A’ja Wilson’s Historic Fifth MVP Win and Basketball Legacy

On Thursday, A’ja Wilson reached a new milestone in her basketball career, becoming the WNBA’s first five-time MVP. This achievement marks her third consecutive MVP award, setting a league record for three back-to-back wins. Over the past five years, Wilson has claimed four MVP titles, solidifying her status as one of basketball’s all-time greats.

Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon lauds Wilson’s exceptional achievements, positioning her among basketball legends. Aside from her WNBA accolades, Wilson’s triumphs include an NCAA Division I championship win at South Carolina.

In a thrilling overtime victory, the Dream moved within reach of their first WNBA Finals appearance since 2013. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert presented A’ja Wilson with the 2024 MVP award during a news conference. Wilson achieved unanimous victory, previously winning in 2020 and 2022.

“Take her off Mount Rushmore — she’s Everest,” Hammon remarked during the playoffs. “Now I’m taking her off Everest, and I have to put her on a different planet. She just has all of it.”

Hammon underscores that Wilson’s success extends beyond individual skill, emphasizing the necessary combination of talent, team success, and consistent individual greatness.

Wilson’s impressive performance continues despite not having the most statistically striking season. She led the WNBA in scoring with 26.2 points per game and topped the league with 79 blocks. Her rebounding strength was evident, ranking within the top five during the regular season. Angel Reese from Atlanta Dream led with 12.1 rebounds per game, earning the 2026 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year award.

Wilson’s fifth MVP places her among legendary basketball icons. In WNBA history, Wilson surpassed Hall of Famers Sheryl Swoopes, Lisa Leslie, and Lauren Jackson, who won multiple MVPs between 2000 and 2010. Only Bill Russell, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Michael Jordan have earned at least five MVPs in NBA history. With this achievement, Wilson joins this elite group.

Reflecting on her success, Wilson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to set standards and make history. “If you’re able to set a standard and rewrite things, and kind of etch yourself into history books, it means a lot,” Wilson stated. “I’m so grateful that I can share these moments with so many different people.”

A’ja Wilson garnered overwhelming support as MVP, receiving all but nine first-place votes. Olivia Miles from Minnesota Lynx secured second place, with six first-place votes. Indiana Fever’s Kelsey Mitchell followed with two, while Caitlin Clark, Mitchell’s teammate, received one.

Wilson’s current challenge is leading the Aces into uncharted territory. They aim to become the first WNBA team to overcome a 2-0 deficit against the Golden State Valkyries in a best-of-five playoff series. If successful, Wilson’s comeback will further engrave her legacy in basketball history.

Game three takes place on Friday night as the series continues in Las Vegas.

Chantz Martin is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.