Aja Wilson has officially claimed one of the biggest honors in sports, beating Caitlin Clark for the 2025 TIME Athlete of the Year award. But what everyone is talking about even more is the strong message Wilson delivered to Clark and the entire WNBA community. Her words touched on history, respect, and the foundation of the league, sparking a new wave of discussion among fans.
Aja Wilson’s rise to TIME Athlete of the Year did not happen by chance. Her season was arguably the greatest individual campaign in WNBA history, with Wilson becoming the first player across both the NBA and WNBA to win a championship, Finals MVP, League MVP, and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season. Her résumé speaks for itself and TIME recognized the impact of her dominance.
But Wilson didn’t stop at celebrating the award. In her interview with TIME Magazine, she responded to comments Caitlin Clark made last year about how the league was built on Black women. Wilson made it clear she didn’t take it personally, emphasizing that she would continue winning regardless. Yet she shifted the conversation toward something deeper, reminding fans not to forget the women who carried the league through its toughest years.
Wilson stressed that history must never be erased, highlighting the sacrifices of veteran players who fought for visibility long before the WNBA exploded in popularity. She acknowledged that while Clark is a huge part of the league’s growth, the foundation was built long before the rookie sensation arrived. Her message was powerful and widely praised for its honesty.
Still, none of this takes away from Clark’s importance to the WNBA today. Her popularity continues to fuel massive TV deals, sold-out arenas, and stronger bargaining power as the league prepares for a new CBA. Clark’s influence remains undeniable, and even Wilson acknowledged that this new era of attention benefits everyone.
As the WNBA prepares for what could be its biggest season yet, the spotlight is no longer on one star alone. Paige Bueckers, Angel Reese, Aliyah Boston, Sabrina Ionescu, Brittney Griner, Sophie Cunningham, and many others represent an elite talent pool driving the league forward. The future is bright, but the outcome of the upcoming CBA negotiations will determine how soon fans get to enjoy the next chapter.
Comment Section Prompt
What do you think about Aja Wilson’s message to Caitlin Clark? Do you agree that WNBA history has been overlooked? Share your thoughts below.
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