Everything You Need To Know About A’ja Wilson Named MVP Of Women’s Basketball Tournament At 2024 Paris Olympics

Dawn Staley a titan of women’s basketball, summed up the United States dominant victory in the 2024 Paris Olympics in a single emphatic sentence:

We have A’ja Wilson and you do not hear words the sentiment of millions as the American team clinched gold in a heart-stopping 67-66 final against France.

While the game was a masterclass in tension and skill, with France’s suffocating defence and Team USA’s early shooting woes captivating the crowd one player stood head and shoulders above the rest. A’ja Wilson rightfully crowned the tournament’s MVP was the undeniable force propelling the Americans to victory.

Also Read: Paris Olympics 2024: Stephen Curry’s Gold Medal Performance vs. France

Four doubles in six games averaging close to 19 points and 10 rebounds per match, Wilson’s impact was immeasurable. When the U.S. needed a defensive stop, a crucial score, or an injection of energy, she delivered time and again.

Breanna Stewart, a FIBA All-Star, was a consistent force, while Jackie Young shone in the semifinals. Kahleah Copper, a relative afterthought early in the tournament, exploded onto the scene with a stellar performance in the gold medal game. Every player contributed to the team’s success, as Wilson humbly acknowledged post-game.

The Rest of the World is Closing In

France’s well effort played out in front of a USA home ground showcased the gap between the USA and the rest of the world. Gabby Williams do close two-point attempt in the final seconds highlighted just how competitive the sport has become.

Belgium, Germany and Australia have emerged as good opponents while rising stars Brazil, Japan and China are steadily closing the gap. Nigeria’s coach, Rena Wakama, earned the FIBA Coach of the Tournament award for her team’s impressive showing.

The FIBA All-Star team featuring Wilson, Stewart, Belgium’s Emma Meesseman, Australia’s Alanna Smith and France’s Gabby Williams is a testament to the global talent pool. As these players and countless others continue to develop, the women’s basketball landscape is going for even greater excitement in the years to come.

One thing is certain: the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics will be a battle royale for the gold.