A'ja Wilson Signs Historic Six-Year Extension with Nike

Las Vegas Aces superstar A'ja Wilson—a three-time WNBA MVP, two-time league champion, and global icon—has signed a six-year contract extension with Nike, sources told ESPN on Tuesday. The landmark deal cements Wilson’s place as one of the highest-paid athletes in women’s basketball, further strengthening her growing legacy on and off the court.

The news follows Nike’s earlier announcement in May naming Wilson to its prestigious roster of signature athletes and unveiling her upcoming signature shoe, the "A'One", set to launch in spring 2025 ahead of the WNBA season.

A Game-Changing Deal

Wilson's new agreement ranks among the most lucrative shoe deals for a women’s basketball player, putting her alongside other Nike stars like 2024 WNBA No. 1 pick Caitlin Clark, USC sensation JuJu Watkins, and New York Liberty standout Sabrina Ionescu.

• Caitlin Clark: Signed an eight-year deal worth over $20 million, with additional incentives and bonuses earlier this year.
• JuJu Watkins: Recently agreed to a multiyear deal extension with Nike, securing her place as one of the rising stars in basketball endorsements.
• Sabrina Ionescu: Debuted her second signature shoe this past spring, which gained widespread popularity, including among NBA players.

This extension solidifies Nike’s investment in women’s basketball as it continues to highlight and support the sport's brightest stars.

A'ja Wilson's Unprecedented 2024 Season

At 28 years old, Wilson has already etched her name among the greatest to ever play in the WNBA. This past season marked a historic chapter in her career as she achieved several milestones that further cemented her dominance:

• WNBA MVP: Wilson was named the league’s Most Valuable Player for the third time, joining the ranks of legends like Lauren Jackson, Lisa Leslie, and Sheryl Swoopes. Notably, she became the first player to win the MVP award unanimously since Cynthia Cooper in the WNBA’s inaugural season in 1997.
• Record-Breaking Campaign: Wilson shattered the WNBA single-season scoring and rebounding records. She became the first player in league history to surpass 1,000 points in a single regular season, finishing with a staggering 1,021 points.
• Olympic Glory: Wilson added to her international resume by winning her second Olympic gold medal with Team USA. Her dominance during the tournament earned her MVP honors, showcasing her ability to thrive on the world’s biggest stages.

Wilson’s remarkable performance in 2024 is a testament to her relentless work ethic, leadership, and ability to elevate her game year after year.

The "A'One" – A Milestone for Wilson and Nike

The launch of Wilson’s signature shoe, "A'One", marks a major milestone in her partnership with Nike. Set for release in spring 2025, the "A'One" represents Wilson’s unique style, dominance on the court, and role as a trailblazer in women’s sports.

As one of only a handful of WNBA athletes to receive a signature shoe, Wilson continues to inspire the next generation of players while breaking barriers for women’s basketball. The launch of the "A'One" will coincide with the start of the 2025 WNBA season, further fueling excitement for Wilson’s continued dominance with the Las Vegas Aces.

A Legacy of Leadership and Excellence

Wilson’s influence extends beyond her accolades and records. She has become a role model for aspiring athletes, showcasing the possibilities available through hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Her partnership with Nike highlights her growing impact as a global ambassador for women’s basketball and a trailblazer for equity in sports endorsements.

What This Means for Women’s Basketball

Wilson’s record-breaking deal is yet another sign of the growing momentum behind women’s basketball. With powerhouse endorsements for players like Wilson, Clark, Watkins, and Ionescu, brands like Nike are investing in the future of the sport. The visibility of women’s basketball continues to rise, as elite athletes are receiving recognition, opportunities, and compensation on par with their immense talent and contributions to the game.

For Wilson, this deal reflects her evolution from an NCAA champion at South Carolina to one of the most dominant forces in professional basketball. It’s a celebration of her achievements, her impact, and her unwavering commitment to excellence.

The Road Ahead

With the historic Nike deal, Wilson enters the next phase of her career as not only a star on the court but also as a cultural icon. As she continues to lead the Las Vegas Aces, pursue championships, and grow her influence globally, her partnership with Nike will further amplify her reach and impact.