Imagine nearly choking on the biggest night of your life—all because of a fashion choice. This is exactly what WNBA superstar A'ja Wilson experienced during her 2018 draft night, a story she recently shared with a mix of humor and relief. But here's where it gets controversial: could a wardrobe malfunction have derailed one of basketball's brightest careers? Let's dive in.
The Las Vegas Aces selected A'ja Wilson as the No. 1 pick in the 2018 WNBA draft, a moment that should have been purely celebratory. However, Wilson revealed on Sean Evans' First We Feast show that her light pink jumpsuit, complete with a stylish choker, nearly turned the evening into a disaster. "It's important to get fitted the right way because I was about to die on one of the biggest nights of my life," Wilson explained. "The choker was cute, but the way it was choking me was scary." And this is the part most people miss: Wilson jokingly credited her No. 1 draft position for saving her from fainting. "If I didn't go number one, I would have fainted in that place," she said. "God knew I had to be number one because I couldn't sit there any longer."
Since that nerve-wracking night, Wilson has become a dominant force in the WNBA, securing three championships, two Finals MVP awards, four league MVP titles, and three Defensive Player of the Year honors. Her success on the court is undeniable, but her off-court ventures are equally intriguing. Here’s a fun twist: Wilson isn’t just a basketball icon—she’s also a self-proclaimed "scent expert." In 2021, she launched Burnt Wax Candle, a candle company co-founded with her mother, Eva Wilson. During her interview, Wilson shared her love for the aroma of popcorn in basketball arenas, particularly in Dallas. "I cannot wait to get some popcorn after the game," she gushed, though she admitted, "I don’t think anyone wants a popcorn candle."
The idea for the candle business, Wilson explained, came during the COVID-19 pandemic when her mom noticed her extensive candle collection. What started as a personal passion has now become a thriving venture, blending her love for scents with her entrepreneurial spirit.
Now, let’s spark some debate: Is A'ja Wilson’s success solely due to her athletic talent, or does her ability to balance a thriving business and a stellar career make her an even greater role model? And what do you think—would you buy a popcorn-scented candle? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
