A’ja Wilson Makes History as First Four-Time WNBA MVP, Surpassing Napheesa Collier
LAS VEGAS — In a historic achievement, A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces has been named the WNBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the 2025 season, becoming the first player in league history to win the award four times. Wilson secured the unprecedented honor over Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier and other top contenders, cementing her status as one of the greatest athletes in women’s professional basketball.
The 6-foot-4 center received 51 out of 72 first-place votes from a national panel of sports journalists and broadcasters, accumulating a total of 657 points. Napheesa Collier finished second with 534 points, while Phoenix Mercury’s Alyssa Thomas followed in third place with 391 points. The voting system awards 10 points for a first-place vote, 7 for second, 5 for third, 3 for fourth, and 1 for fifth.
Wilson’s achievement surpasses the records of former WNBA greats including Lauren Jackson, Lisa Leslie, and Sheryl Swoopes, all three-time MVP winners. At 29 years old, Wilson’s continued dominance opens the door for her to challenge the all-time MVP record held in the NBA by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar with six awards.
Her stellar 2025 season was highlighted by a surge during the Aces’ 16-game winning streak leading up to the playoffs, where she averaged 26.1 points, 12 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. This performance not only propelled the Aces to the No. 2 seed but also solidified Wilson’s reputation as the league’s preeminent player.
In response to the announcement, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert presented Wilson with the MVP award. The moment was further celebrated by Aces owner Mark Davis, who playfully donned a pink wig alongside his staff to honor Wilson’s historic accomplishment.
Reflecting on her unprecedented fourth MVP award, Wilson expressed profound gratitude: “It’s unbelievable. I feel fortunate to be in this position and to have my name mentioned among the legends of the WNBA. Every time I step onto the court, I cherish every moment. I genuinely love what I do every day.”
Wilson’s record-breaking MVP win has captured attention beyond the basketball community. NBA superstar LeBron James publicly congratulated her on social media, celebrating her accomplishment with the playful phrase “4 piece chicken nugget!!!!” acknowledging the rarity of her achievement.
The news of Wilson’s victory was also marked by widespread media coverage and celebration, including a tribute video from Nike recognizing her fourth MVP award, illustrating her rising legend within the sport.
As Wilson continues to dominate the league and solidify her legacy, she remains a beacon of excellence and inspiration in women’s sports, setting new standards for future generations.