A’ja Wilson delivered a commanding defensive effort on Friday as the Las Vegas Aces defeated the Washington Mystics, advancing their 2025 season record to 2-1. Wilson dominated the game with 15 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, two steals, and three blocks, showcasing why she remains one of the league’s top players.
Wilson’s Impact on Both Ends of the Court
Though Wilson was not the leading scorer for the Aces in the matchup, her influence extended beyond points, energizing the team through her all-around contributions. The six-time All-Star’s consistent performance affirmed her position among the elite, especially with her defensive skills on full display throughout the early part of the season.
Rookies Show Promise Despite Aces’ Dominance
The Mystics were pushed to rely heavily on their rookies Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen against the championship-level opposition. Citron impressed with 19 points on an efficient 66.7% shooting from beyond the arc, while Iriafen contributed 17 points and 13 rebounds, signaling potential despite the team’s loss.
Wilson Reaches Milestone Among WNBA Block Leaders
During the game, Wilson recorded her third block, which propelled her into the WNBA’s top 10 all-time block leaders, surpassing Elizabeth Williams. Wilson now holds 447 blocked shots in her career, a testament to her defensive prowess. The ongoing competition between Wilson and Williams, who remains active with the Chicago Sky, adds an intriguing subplot to the season, as Williams already has two blocks this year.
Defensive Accolades Highlight Wilson’s Career
Wilson’s defensive reputation is well established—she has earned the Defensive Player of the Year award twice and notably captured both the MVP and Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2022. Her ability to influence the game defensively has been key to the Aces’ success, reflecting her status as one of the league’s most formidable defenders.
Upcoming Clash Between Las Vegas and Washington
The recent game marked the first meeting between the Aces and Mystics this season, but they will face off again on June 26. This matchup promises to be another test of Wilson’s defensive dominance and the Mystics’ developing roster.