A'ja Wilson Reaffirms Commitment to Las Vegas Aces Amid Historic WNBA Free Agency

Four-time MVP A'ja Wilson announced Friday that she will remain with the Las Vegas Aces as the WNBA enters an unprecedented free-agency period. Wilson, who is currently at a USA Basketball training camp in Phoenix, said she has “no intentions of leaving Vegas” and is focused on defending the team’s championship. The Aces also intend to retain guard Jackie Young, veteran guard Chelsea Gray and forward Jewell Loyd, who were key contributors to the title. Her statement comes as nearly every non-rookie player will become a free agent under the league’s new collective bargaining agreement (CBA).

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The 2023-24 CBA introduced a free-agency system that allows players to let contracts expire after the 2025 season to capitalize on higher salaries. The agreement raises the league’s maximum salary from $249,244 in 2025 to $1.4 million in 2026, with projections of $2.4 million by 2032. The league must complete free-agency signings before training camps begin on April 19, following an expansion draft scheduled for the preceding Friday.

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During the 2025 season Wilson averaged 23.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 2.3 blocks, and 1.6 steals while shooting 50.5 % from the field. Under the new CBA, the league’s projected maximum salary for 2026 is $1.4 million, potentially rising to $2.4 million by 2032.

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Wilson’s remarks emphasized personal loyalty and professional ambition. She described her decision as rooted in love for the city and a desire to improve as a leader. Wilson also noted that navigating free agency will be just doing it, highlighting the broader challenge players face in finding a suitable home. She encouraged peers to follow their hearts when evaluating future team options.

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• “I'm not looking,” — A'ja Wilson, forward, Las Vegas Aces

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• “I know exactly where I am.” — A'ja Wilson, forward, Las Vegas Aces

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• “The challenge is just doing it,” — A'ja Wilson, forward, Las Vegas Aces

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• “When it comes to us, when the job has to be handled and done, we're always going to do it the right way.” — A'ja Wilson, forward, Las Vegas Aces

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Wilson’s commitment signals stability for a championship-contending franchise and may influence other marquee players’ free-agency decisions. Retaining a star of Wilson’s caliber could shape competitive balance, affect ticket sales, and reinforce the Aces’ market presence as the league navigates its most fluid player-movement period.

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The expansion draft is set for Friday, followed by the free-agency signing window, which must close before the April 19 training-camp start. The Aces’ roster decisions during this window will determine their championship prospects for the 2026 season.

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