A’ja Wilson, center, of the Las Vegas Aces, led the team to an 18-4 record and the top seed in the upcoming WNBA playoffs. She was named AP Player of the Year on Tuesday. Mike Carlson/Associated Press
A’ja Wilson has been the cornerstone of the Las Vegas franchise since she was drafted and took her game to another level this season, earning her The Associated Press WNBA player of the year honors. The former No. 1 overall pick three years ago led the Aces to an 18-4 record during the shortened season and the top seed in the WNBA playoffs that begin Tuesday in Bradenton, Florida.
“She knows who she is, she knows where she’s going,” said Las Vegas Coach Bill Laimbeer. “She knows that she’s in charge, and she’s responsible for our team. She has taken this upon her shoulders.”
The 6-foot-4 Wilson, who turned 24 last month, averaged 20.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and two blocks this year for the Aces and views herself as a more all-around player now.
“I feel like I’m…
