Wilson's MVP Form on Full Display in Finals Opener

A'ja Wilson reminded everyone why she is a perennial MVP candidate, delivering a masterful performance in the Las Vegas Aces' Game 1 victory over the Phoenix Mercury. Wilson was simply unstoppable, pouring in 21 points and grabbing 10 rebounds to record a crucial double-double. Her ability to score from all over the floor, combined with her relentless work on the glass, anchored the Aces' dominant performance and sent a clear message to the Mercury for the rest of the series. Her highlights from the night showed a player at the peak of her powers, scoring through contact, hitting mid-range jumpers, and controlling the paint on both ends.

From the opening tip, Wilson established her presence. She was the focal point of the Aces' offense, and the Mercury had no answer for her combination of size, skill, and determination. Whether she was posting up smaller defenders or facing up and driving to the rim, Wilson consistently created high-percentage looks for herself and her teammates. Her 10 rebounds were equally important, limiting Phoenix's second-chance opportunities and sparking the Aces' lethal transition game. It was a complete, two-way performance from the superstar forward.

This kind of performance has become expected from Wilson, who plays for the Las Vegas Aces. Throughout the 2025 season, she has been the team's undisputed leader. She finished the regular season averaging a double-double and was a finalist for both MVP and Defensive Player of the Year. Her consistency is her greatest asset; she brings the same level of intensity and production every single night, which is the engine that drives the Aces' success. Her leadership on and off the court has been instrumental in building the Aces' championship culture.

The Aces' roster is built to complement Wilson's talents perfectly. With guards like Chelsea Gray and Kelsey Plum running the offense, Wilson is consistently put in positions to succeed. The team's up-tempo style allows her to thrive in transition, while their half-court sets are designed to get her favorable matchups in the post. This symbiotic relationship between Wilson and her teammates is a key reason why the Aces' offense is so difficult to contain. They are a well-oiled machine, and Wilson is the main gear that makes it all run smoothly.

As the series progresses, the Mercury's primary challenge will be finding a way to slow down A'ja Wilson. They threw multiple defenders at her in Game 1 to no avail. If Phoenix hopes to make this a competitive series, they will need to devise a new strategy to limit her impact. However, as Wilson has proven time and time again, that is far easier said than done. Her Game 1 performance was a statement, and it has put the Aces in the driver's seat for their second consecutive WNBA title.