The fact that A’ja Wilson is one of the greatest women’s basketball athletes can be validated by the long list of achievements next to her name. Another such proof in this respect came to the surface when the 27-year-old became the first WNBA player to feature on the cover of the deluxe edition of the NBA 2k25. While A’ja Wilson received several shoutouts soon after this particular announcement, the comments of her South Carolina mentor Dawn Staley hold a certain recognition.

She recently expressed her pride in A’ja Wilson while being interviewed by ESPN. Staley went on and said, “It’s awesome. A’ja’s been great. A’ja is probably the best player in the world. She’s marketable. I love to see my former players in the position to be the first in all sports.” 

The 2023 WNBA Finals MVP is chosen alongside Boston Celtics’ 5× NBA All-Star Jason Tatum as one of the two athletes on the NBA 2K25 cover. Earlier as well, Staley put forth her delight the moment this major announcement broke out. Through a tweet, the 54-year-old conveyed, “Do it do it do it @_ajawilson22! Super proud of you for raising the bar on and off the court! A true blessing to see your uncommon favor displayed.” 

In addition to this, the 4× WBCA National Coach of the Year also spared a thought or two on 3 of this year’s WNBA rookie class. These include the No.1 overall draft pick Caitlin Clark, Chicago’s ferocious No.5 Angel Reese and another one of her former proteges and Reese’s teammate Kamilla Cardoso. Staley further added, “The rookies I think are holding it down. They are bringing new eyeballs on the WNBA. It couldn’t have happened at a more perfect time.”

Meanwhile, A’ja Wilson also reflected on receiving this specific acknowledgment.

A’ja Wilson embraces the “big moment” 

A press release following this significant development in A’ja Wilson’s life displayed her emotions. She said, “Being featured on the NBA 2K25 cover is a big moment for me. It is a testament to the ever-growing fandom of the WNBA.” 

Wilson also added that the scanning of more women athletes in the 2K25 showcases the style and confidence that the league endorses. She is eager for the fans to experience it in the game. Moreover, A’ja Wilson will also be on the cover of the exclusive WNBA Edition developed by GameStop.

Indeed, a thrilling turn of events for A’ja Wilson. Hardly anyone would argue that her contributions deem her fit for this particular homage. What follows her more in the upcoming days? Only time will tell.

Stay tuned for more such updates. And to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud, Caitlin Clark’s Olympic snub, and more, watch this video.