Reigning WNBA Finals MVP A'ja Wilson is a force to be reckoned with both on and off the court. In a recent interview with Forbes Travel Guide, Wilson shared her excitement about her upcoming book release, Dear Black Girls: How to Be True to You, while also discussing her love for her former school, South Carolina, and her busy schedule in the coming weeks.
Wilson expressed that now is the perfect time for her book to be released. She wanted to share a conversational and uplifting message with readers, challenging the narrative often associated with Black women. She wanted to show that Black women deserve a seat at the table and that their stories are worth telling. Early responses to her book have been incredibly positive, with readers relating to her experiences and feeling seen and heard.
South Carolina holds a special place in Wilson's heart. The state has been her home and has played a significant role in her journey as a basketball player. From the support she received growing up to the embrace of the University of South Carolina women's basketball team, Wilson is deeply grateful for the love and opportunities the state has given her.
As her book is set to release on February 6, Wilson also has another major event on her radar – the Super Bowl, which will take place in her current home, Las Vegas, on February 11. She will be juggling book tour events and Super Bowl festivities, embracing the opportunity to showcase herself and her accomplishments.
Being a Las Vegas resident, Wilson shared her love for the city and its vibrant atmosphere. While she enjoys being part of the action and attending big events, she also finds solace in escaping the city from time to time. Wilson values finding a balance that keeps her engaged without getting overwhelmed or bored.
When asked about her perfect day in Vegas, Wilson mentioned enjoying a show, recommending David Copperfield's magic show, and dining at her favorite restaurant, Catch at ARIA. She also enjoys shopping and exploring the city's entertainment offerings, such as indulging in the thrill of roller coasters.
Wilson revealed some hidden gems away from the glitz of the Strip, such as a drive-in movie theater called West Wind that offers a nostalgic experience of watching movies from the comfort of your car, as well as a restaurant called Soul Food Cafe that serves mouthwatering collard greens. These off-the-Strip locations hold a special place in her heart.
With a packed schedule that includes interviews, commercials, book tours, and the upcoming WNBA season, Wilson emphasized the importance of taking care of herself. She finds solace in dedicating time to herself, whether it's praying, sleeping, or speaking with her parents. These moments allow her to step away from the spotlight and reconnect with her true self.
Regarding her travel routine during the WNBA season, Wilson shared her strategy for acclimating to new locations. She emphasized the importance of maintaining her routine and avoiding jet lag by staying up and engaging with her teammates or undergoing medical treatment until it's time to sleep.
As a self-proclaimed foodie, Wilson looks forward to visiting certain cities on the WNBA calendar known for their culinary offerings. She highlights Dallas as having excellent catfish, Atlanta for its growing food scene, and Seattle for an exceptional Cheesecake Factory dish – Korean fried cauliflower.
The conversation then turned to the Paris Olympics, which will take place during the WNBA season. While the season will pause for some players, Wilson expressed her hope to continue playing, indicating her anticipated inclusion on the U.S. Women's National Team roster. She eagerly looks forward to experiencing the Olympics in France, emphasizing her excitement for the food and the chance to fully immerse herself in the Olympic experience.
Before the summer, Wilson plans to take a vacation, potentially to Turks and Caicos or to visit her parents. She recognizes the importance of giving herself time to decompress and relax, acknowledging that even spending time with loved ones can be a vacation in itself.
Reflecting on the past year, Wilson shared a memorable trip to Cabo during her all-star break. The experience left a lasting impression with its fresh food and the rejuvenating scent of the ocean, which she rarely encounters in the desert.
As we eagerly await the release of Wilson's book and cheer her on in the upcoming WNBA season, her words and experiences provide valuable insight into her life as an athlete, author, and advocate. A'ja Wilson continues to shine both on and off the court, leaving an indelible mark on the world of basketball and beyond.
