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In a stunning WNBA twist, A’ja Wilson and Alanna Smith share the 2025 Defensive Player of the Year award after a razor-thin vote. Dive into their epic seasons, stats, and what this means for the playoffs.
Just yesterday, the WNBA dropped a bombshell that’s got fans buzzing: Las Vegas Aces superstar A’ja Wilson and Minnesota Lynx forward Alanna Smith have been named co-winners of the 2025 Kia WNBA Defensive Player of the Year award. This unprecedented split vote highlights the fierce competition in the league and underscores the defensive prowess of two athletes who’ve elevated their teams to new heights. As the playoffs heat up, this announcement adds an extra layer of drama, reminding us why women’s basketball is captivating audiences like never before. Imagine the intensity—the sweat, the blocks, the sheer will to dominate. It’s not just an award; it’s a testament to resilience and grit in a sport that’s exploding in popularity.
The Historic Split: How the Vote Unfolded
The decision came down to a nail-biting tie, with both A’ja Wilson and Alanna Smith receiving exactly 20 first-place votes from a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters. This marks the first time in WNBA history that the Defensive Player of the Year honor has been shared, sending shockwaves through the basketball community. Fans on social media erupted, with debates raging about whether one deserved it outright or if this co-award truly reflects the league’s depth of talent.
For Wilson, this is her third DPOY nod, cementing her status as one of the all-time greats. But sharing the spotlight? It’s a humble moment for the Aces’ center, who reacted with grace in post-announcement interviews. “It’s an honor to share this with Alanna—she’s been incredible,” Wilson said on NBA Today. Yet, beneath the sportsmanship, there’s that competitive fire. This tie feels like a plot twist in an already thrilling season, leaving us to ponder: Does it dilute the prestige, or does it amplify the respect for defensive specialists?
Smith, on the other hand, emerged as a surprise contender, her lockdown defense propelling the Lynx to a top seed. The vote’s closeness—Wilson edged out in total points but tied in first-place ballots—speaks volumes about how evenly matched these two are. It’s emotionally charged: Two women, from rival teams, pushing each other to excellence. As a fan, you can’t help but feel inspired by their journeys from underdogs to icons.
A’ja Wilson’s Dominance: Stats That Scream MVP
No one dominates like A’ja Wilson. In the 2025 regular season, she averaged 23.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.6 steals, and a league-leading 2.3 blocks per game. Her efficiency? A scorching 51% from the field, 42% from three, and 86% from the line. These aren’t just numbers; they’re the heartbeat of the Aces’ success, including a 16-game win streak to close the year.
Wilson’s defensive impact is visceral. She leads the WNBA in points, rebounds, and blocks—a trifecta no one else touches. Picture this: In a pivotal playoff game against the Seattle Storm just last night, Wilson exploded for 38 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocks, propelling the Aces to a 74-73 victory and into the semifinals. Her game-winner miss turned into a putback by teammate Jackie Young, but it was Wilson’s all-around brilliance that sealed the deal. Emotionally, it’s heartbreaking for Storm fans but exhilarating for Aces loyalists. Wilson’s post-game reflection? “In the offseason, you dream of these moments.” She’s not just playing; she’s inspiring a generation.
And let’s not forget her off-court influence. As a South Carolina legend, Wilson’s path from college stardom to WNBA royalty is a story of perseverance. This co-DPOY adds to her hardware, but whispers of a fourth MVP loom large. She’s the total package—fierce, focused, and forever changing the game.
Alanna Smith’s Breakthrough: From Underrated to Elite
While A’ja Wilson grabs headlines, Alanna Smith‘s rise is the feel-good story of 2025. The Lynx forward, often overshadowed, anchored a defense that allowed the fewest points per game in the league. Her stats? Impressive: 10.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks, but it’s her versatility—guarding multiple positions—that earned her votes.
Smith’s journey tugs at the heartstrings. After stints with multiple teams, she found her stride in Minnesota, becoming a key piece in their championship chase. Sharing the award with Wilson? It’s validation. “This means everything—it’s about the team effort,” Smith shared in a emotional presser. Their matchup in potential finals? Electric. Smith’s defensive IQ disrupts stars like Wilson, adding rivalry spice.
This co-win humanizes the sport. Smith represents the grinders, the players who hustle without the spotlight. Her story reminds us: Greatness comes in many forms, and 2025 proved defense wins championships—and hearts.
Playoff Implications: Aces vs. Lynx Showdown Brewing?
With the Aces advancing to face the Indiana Fever, and the Lynx poised for their series, this DPOY tie sets the stage for epic battles. Wilson vs. Caitlin Clark? Must-see TV. But if both teams advance, a Wilson-Smith finals clash could be legendary. Wilson’s keys: Containing scorers like Kelsey Mitchell without fouling.
The emotional stakes are high. For Wilson, it’s about legacy—back-to-back titles? For Smith, it’s redemption. This award fuels the fire, making every block, every steal, feel personal. Fans, buckle up; the WNBA playoffs are about to deliver unforgettable drama.
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Key Stats and Takeaways
- A’ja Wilson led the league in points (23.4 PPG), rebounds (10.2 RPG), and blocks (2.3 BPG), while ranking top-three in steals.
- Alanna Smith helped the Lynx boast the WNBA’s best defense, averaging 1.6 blocks and excelling in rim protection.
- Wilson joins elite company with her third DPOY, tying Tamika Catchings.
- The split vote: Both received 20 first-place votes, but Wilson had more total points (but tied in the end).
- Playoff heroics: Wilson’s 38-point explosion vs. Storm highlights her clutch gene.
These stats aren’t dry figures—they’re the pulse of a season where defense stole the show.
Looking Ahead: Legacy in the Making
As the dust settles on this announcement, one thing’s clear: A’ja Wilson and Alanna Smith are redefining WNBA defense. Wilson’s all-around game positions her as a potential MVP frontrunner, while Smith’s emergence signals the league’s growing parity. Emotionally, it’s uplifting—two Black women at the pinnacle, inspiring young athletes worldwide.
But questions linger: Will this co-award motivate Wilson to another title run? Can Smith lead the Lynx to glory? The playoffs will tell. In a league bursting with talent, this moment feels timeless, a chapter in basketball history we’re lucky to witness.
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About the Author
Alex Rivera is a seasoned sports journalist with over a decade covering the WNBA and NBA for outlets like ESPN and Yahoo Sports. Passionate about women’s athletics, Alex blends in-depth analysis with storytelling to bring fans closer to the action. Follow him on X @AlexRiveraSports for real-time updates.
