Is there any way to slow A’ja Wilson down? On July 29, 2024, Team USA kicked off their group phase with a matchup against Japan, in a rematch from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics Gold medal game. And it seemed like A’ja Wilson played it like a final. The WNBA’s leading scorer this season, averaging 27.2 PPG, made it hard for Japan to keep up from the moment she hit the hardwood.

For Wilson, posting a stat line of 17 points and 7 rebounds was quite easy in the first half, especially with her accuracy helping her out. By the end of the first half, the Las Vegas Aces star had attempted 11 shots, converting 7 of them. Thanks to Wilson, Team USA held a comfortable 50-39 lead over Japan as they entered the second half of the game.

Now, all that Team USA needed to do was defend and maintain the lead. But the Wilson-led Team USA seemed hungrier than ever. While limiting Japan to just 76 points, Team USA scored an impressive 102 points by the end of the game. Well, the credit goes to the team’s gifted roster, especially Wilson.

While most comments were meant to motivate Wilson on the court, some also targeted her teammates. “A’ja is cooking!!” wrote Chicago Sky’s guard, Chennedy Carter, on X. By the time Carter posted the comment, Wilson was leading Team USA with 17 points. “Come on now AMFW @_ajawilson22” added Dawn Staley.

Breanna Stewart contributed an impressive 22 points and 8 rebounds, while Chelsea Gray dazzled with 13 assists to secure the victory. Meanwhile, the standout was undoubtedly A’ja Wilson, who led Team USA with 24 points. This performance sparked comments from her WNBA mates and coaches.

A’ja Wilson’s supporters storm X

Even Japan was intimidated by the 2x MVP. “I know Japan hates to see A’ja coming,” wrote Sydney Colson. The Aces standout is the reigning Finals MVP and is vying for her second Olympic gold. Furthermore, she leads the WNBA with the highest scoring average of 27.2 and 12 rebounds per game. Sure enough, all this makes her unstoppable.

“A’ja relaxxxx,” wrote former Chicago Sky star Isabelle Harrison, praising Wilson’s already impressive performance. Overall, Wilson’s display was truly spectacular. Now, Team USA stands with a 56th consecutive Olympic win. The question is: Will they be able to add another to the streak? Nevertheless, Wilson’s teammates also earned the praise of Dawn Staley.

As a member of the selection committee, it’s essential for her to justify her team’s choices. But Wilson isn’t the only player Staley is concerned about. “Let’s make sure norf Philly’s own is alright! @kahleahcopper hope you are good,” she said.

As Kahleah Copper attempted to pass the ball to her teammate towards the end of the first half, she was hit hard in the stomach by Japan’s guard. Copper was in pain and struggled on the ground for the next few minutes. However, she seemed fine after the incident. Team USA will next face Belgium on Wednesday.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us in the exciting pilot episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and SEC All-Freshman Team Selection, Silas Demary Jr.