WNBA superstar A’ja Wilson recently stopped by for a powerful and insightful conversation about the evolving world of women’s basketball and to share details on her latest collaboration with Gatorade. As a two-time WNBA MVP, Olympic gold medalist, and champion with the Las Vegas Aces, Wilson has not only solidified her place as one of the game’s greats but also as a passionate advocate for the future of women in sports.
The energy in the room was electric as Wilson dove right into what matters most to her right now: growing the game, empowering the next generation, and using her platform to create meaningful change. Her love for basketball is clear, but so is her drive to do more off the court.
“Basketball has given me so much—my confidence, my voice, my community,” Wilson said with a smile. “Now I want to make sure the next generation of girls gets the same opportunity, and more.”
Her new project with Gatorade is a big part of that mission.
Teaming up with the iconic sports drink brand, Wilson is the face of Gatorade’s latest campaign focused on empowering young female athletes. The initiative, titled Fuel Tomorrow, is all about increasing access to sports for underserved communities and providing support for girls who want to pursue their athletic dreams but face financial or systemic barriers.
“We’re trying to break down those walls that too many girls still face,” Wilson explained. “This partnership is about making sure they have the resources, the coaching, the equipment—everything they need to stay in the game.”
Wilson emphasized that she remembers what it was like to be that young girl—passionate and full of dreams, but unsure of what the future held. Through Fuel Tomorrow, she’s not just offering encouragement—she’s helping create tangible opportunities.
Gatorade’s partnership with Wilson also includes the launch of limited-edition bottles and branded content that highlight her story, her grind, and her goals. The campaign blends personal storytelling with action, spotlighting Wilson’s journey from Columbia, South Carolina, to becoming one of the most recognizable figures in women’s sports.
When asked what it feels like to be a role model, Wilson responded humbly.
“I never really set out to be a ‘role model,’” she said. “But I know what it means to be seen. I know how important it is for young Black girls to see someone who looks like them doing big things. That visibility? It changes lives.”
Wilson also touched on the rising popularity of women’s basketball, pointing to record-breaking viewership numbers, increased sponsorships, and a growing fan base. She credited both the talent and the authenticity of players in the WNBA for helping drive that momentum.
“We’re showing the world that women’s basketball is here, and it’s powerful,” Wilson said. “We bring heart, skill, and stories that connect. People are finally tuning in—and staying.”
She’s also excited about the younger generation coming up through the ranks. From NCAA standouts to high school stars going viral, Wilson sees a bright future ahead.
“There’s so much talent coming, it’s wild,” she laughed. “They’re strong, smart, fearless—and they’re not waiting for permission to take their place. I love it.”
Off the court, Wilson continues to make waves through her foundation, the A’ja Wilson Foundation, which supports children with dyslexia and works to provide equal education opportunities. It’s a cause close to her heart, as Wilson herself grew up managing the learning disorder.
“When I was a kid, I didn’t have many people who understood what I was going through,” she said. “So now I try to be that person for someone else. Sports taught me how to push through challenges, and I want to pass that resilience on.”
As the conversation came to a close, Wilson reflected on the evolution of her career and what still drives her today.
“It’s bigger than basketball now,” she said. “It’s about using what I’ve been given to give back, to lift others up, and to make sure the legacy of women in sports continues to rise.”
With her voice, vision, and vibrant energy, A’ja Wilson continues to lead on and off the court. Whether she’s racking up points in the paint or partnering with Gatorade to champion the next generation, she’s proving every day that greatness isn’t just about what you do—it’s about how you inspire..
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