BET Awards 2024: Who is A’ja Wilson? 7 Things to Know About the ‘Sportswoman of the Year' Nominee
A'ja Wilson has solidified her status as one of the most influential figures in women's basketball thanks to her extraordinary talent, leadership, and dedication both on and off the court.
As a star player for the Las Vegas Aces, she has earned multiple MVP titles and led her team to championship glory. Beyond her impressive athletic achievements, Wilson has become a powerful advocate for social justice, gender equality, and support for individuals with learning disabilities through her foundation.
Wilson’s nomination for the "Sportswoman of the Year Award" at the BET Awards 2024 reflects her significant influence on basketball and her steadfast dedication to creating positive change.
Tune in on Sunday, June 30th, at 8 p.m. when Culture’s biggest party returns. And remember to check out the BET Experience 2024, Presented by Walmart, when it returns on June 26 for the first time in five years. It’s a week-long celebration featuring star-studded performances, comedy shows, thought-provoking panels, and hands-on workshops to immerse you in the heart of the cultural revolution. For BET Experience, Presented by Walmart tickets, click here.
Her father coached her as a kid
In the past, Wilson has admitted that her skills did not come naturally. Her father, Roscoe Wilson Jr., played professional basketball in Europe for over a decade. During a November 2020 appearance on NPR’s Wait Wait . . . Don’t Tell Me!, she admitted, “And my dad was my coach. So I knew I was not good at basketball when my own father wouldn't play me.”
She’s earned multiple WNBA Honors
Wilson was named WNBA Rookie of the Year in 2018, shortly after being drafted. Two years later, the star earned the WNBA MVP in 2020 and again in 2022, recognizing her outstanding performance and impact on the game.
She’s gotten the gold
In addition to her WNBA success, Wilson won a gold medal with Team USA at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics. Her contributions were pivotal in helping the team maintain its legacy of excellence on the global stage.
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She created a foundation to help children with disabilities
In school, Wilson faced academic challenges. It wasn't until her sophomore year of high school that she was diagnosed with dyslexia.
She remained quiet about her condition, but she eventually shared her struggles in a personal essay published in the Player's Tribune in March 2018. The following year, she established the A'ja Wilson Foundation, which offers resources for children with learning disabilities.
She has a killer sense of style
Known for her stylish looks off the court, Wilson has become a fashion icon in the sports world. Notably, she’s sported jersey dresses of iconic WNBA players ahead of her Las Vegas Aces games. She has worn Lisa Leslie’s high school jersey, Sheryl Swoopes’ Houston Comets jersey, and Nikki McCray’s San Antonio Stars jersey.
She made Time’s prestigious 100 list
Last April, the decorated athlete was named Time’s 100 Most Influential People 2024. The outlet wrote, “Her championship mentality not only secures her place in sports history but also cements her legacy of greatness that extends far beyond the realm of sports,” noting, “And the best part is, she’s just getting started. She continues to push boundaries and inspire others with her remarkable journey.
Tune in to the BET Awards 2024 on Sunday, June 30 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET.
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