A'ja Wilson Named One of Time's 100 Most Influential People, Garners Praise from Tom Brady

Oct 18, 2023; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Las Vegas Aces forward A'ja Wilson (22) and owner Mark Davis.
Oct 18, 2023; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Las Vegas Aces forward A'ja Wilson (22) and owner Mark Davis. / Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

There is a sense, as the WNBA nears tip-off of its 28th season, that the league's old guard is being overshadowed by its once-in-a-lifetime draft class.

However, before players like Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese become stars, they will have to get through Las Vegas Aces forwad A'ja Wilson.

On the heels of her second WNBA title in 2023, Time named Wilson to its list of the world's 100 most influential people. Former New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady, a part owner of the Aces, wrote an essay for the publication praising her accomplishments.

"A’ja Wilson is not just an incredible athlete, she is also an inspiration to all who witness her talent and drive. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion and fearlessness in achieving greatness," Brady wrote.

In six seasons in the WNBA, Wilson has won two championshps and two MVP awards while making five All-Star teams. She also has a college championship, an Olympic gold medal, and two FIBA World Cup titles on her resume.

"A’ja Wilson is not just a champion; she is a symbol of resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Her story is a reminder that with passion and fearlessness, anyone can achieve greatness," Brady wrote.


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Patrick Andres
PATRICK ANDRES

Patrick Andres is a staff writer on the Breaking and Trending News team at Sports Illustrated. He joined SI in December 2022, having worked for The Blade, Athlon Sports, Fear the Sword and Diamond Digest. Andres has covered everything from zero-attendance Big Ten basketball to a seven-overtime college football game. He is a graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism with a double major in history .