Despite widespread speculation, Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson remain widely regarded as the two premier players in the WNBA, with their dominance on both offense and defense setting them apart. Speaking on Sue Bird’s Bird’s Eye View podcast, Stewart addressed questions surrounding the rivalry narrative with Wilson, emphasizing mutual respect rather than conflict.

The New York Liberty star acknowledged the media’s tendency to craft stories about their relationship but made it clear that competition between them is rooted in admiration. Stewart praised Wilson’s growth since entering the league, especially highlighting improvements seen during the bubble season that have strengthened her game year by year.

“Yeah, I mean, A’ja and I have like tons of respect for one another… her game is incredible,” Stewart said. “There’s always a story trying to be written about us.

“We’re getting better every year. Even the way A’ja’s game has developed since she came into the league, especially during the bubble season — she just keeps adding things.”

Stewart, a three-time WNBA champion, noted that following Wilson’s first MVP award in 2020, both players recognized their growing responsibility to elevate the league’s competitive and skill level.

“I feel like at that point, especially by 2020, we knew we were going to be the ones pushing this thing forward, especially from a skill level standpoint,” she added. [Timestamp 46:25]

Beyond league play, Stewart and Wilson have forged a strong partnership as teammates on Team USA at the Tokyo and Paris Olympics, securing gold medals both times. They have also contributed to two FIBA World Cup gold medal victories.

A’ja Wilson Acknowledges the Rivalry but Denies Any Real Conflict

Before Stewart’s comments, A’ja Wilson spoke about the supposed rivalry on The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis, providing her perspective on their relationship. Wilson described a long-standing competitive dynamic between herself and Stewart but dismissed any notion of animosity.

I love it,” Wilson said. “Stewie and I have been playing against each other for a long, long time. It’s crazy to think we kind of grew up with this little rivalry. At the same time, we’re still cool, and I feel like that’s what makes it that much better.”

Wilson emphasized that the narrative of “beef” is a fabrication by the media, and in reality, their competition pushes them both to improve.

“It’s not beef. Media can make it a beef,” Wilson said. “Anybody can make it a beef. But when you see us, we’re making each other better every single possession. …That’s what our game and our league need.” [Timestamp 38:30]

She further expressed admiration for Stewart’s collegiate achievements, noting Stewart’s four NCAA titles as a benchmark of excellence. Wilson also acknowledged the college basketball rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese yet maintained that Stewart stands among the greatest athletes in college basketball history.

Shared Success at the Highest Levels of Women’s Basketball

Wilson and Stewart have dominated recent WNBA award and championship histories. Together, they represent five of the last seven MVP awards and have been instrumental in securing the last three WNBA titles. Their sustained performances have shaped the league’s present and future.

As two of the most skilled and decorated players in women’s basketball, their friendly rivalry continues to inspire fans and elevate the sport’s profile. Their joint efforts, both as competitors and collaborators on national teams, highlight a dynamic where mutual respect drives excellence rather than personal animosity.

Looking ahead, as both Stewart and Wilson continue to build on their legacies, the WNBA can expect a continued elevation in skill, competition, and visibility fueled by their ongoing contributions.