If you became a fan of the WNBA in recent years-including myself-then you most likely would have not witnessed Tina Thompson’s game in her prime years. But if you are up to date with the WNBA, then you should know the name, A’ja Wilson. Many fans should easily be able to see Thompson’s game through Wilson’s gameplay now. Although going to two different USC’s, both players were No. 1 WNBA draft picks in their respective classes and both have impacted the game in many ways. Now, Tina Thompson’s Game Returns Through A’ja Wilson.
Tina Thompson’s Game
Throughout Thompson’s career, she brought the now defunct Houston Comets to four consecutive WNBA championships. Also, Thompson won two Olympic gold medals with the United States. Named a top 20 player in league history, in 2016, Thompson utilized the dribble while playing, allowing her to create her shots, especially under the basket. Thompson especially loved to utilize the two steps under the basket. Whether it be with a spin-move or a Eurostep, Thompson was a talented finisher. Although right-handed, Thompson loved to drive on the left side for an easy layup. When she drove to the basket she often got fouled and turned a 2-point play into a 3-point play.
Not only was Thompson a force in the paint, but was a proficient 3-point and long-range shooter for her position. Thompson was one player you did not want to guard, especially on a mismatch. Her gameplay was beyond her time and was represented through her success as a player. Now Thompson is bringing her knowledge as a player to coaching at the University of Virginia. Her success whether it winning the first WNBA championship or winning a gold medal paved the way for players after her.
Seeing Thompson in Wilson
Thompson was a huge player and face of the game during the first few years of the WNBA. Even as time went on she was still impactful. One big face of the WNBA, 2020 MVP, Wilson has gameplay very similar to that of Thompson’s. Although Thompson never won these honors that Wilson already has earned in three short years-now in her fourth- Wilson’s gameplay is still very similar to Thompson’s.
A’ja and Tina both favor the left side of the basket and getting to that side. Over time, A’ja has strengthened her dribble-drive and now more than ever is creating more shots for herself like Thompson once did. Wilson is also proficient at turning a 2-point play into a 3-point play and this has become a crucial part of her game. Although A’ja is not expected to make 3’s like Thompson once did: her range is becoming longer and harder for defenders to guard. A’ja also has been creating space for herself by doing a spin move or a Eurostep like Tina and the similarities are apparent when watching highlights.
Thompson’s leadership and gameplay can be seen in Wilson. Wilson and Thompson during their careers were young leaders who were huge keys to their team’s success. Both are explosive forwards that are more than just post players and can shoot beyond the paint. Tina’s signature on the court look was her red lipstick, while A’ja is always sporting her leg sleeve. At this Olympics, A’ja will have the chance to bring home an Olympic gold medal for the first time potentially following in Tina’s footsteps. Thompson’s game is reflected in Wilson’s game and will for years to come.
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