By Danielle McCartan (@CoachMcCartan and Facebook.com/CoachMcCartan)

With the #1 overall pick in the 2018 #WNBADraft the Las Vegas Aces select… pic.twitter.com/7aLtD4FYaA

— Las Vegas Aces (@LVAces) April 12, 2018

BERGEN COUNTY, N.J. – At number one overall, the Las Vegas Aces have selected 6’5″ forward A’ja Wilson of South Carolina.  Wilson, the best overall player in the draft, received the phone call from Head Coach and President of Basketball operations Bill Laimbeer approximately 30 minutes ago.

We’re taking @_ajawilson22 pic.twitter.com/Ia8aVIFKt3

— Las Vegas Aces (@LVAces) April 12, 2018

Having a parent who is a former professional athlete is a tremendous advantage for a player. For example, that parent with professional experience can effectively aid in technique adjustments, workout regimens, and the mental aspect of the game. Lucky for the Aces, Wilson is the daughter of Roscoe Wilson, Sr., who played professional basketball in Europe for 10 seasons. He, undoubtedly, will be an indispensable asset to her professional career.

Wilson has won seemingly every single individual accolade possible throughout her tenure at South Carolina. Her Gamecocks won the 2017 National Championship and she was named Most Outstanding Player (as a junior) after posting a game-high 23 points and a game-high (tied) 10 rebounds.  Clearly, bright lights do not intimidate Wilson. The Strips’ lights will be a welcome sight for her as she moves from the beach to the desert.

Though not a threat from the perimeter, Wilson’s college career field goal percentage is an impressive 55%.  She averaged just over 17 points per game and can contribute approximately 26 minutes per game.

Wilson is experienced, reliable, battle-tested stud who will make an immediate impact for the Aces.  Expect her to make an immediate impact in this lineup and be a player for the Aces to build around for years to come. During ESPN’s Draft broadcast, she has already said that she will not rest on her laurels and continue to better her game. A dogged work ethic will propel her to new heights, and, if not already, becoming the face of the franchise. When she was asked what she has to say to the brand-new Aces fans, with an excited smile, Wilson replied: “What happens in Sin City stays in Sin City!”

With the #1 overall pick in the 2018 @WNBA Draft, the #LVAces proudly select @_ajawilson22 out of South Carolina. Welcome to Las Vegas! pic.twitter.com/GNMCVkbHGN

— Las Vegas Aces (@LVAces) April 12, 2018