Las Vegas Aces Star A’ja Wilson Inspires Youth at Disney Dreamers Academy 2026
Following her remarkable achievements-securing a third WNBA title and a fourth MVP honor-Las Vegas Aces standout A’ja Wilson brought her inspiring story to the 2026 Disney Dreamers Academy in Orlando, Florida. There, she motivated 100 talented high school students selected from thousands of hopeful applicants, encouraging them to pursue their ambitions with passion and determination.
Empowering the Next Generation of Dreamers
Now celebrating its 19th year, the Disney Dreamers Academy remains a beacon of hope and empowerment, offering young people from diverse backgrounds a platform to envision and chase their dreams. Wilson, a shining example of perseverance and excellence, shared her insights and experiences, igniting the aspirations of the Dreamers.
A Historic Contract and a Message of Progress
Wilson recently made history as the first WNBA athlete to sign a supermax contract worth $1.4 million per season, a landmark achievement that reflects the league’s growing recognition and investment in women’s basketball. Speaking about the deal, she expressed gratitude and pride:
“It’s a blessing,” Wilson remarked. “It’s a lot of hard work. We had an amazing committee behind us that were working hard to make sure that everyone got what they deserved, and what we’ve earned.”
“So, to be a part of the change, to be a part of this movement that we have going on around our league and around our sport is so powerful.”
“Now, hopefully, I can continue to do what I do and that’s win at a very high level. So yeah, it’s definitely been a lot of fun.”
This milestone follows the recent agreement between the WNBA and the WNBPA on a new collective bargaining agreement, which significantly increased the salary cap from $1.5 million to $7 million. The deal also established an average player salary around $600,000, with the supermax contract set at $1.4 million, marking a new era of financial growth and stability for the league.
Creating Unforgettable Experiences for Dreamers
Beyond her on-court success, Wilson created magical moments for four Dreamers-Krysten Lewis (West Monroe, LA), Domenique Sexton (Chesapeake, VA), Alani Jordan (Laurel, MD), and Shakayah Watson (Snellville, GA)-by inviting them to join her on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, a thrilling Disney attraction. The students, all passionate about sports, shared in the excitement of the ride, a unique experience exclusive to the Disney Dreamers Academy.
Following the adventure, the Dreamers surprised Wilson with a special encounter with Princess Tiana, a beloved Disney character who inspired Wilson’s custom-designed shoes. This heartfelt moment underscored the Academy’s commitment to blending inspiration with fun and creativity.
Workshops, Leadership, and Celebrity Mentorship
Over the course of four days, Dreamers engaged in a variety of career-focused workshops, leadership development sessions, and inspiring talks led by a diverse group of celebrities, educators, community leaders, and Disney executives. These immersive experiences are designed to equip students with the skills and confidence needed to excel in their future endeavors.
At the heart of the event was 2026 DREAMbassador Malia Baker, known for her role as Chloe Charming in Descendants: The Rise of Red. Baker connected deeply with the students, sharing her journey in the entertainment industry and participating actively in the Academy’s programming.
During the culminating celebration, which honors the Dreamers’ growth and renewed motivation, Baker surprised aspiring actor Micaela La Serna from Chapel Hill, NC, with a personal invitation to the premiere of her upcoming Disney+ film, Descendants: Wicked Wonderland.
Continuing Disney’s Legacy of Dream Fulfillment
The 2026 Disney Dreamers Academy once again proved to be a transformative experience, reaffirming Disney’s dedication to nurturing young talent and helping them realize their potential. Through mentorship, hands-on activities, and unforgettable moments, the program continues to empower the next generation of leaders, creators, and changemakers.
For those interested in learning more about the Disney Dreamers Academy and how to apply, visit the official website here.
