Can A’ja Wilson create a LeBron James-like legacy in the WNBA?

In sports, dynasties are common, with names that endure and legacies passed down from generation to generation. James is another name that attracts attention on its own, without the need for a last name. No need for a heraldic surname, he built his legacy on merit alone.

In the WNBA, A’ja Wilson is a name that often appears in the headlines. Now entering her sixth season, can A’ja Wilson create a LeBron James-like legacy in the WNBA?

Analyzing A’ja Wilson’s Previous WNBA Career

Before entering the WNBA, A’ja Wilson established a remarkable basketball legacy early in her career. She first showcased her talent on the court at Woodhall Episcopal School in Columbia, and it all started there. Wilson resumed his basketball career at the University of South Carolina after a stellar high school career.

She played for the Gamecocks and made a significant contribution to the team’s victory. Wilson’s contributions helped the university win the 2017 NCAA women’s basketball championship, a noteworthy accomplishment for both Wilson and the program. Wilson also won the title of Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Basketball Championship that year.

However, her most notable accomplishment came in 2018 when she won every available National Player of the Year award, including the Wade, AP, Honda, USBWA, Wooden and Naismith Trophies. The recognition was her proudest moment in college and officially recognized her status as the best player in women’s college basketball that year.

In 2018, at the age of 22, she stepped onto the WNBA stage and continued to dominate the court.

Aja Wilson begins her WNBA journey

A’ja Wilson was selected by the Las Vegas Aces with the first overall pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft. Wilson’s career has been nothing short of amazing since she first stepped onto a WNBA court. Her rookie season was a record-setting one, earning her a spot in the 2018 WNBA All-Star Game and being named the WNBA Rookie of the Year.

In 2019, Aja Wilson scored a career-high 39 points and played a key role in securing a playoff spot for the Aces, marking their long-awaited return to the playoffs. Wilson went above and beyond for his team during the 2020 season. When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the season, she not only stepped up but led the Aces brilliantly. At the end of the regular season, the Aces achieved an impressive record of 18 wins and 4 losses.

Wilson also had a stellar 2022 season, earning her first Defensive Player of the Year award and second MVP title. She leads the league with 17 double-doubles and impressive statistics across the board. Her efforts helped the Aces win their first WNBA championship. In 2023, Wilson set a new personal best with 53 points. In addition, she led the Las Vegas Aces toward their goal of a second consecutive championship.

But how does Aja Wilson stack up against LeBron James?

Compare their latest statistics

Aja Wilson set a career high of 22.3 points per game in the 2022-2023 season. Additionally, she has an astonishing 61.8 true shooting percentage in the 2022-2023 WNBA season, making herself one of the best offensive players in the league.

LeBron James, on the other hand, is known for being a prolific scorer. In the 2022-2023 season, he averaged 28.9 points per game. Not only is LeBron a phenomenal scorer, but he also makes a huge impact on the boards. He averaged 8.3 rebounds per game.

LeBron has had great performances throughout his career, and the 2022-23 season is no different. He averaged 6.9 assists per game and created scoring opportunities for his Los Angeles Lakers teammates. In addition, he disrupts the opponent’s game and initiates fast breaks 0.9 times per game.

Comparing statistics is one thing—the ability of these athletes to play amazing games is their defining characteristic. A great example is LeBron’s step-back jumper against the Thunder. This game made him the NBA’s all-time scoring leader with 61 points. Similarly, A’ja Wilson tied the league’s single-game scoring record with an astonishing 53 points. The Aces defeated the Atlanta Dream 112-100 to achieve this historic feat.

Can Aja Wilson leave a legacy in the NBA like LeBron James? It’s a question that raises expectations. While their statistics may differ, their impact on the game is clear.

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As A’ja Wilson’s career continues to evolve, we can’t help but wonder if she’ll carve out her own path to greatness — one that’s entirely her own, but one that’s not unlike LeBron James’ ) brings the same perfection to the NBA. Aja Wilson is undoubtedly a key player in determining the future of the WNBA. However, only time will tell if she can build a LeBron-like legacy in the WNBA.