Women’s basketball star A’ja Wilson has signed a record-breaking new contract with the Las Vegas Aces worth nearly USD 5 million over three years, the American media reported Wednesday.

The three-time WNBA champion and four-time Most Valuable Player’s new deal would be the most lucrative in the rapidly growing league’s history.

“A’ja is truly one of one, who has led this franchise to where it is today,” president and GM Nikki Fargas said in a statement.

“Not only has she catapulted into the history books and surpassed almost every record in existence, but she does so with the utmost confidence, authenticity and grace. We look forward to continuing to see her thrive in an Aces uniform.”

A’ja Wilson is coming off one of the most decorated seasons in WNBA history, earning the MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Finals MVP and leading the league in scoring in the same season.

ESPN reported that the 29-year-old’s contract was a “USD 5 million supermax contract,” citing anonymous sources, while The Athletic reported the deal would potentially reach “more than USD 4.7 million with maximum raises”.

Wilson earned USD 200,000 last season.

But the North American women’s basketball league is enjoying a surge in popularity, with increased attendances and a USD 2.2 billion 11-year broadcast deal driving up salaries.

A lengthy standoff between the players’ union and league was resolved last month with a “groundbreaking” seven-year labour deal.

It means the salary cap will skyrocket from USD 1.5 million to USD 7 million in 2026, and will adjust annually based on league and team revenue growth.

The new WNBA season is set to tip off on May 8, with the addition of two new teams — Portland and Toronto — bringing the total number of franchises to 15.

(with inputs from AFP)

Published on Apr 16, 2026