A’ja Wilson Named TIME’s 2025 Athlete of the Year After Historic WNBA Season
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TIME magazine announced tuesday, December 9, that Las Vegas Aces superstar A’ja Wilson has been named its 2025 Athlete of the Year, recognizing a season of unprecedented achievement and growing cultural influence. Wilson’s dominance on the court, coupled with her expanding presence off of it, has cemented her place in the “greatest ever” conversation – a position she now confidently embraces.
A Season of Firsts for the WNBA Champion
To characterize A’ja Wilson’s 2025 season as simply “dominant” would be an understatement. The 29-year-old secured her record fourth MVP award, was named Defensive Player of the Year, led the WNBA in scoring, earned another finals MVP honor, and led the aces to their third championship in four years. In doing so, she became the first athlete – in either the WNBA or NBA – to together claim a title, Finals MVP, league MVP, and Defensive Player of the Year.
The publication’s feature detailed a vibrant post-title celebration, with Wilson holding a tambourine, enjoying a pink slushy, and sporting a Thanos gauntlet, each “Infinity Stone” representing one of her accomplishments. “When you’ve collected everything, that’s Thanos,” she reportedly said. “And this year, I collected everything.”
Beyond the Court: Expanding Influence and Endorsements
Wilson’s accolades extend beyond the basketball court. Less than two months after leading the Aces to a championship sweep over the Phoenix Mercury in October – a series where she averaged 28.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, four assists, and two blocks – she has seen success in numerous ventures. She released her signature Nike A’One shoe, launched a clothing line, and became a New york times bestselling author with her memoir, “Dear Black Girls.”
Her influence is further amplified by endorsement deals, viral moments alongside cultural icons like Beyoncé and LeBron James, and a rapidly expanding global fanbase. This multifaceted success has propelled Wilson beyond the realm of sports, establishing her as a significant cultural figure.
Embracing the Legacy: The Michael Jordan Comparison
Wilson’s ambition is clear, and she isn’t shying away from lofty comparisons. When asked about her future championship aspirations, she stated, “I think I can do three more.” She then directly embraced the comparison to Michael Jordan.
Why: A’ja Wilson was named TIME’s 2025 athlete of the Year due to her unprecedented performance in the 2025 WNBA season and her growing influence beyond basketball.
Who: A’ja Wilson, the Las Vegas Aces superstar, is the athlete being recognized. The Phoenix Mercury were her opponent in the championship series.
What: Wilson achieved a historic season, winning her fourth MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, leading the league in scoring, earning Finals MVP, and leading the Aces to their third championship in four years. She also launched successful business ventures and became a cultural icon.
How: Wilson’s dominance on the court, combined with her expanding brand and cultural impact, led to the TIME recognition.She averaged 28.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, four assists, and two blocks in the championship series against the Phoenix Mercury.
It ended: The 2025 WNBA season concluded with the Las Vegas Aces winning the championship, solidifying Wilson’s historic year and leading to her selection as TIME’s Athlete of the Year.Wilson has stated her goal to win three more championships.
