Can A?ja Wilson Create a LeBron James-Like Legacy in WNBA?

In the realm of sports, dynasties are common, with names that endure throughout history and legacies passed down from one generation to the next. James is another name that can draw attention on its own and does not require a surname. Without the need for surnames bearing coats of arms, he has established his legacy based solely on his own merit.

In the WNBA, A’ja Wilson is a name you often see in the headlines. Playing in her sixth season now, can A’ja Wilson create a LeBron James-like legacy in the WNBA?

Breaking down A’ja Wilson’s pre-WNBA career

A’ja Wilson had already established a remarkable basketball legacy in her early career before entering the WNBA. She first displayed her talent on the court at Heathwood Hall Episcopal School in Columbia, where it all started. Wilson resumed her basketball career at the University of South Carolina after an exceptional high school career.

She played for the Gamecocks and contributed significantly to the team’s triumph. Wilson’s contributions assisted the University in winning the 2017 NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship, a noteworthy accomplishment for both Wilson and the program. Wilson also received the NCAA Basketball Tournament Most Excellent Player title that year.

However, her most notable accomplishment came in 2018 when she won every National Player of the Year award available, a feat that includes the Wade, AP, Honda, USBWA, Wooden, and Naismith trophies. This recognition stands out as her proudest moment in college and formally acknowledges her status as the best player in women’s college basketball that year.

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It was then time for the 22-year-old to set foot on the WNBA stage in 2018 where she continued her domination on the floor.

A’ja Wilson begins her WNBA journey

A’ja Wilson, the standout player was selected first overall by the Las Vegas Aces in the 2018 WNBA draft. Since she first stepped onto a WNBA court, Wilson’s career has been nothing short of amazing. Her rookie season was one for the records with her outstanding play securing her a berth at the 2018 WNBA All-Star Game and the title of WNBA Rookie of the Year.

In 2019, A’ja Wilson achieved a career-high 39 points and played a pivotal role in securing a playoff spot for the Aces, marking their long-awaited return to the postseason. In the 2020 season, Wilson went above and beyond for her team. She not only stepped up but also led the Aces admirably when the COVID-19 pandemic truncated the season. By the end of the regular season, the Aces had an impressive win-loss record of 18-4.

Wilson had an outstanding 2022 season too, earning her first Defensive Player of the Year award and her second MVP title. She led the league with 17 double-doubles and impressive stats across the board. Her efforts helped the Aces win their first-ever WNBA championship. In 2023, Wilson set a new personal best with a 53-point game. Furthermore, she is leading the Las Vegas Aces toward their prospective second consecutive championship run.

But how does A’ja Wilson stand against LeBron James?

Comparing their latest statistics

A’ja Wilson established a career-high of 22.3 points per game in the 2022-2023 season. Furthermore, she also has an astounding 61.8 true shooting percentage in the 2022?2023 WNBA season, establishing herself as one of the best offensive players in the league.

LeBron James, on the other hand, has a reputation for being a prolific scorer. He averaged 28.9 points per game in the 2022-2023 season. LeBron is not just a phenomenal scorer, but he also makes a big difference on the boards. He has averaged 8.3 rebounds per game.

LeBron has made plays throughout his career, and the 2022?23 season was no exception. He opened up scoring opportunities for his LA Lakers teammates by dishing out 6.9 assists per game. Furthermore, he disrupted opponents’ plays and started fast breaks 0.9 times a game on average.

Comparing statistics is one thing – the ability of these athletes to produce stunning plays characterizes them. A great example is LeBron’s step-back jumper against the Thunder. This game elevated him to the position of the NBA’s all-time leading scorer with 61 points. Similarly, A’ja Wilson tied the league’s record for most points scored in a single game with an amazing 53 points. The Aces defeated the Atlanta Dream 112-100 to achieve this historic feat.

Can A’ja Wilson leave a legacy in the WNBA like LeBron James in the NBA? It’s a question that sparks anticipation. Their influence on the game is evident, despite the fact that their stats may vary.

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As A’ja Wilson’s career continues to unfold, we can’t help but wonder if she will forge her own route to greatness?one that is wholly her own but bears the same weight of perfection that LeBron James has brought to the NBA. A’ja Wilson is unquestionably a key player in determining the WNBA’s promising future. However, only time will tell if she can build a LeBron-like legacy in the WNBA.