A'ja Wilson, the WNBA star, celebrated her 28th birthday in Paris amidst the US women's basketball team's pursuit of Olympic gold.
During a practice session on Thursday, Wilson was pleasantly surprised as her teammates serenaded her with the Stevie Wonder version of 'Happy Birthday'.
The heartwarming moment was captured in a video shared by USA Basketball, showcasing the team coming together to celebrate Wilson's special day.
Taking to her Instagram Story, A'ja Wilson shared a glimpse of the thoughtful birthday gift she received – an engraved bottle of Dom Perignon featuring her initials. The personalized champagne bottle added a touch of elegance to her birthday celebrations in the City of Light.
Wilson also posted a photo of the iconic Eiffel Tower with a simple caption, '28', capturing the essence of her birthday milestone in the picturesque setting of Paris.
The birthday festivities came on the heels of Team USA's victory against Nigeria, where A'ja Wilson showcased her exceptional talent by contributing 20 points to the team's success.
As the US women's basketball team advances to the semifinals to face Australia, Wilson and her teammates remain focused on their ultimate goal – securing a gold medal at the Paris Olympics.
However, amidst the birthday celebrations and competitive triumphs, the team faced a moment of controversy earlier in the Games.
WNBA sensation Caitlin Clark, known for her remarkable impact on the league since being drafted by the Indiana Fever, was notably absent from the star-studded American roster.
Clark's absence sparked debate and disappointment among fans who believed she deserved a place on the Olympics roster due to her outstanding performance in the league.
The selection committee's decision to overlook Caitlin Clark in favor of more experienced players with international success led to mixed reactions within the basketball community.
Despite the decision, Clark's dedicated fan base made their presence felt during a game against Japan, as a supporter boldly displayed a sign proclaiming, 'You need Caitlin Clark to beat us.'
The playful jab, accompanied by a display of Nets and Lakers jerseys, added an element of lighthearted banter to the competitive atmosphere of the Olympics.
As Team USA continues their pursuit of Olympic glory, A'ja Wilson's birthday celebration served as a moment of camaraderie and joy amidst the intense competition.
With unwavering determination and a supportive team behind her, Wilson remains focused on delivering her best performance on the court as she represents her country on the global stage.
As the Paris Olympics unfold, the world eagerly anticipates the outcome of the women's basketball competition and celebrates the remarkable athleticism and sportsmanship displayed by A'ja Wilson and her teammates.
