A’ja Wilson Ready for New Challenge after Processing Hard-Fought 2025 Championship Win

Tomorrow arrived, and Wilson and the Aces did not hold back in their second matchup of the season against the Los Angeles Sparks, securing a 105-78 victory.

It was a remarkably efficient scoring day from the Aces, shooting 63% from the floor. Wilson finished her game with 19 points, 3 assists, and 4 rebounds on 50% shooting from the field, a typical day at work.

Wilson’s words appeared to motivate the roster, as the 29-year-old received help from all players to restart momentum ahead of the new season.

Veterans PG Chelsea Gray and SG Jackie Young controlled the pace of the game, scoring 16 and 20 points, respectively. However, it was new signing Chennedy Carter who led the Aces with 22 points in what was her first start in the WNBA since 2024.

“I don’t like back-to-backs, but this one was kind of nice to just flip the page,” Gray said.

The 33-point loss against the Mercury was taken hard, as it was the largest margin of defeat by a defending champion in a season opener in WNBA history.

But it felt even worse for A’ja Wilson, as the Aces held their ring ceremony before the season opener, and the 29-year-old is not a fan of the timing.

A’ja Wilson is Not a Fan of Ring Ceremonies

Before the season-opening tipoff, the Aces players and staff received their  2025 WNBA championship rings, marking another title for a franchise that won in 2022 and 2023 as well.

However, the tough defeat for the Aces against the Mercury ruined their celebratory plans. Not to mention, the Aces had to play on the road the very next day, too.

“I hate ceremonies like this,” Wilson said, as per ESPN’s Michael Voepel.

“Obviously, you want to enjoy it, but there’s a whole business side of the issue to take care of. It’s hard to compartmentalize that at times. I wish we could do (a ceremony) afterward. It’s just very hard to separate the emotions — on both sides.”

While the ring ceremony might not have been the best experience for Wilson and the Aces, they have another chance to have a celebratory atmosphere on May 23.

They are set to lift the championship banner, returning to their usual home at Michelob Ultra Arena to face the  Sparks again.