As the WNBA playoffs for 2024 kick off, all eyes are on A'ja Wilson, the remarkable center from the Las Vegas Aces, who is officially ranked the top player in the league, according to ESPN's top 25 player rankings. Wilson had an incredible season, securing the title of the first player to break the 1,000-points mark in a single season, finishing with an astonishing 1,021 points. She also set a new record for rebounds in a season, racking up a staggering 451 rebounds. What an unprecedented achievement!

But Wilson's success was far from solitary. This season, various records were shattered by other standout players, including Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever, who not only led the league in assists but also set a single-season record with 337. Tina Charles of the Atlanta Dream achieved remarkable milestones, becoming the all-time leader in career rebounds and double-doubles.

With the playoffs commencing on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET on ESPN, let’s dive into the top players in the league as voted by ESPN analysts Kevin Pelton, Alexa Philippou, and Michael Voepel. Here’s the countdown of the league's elite competitors vying for the coveted WNBA championship trophy.

1. A'ja Wilson, Las Vegas Aces

- **Position**: Center | **Height**: 6'4" - **2024 Stats**: 26.9 PPG, 11.9 RPG, 2.6 BPG - **Midseason Ranking**: 1 A true powerhouse, A'ja Wilson dominated the league this season, leading in scoring, blocks, player efficiency rating, and win shares. Her scoring average of 26.9 PPG is the highest in WNBA history, surpassing the legendary Diana Taurasi’s previous record. Wilson's incredible skill set has made her a frontrunner for the MVP award this year.

2. Napheesa Collier, Minnesota Lynx

- **Position**: Forward | **Height**: 6'1" - **2024 Stats**: 20.4 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 3.4 APG, 1.9 SPG - **Midseason Ranking**: 3 With her best season yet, Collier ranks firmly at number two, showing her defensive prowess as she captures the Defensive Player of the Year award. As the Lynx aim for playoff success, her contributions on both ends of the court will be pivotal.

3. Breanna Stewart, New York Liberty

- **Position**: Forward | **Height**: 6'4" - **2024 Stats**: 20.4 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 1.7 SPG - **Midseason Ranking**: 2 Stewart has proven her worth as the backbone of the New York Liberty, bolstering her team’s championship hopes. Can she lead her team to their first-ever title?

4. Alyssa Thomas, Connecticut Sun

- **Position**: Forward | **Height**: 6'2" - **2024 Stats**: 10.6 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 7.9 APG - **Midseason Ranking**: 4 Not the highest scorer, but undoubtedly the engine of the Sun, Thomas showcases her versatility with assists and defensive stats that sum up her critical role.

5. Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever

- **Position**: Guard | **Height**: 6'0" - **2024 Stats**: 19.2 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 8.4 APG - **Midseason Ranking**: 15 After a record-breaking rookie season, Clark’s presence is undeniable. Her performance will draw fans and possibly lift the Fever to their first playoff success since 2016.

The above five players represent just a snapshot of the talent in the WNBA playoffs. As the postseason unfolds, each game will be pivotal, testing the instincts, skills, and stamina of these elite athletes in their quest for glory. The excitement is palpable, so tune in and witness the thrilling matchups ahead—sure to be etched in WNBA history! Who do you think has what it takes to clinch the championship?