A’ja Wilson and Ibtihaj Muhammad Discuss Influential Topics at TIME 100 Summit
Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson, recently named one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people, took center stage at the 2024 TIME 100 Summit alongside fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad. Wilson, who recently released a book titled Dear Black Girls: How to Be True to You, shared her insights and wisdom on a variety of topics during the summit.
One of the key points Wilson touched upon was the evolving landscape of college athletics in the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Reflecting on her own college experience, Wilson acknowledged that the financial opportunities available to student-athletes today are vastly different from when she was in school. However, she emphasized the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself in all business dealings.
“When it comes to big sponsorships…I’m like, well, you’re gonna get me and I’m not changing that because that’s what needs to be seen,” Wilson stated. “Black women have been a force; when it comes to the WNBA, this is essentially an organization that was built on the backs of black women.”
In addition to discussing the business side of athletics, Wilson also highlighted the importance of prioritizing mental health. “You have to protect your peace first; your brand is gonna come with that but your peace is what really matters,” she advised.
As a transcendent superstar in the WNBA, Wilson is passionate about growing the interest and support for women’s basketball. With the upcoming WNBA season set to kick off on May 3rd, Wilson urged fans to invest in the league and its players, emphasizing the need for sustained support beyond just fleeting trends.
“We see this a lot with young athletes,” Wilson remarked. “I hope that anyone’s invested and paying attention to it, continues to invest in it. Buy that jersey. Go to that game. Take someone else. Put your money where your mouth is and invest in these women.”
With the WNBA season on the horizon, fans can look forward to watching Wilson and the Las Vegas Aces in action as they aim for a third consecutive championship. The season opener on May 14th against the Phoenix Mercury will be broadcast on ESPN2, marking the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and impactful season for women’s basketball.