Jason Whitlock defends A’ja Wilson over FIBA World Cup absence
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 1:30 PM
Last updated Sep 10, 2026

A’ja Wilson recently withdrew from the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup due to health reasons just days before the tournament began. The Las Vegas Aces center faced criticism for the decision, drawing comparisons to other players who remained with their teams despite injuries. Analyst Jason Whitlock defended the decision, citing the proximity of the WNBA postseason and the significant workload on Wilson as she pursues a potential fifth league MVP award. Wilson remains a key contributor for the Las Vegas Aces as they look toward their title defense. The league recently named her the Western Conference Player of the Month for the fourth consecutive time this season, a streak she shares with Minnesota Lynx player Olivia Miles.
- •A’ja Wilson withdrew from the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup for health reasons.
- •Jason Whitlock defended the absence citing the WNBA playoff schedule.
- •Wilson earned her fourth consecutive Western Conference Player of the Month award in 2026.
- •The Las Vegas Aces are preparing for their upcoming postseason title defense.
- 1:30 PMYahoo Sports — Jason Whitlock Defends A’ja Wilson Despite Not Being a “Fan” of Aces Superstar Amid FIBA World Cup Absence
"A’ja Wilson has caught flak for sitting out this year’s FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup. Just days before the tournament began, USA Basketball announced that the reigning four-time WNBA MVP would be withdrawing from the competition due to health reasons.
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