A'ja Wilson's Impressive 30-Point, 20-Rebound Performance Bolsters Her MVP Contention
The Las Vegas Aces are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the New York Liberty on Wednesday, with the game potentially being their most important of the season so far. The Aces vs. Liberty matchup will tip off at 9:30 p.m. ET on ESPN from Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas.
A'ja Wilson, the reigning MVP, has significantly strengthened her case in the 2025 WNBA MVP race following a historic 30-point, 20-rebound game. This performance, which is a record in WNBA history, has propelled her to the third-best MVP odds at +550, trailing only Napheesa Collier and Alyssa Thomas.
Wilson's recent dominance and the Aces' improved record, which includes a nine-win streak in 10 games and seven consecutive victories, have boosted her standing. The Aces' record after Wilson's return has pushed them back into contention for a top-four spot, trailing the current No. 2 seed New York by just two games headed into the final homestretch.
If the Aces win against the Liberty, they would trail the No. 2 seed by just two games, adding more excitement to an already heated race. Wilson's performance has narrowed the gap with front-runner Napheesa Collier, who has been sidelined with an ankle injury, and whose MVP odds have dipped as a result.
Basketball guru Nekias Dunca points out that Las Vegas outscores opponents by 8.8 points per 100 possessions when Wilson is on the floor. Wilson's exceptional performances, including her 32-point, 20-rebound game against Connecticut, have solidified her as the frontrunner for the Defensive Player of the Year Award, averaging 2.1 blocks and 3.7 stocks (steals + blocks) per game.
In her historic outing, Wilson dished out five assists and collected two steals. She grabbed her 20th rebound of the game with 36.2 seconds remaining, securing a memorable victory. Collier's ankle injury has opened up the MVP conversation, allowing Phoenix's Alyssa Thomas a chance at the award.
This article also features an exclusive interview with Chris Brickley, offering insights into the current state of the WNBA and the MVP race. The Aces' 9-3 record in their last 12 games after Wilson's return from a wrist injury on July 12, coupled with her recent performances, have made the belief that she was suffering from a down year no longer valid.
As the season reaches its climax, the MVP race currently centers around Collier, who is favored due to her consistent season performance despite injury, and Wilson, whose recent dominance and a historic 30/20 game have reignited the competition. Alyssa Thomas also remains a strong contender, but Wilson’s leadership in the Aces' winning streak and remarkable individual performances have put her back firmly in the MVP conversation.
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