Diana Taurasi Makes Strong A'ja Wilson GOAT Claim Amid Historic MVP Run
· Yahoo Sports
WNBA legend Diana Taurasi believes center A'ja Wilson could put an end to the league's GOAT debate if she captures her fifth MVP award, adding another historic accomplishment to a potential Hall of Fame career.
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Taurasi, who is the league's all-time leading scorer, spoke to Bill Simmons on his podcast on Sept. 2 about Wilson's improvement, trajectory, and the possibility of her winning a fifth MVP.
"How could you not say she's the GOAT if she wins five [MVPs] in a row?" Taurasi asked.
Wilson's fifth MVP would actually be her third consecutive award. She also won in 2020 and 2022.
The former Phoenix Mercury guard spoke about how Wilson continues to add to her game every season. Taurasi said that when she watched Wilson in college, she did not think she would become the player she is today.
However, she stated that Wilson's development is a testament to her commitment.
A'ja Wilson's MVP Case
Wilson has four MVPs, the most in league history. Hall of Famers Lauren Jackson, Sheryl Swoopes, and Lisa Leslie each won three.
Throughout the season, the Aces center has been leading the MVP race. ESPN has also considered Wilson the frontrunner for the award.
Although rookie Olivia Miles and the Minnesota Lynx sit atop the league standings, Wilson has been dominating while leading the WNBA in scoring. She is nearly averaging a double-double while carrying the load for the Aces at times.
The 6-foot-4 center is averaging 26.0 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists while shooting 52.3% from the field and 39.8% from 3-point range.
Wilson will not play with the USA Women's National Team at the FIBA Women's World Cup after withdrawing for health reasons.
Las Vegas Aces Push For No. 2 Seed
The Las Vegas Aces are 27-13 on the season and 6-4 in their last 10 games while riding a three-game winning streak. The team will have to adjust after losing forward NaLyssa Smith for the rest of the season following a non-contact leg injury.
This season, Smith averaged 11.7 points and 6.4 rebounds while shooting 63.8% from the floor. Throughout the season, the Aces have largely avoided major injuries.
The Aces have continued to adjust the back of the roster throughout the season. The team cut ties with guard Chennedy Carter in July and has since added guards Ta'Niya Latson and Mai Yamamoto.
Las Vegas has four games remaining when the league returns from its break for international play.
All four remaining opponents are currently under .500. The Aces could use those games to prepare for the playoffs or give their starters some rest. On the flip side, four wins could help Las Vegas make a push for the No. 2 seed.