a candle business
Growing up in Hopkins, South Carolina, Wilson and her mother found peace within candles. Burnt Wax Candle by A’ja Wilson has candles, sprays and oil diffusers. Each collection is named after an accomplishment such as Statue or Rookie of the Year.
5. She’s among Time’s 100 Most Influential People of 2024
Part of Wilson’s success derives from being a good person. “Her foundation supports children and families who struggle with dyslexia, a cause close to her heart,” Time notes. “A’ja is also an advocate against bullying, using her platform to spread awareness and promote kindness.”