Photo Credit:The Associated Press
In a surreal moment for women's basketball, A'ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces became the first player in WNBA history to score 1,000 points in a single season. The historic achievement came during the Aces' 84-71 victory over the Connecticut Sun on September 15, 2024, at Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas.
Wilson's milestone basket, a pull-up jumper from the elbow with two minutes remaining in the game, not only secured her place in the record books but also capped off a dominant 29-point performance. The achievement prompted an immediate timeout, allowing her teammates and the 9,500-strong crowd to celebrate the momentous occasion.
"It's surreal," Wilson said in a post-game interview. "To be the first to do something in this league, with so many great players who have come before me, it's truly an honor."
The 27-year-old forward's exceptional season has been marked by consistency and offensive prowess. Wilson surpassed Jewell Loyd's previous single-season scoring record of 939 points earlier in the week, setting the stage for Sunday's milestone. Her scoring average of 23.8 points per game has been instrumental in the Aces' successful campaign.
Aces head coach Becky Hammon praised Wilson's work ethic and impact on the team. "A'ja embodies everything we strive for as an organization," Hammon stated. "Her dedication to improving every aspect of her game has been remarkable."
The historic performance has reignited discussions about the evolving landscape of women's basketball. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert commented on the significance of Wilson's achievement, saying, "A'ja's 1,000-point season is a testament to the incredible talent in our league and the growing platform for women's sports."
Wilson's record-breaking season has coincided with a surge in popularity for the WNBA. Television ratings for the 2024 season have increased by 18% compared to the previous year, according to Nielsen data. Merchandise sales featuring Wilson's name and number have reportedly skyrocketed in the wake of her accomplishment.
As the regular season winds down, Wilson's focus remains on team success. The Aces' victory over the Sun solidified their position as the fourth seed in the upcoming playoffs, with a one-game lead over the Seattle Storm. Las Vegas has won seven of its last eight games, building momentum at the perfect time.
The impact of Wilson's achievement extends beyond the court. Former NBA star and Wilson's mentor, Kobe Bryant, had predicted her success years ago. In a 2020 interview, Bryant stated, "A'ja has the potential to redefine scoring in the women's game. Her ceiling is limitless."
