A’ja Wilson shows emotional strength after playoff loss with Las Vegas Aces
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 19, 2026, 4:16 AM
Last updated Oct 19, 2026
A’ja Wilson, a five-time WNBA MVP, expressed deep emotion after the Las Vegas Aces' playoff loss on October 18. In the aftermath of the loss, Wilson was seen crying in the arms of her former coach Tanisha Wright. This reaction illustrates her passion and commitment to the game. Wright highlighted Wilson's ability to channel such losses into growth, noting her transformation into an even stronger player following the defeat against the Phoenix Mercury in 2021. The emotional moment underscores Wilson's dedication, both on and off the court, as she continues to influence the team and the sport.
- •A’ja Wilson cried after the Las Vegas Aces' playoff loss on October 18.
- •Tanisha Wright emphasized Wilson's emotional strength and commitment.
- •Wilson's reaction reflects her deep care for the game and her teammates.
- •Wright coached Wilson during her time at the Aces, noting her growth post-loss.
- •This moment illustrates the pressure and expectations athletes face in playoffs.
- 4:16 AMYahoo Sports — A’ja Wilson cried in her coach’s arms after a playoff loss. The moment revealed her own superpower
"This story is part of Peak, The Athletic’s desk covering the mental side of sports. Sign up for Peak’s newsletter here. Tanisha Wright coached A’ja Wilson, a five-time WNBA MVP, for two seasons as an assistant with the Las Vegas Aces. She is now the head coach of Penn State. In 2021, when I was an assistant with the Las Vegas Aces, we lost in the semifinals against the Phoenix Mercury. We were clearly the heavy favorite to win that series and return to the WNBA championship. As we were coming of
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