A’ja Wilson Lands TIME Cover

Las Vegas Aces MVP A’ja Wilson is making headlines yet again, this time as one of TIME Magazine’s Women of the Year. The magazine praises Wilson as an “extraordinary leader” in women’s sports, highlighting her advocacy on mental health and equity in the WNBA. But in an era where sports should be about competition and excellence, is the push for “equity” just another distraction from the game?

Wilson, alongside Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, spoke to TIME about their journey in professional sports, their personal struggles, and the ongoing battle for equal recognition in women’s athletics. Wilson emphasized the importance of mental health awareness, stating that athletes are often perceived as “perfect human beings” with no struggles. While there’s no doubt that pressure exists, some might argue that today’s athletes spend too much time on activism and not enough time on dominating their respective sports.

Another hot-button issue Wilson touched on was the continued financial disparity between the WNBA and the NBA. While she’s made it clear that WNBA players deserve more, the reality remains: revenue dictates salaries. The NBA rakes in billions in sponsorships, TV deals, and ticket sales—something the WNBA has yet to match. Rather than demanding equal pay without equal profits, perhaps the focus should be on growing the league’s fanbase and marketability first.

Amidst the discussions on equity and activism, one thing is clear: Wilson remains loyal to Las Vegas. When asked about ever playing for another team, she was emphatic: “If I could retire an Ace, I would love to.” It’s refreshing to see an athlete committed to her team, especially in a time when loyalty in professional sports is becoming a rarity.

Wilson will be honored at TIME’s annual gala in Los Angeles next month, continuing her rise as one of the most recognized faces in women’s basketball. However, as the WNBA continues its push for greater prominence, the question remains: Should athletes focus more on their game or their message?

Source: News3LV