The Las Vegas Aces forward A’ja Wilson (22) eyes the basket for a free throw. The Aces lost in exhibition play at the Target Center in Minneapolis to the Minnesota Lynx on Sun May 1, 2022 (photo from Las Vegas Aces)

Las Vegas Loses A Close One to Minnesota 89-86

By Barbara Mason

After leading through the first three quarters, it was the domination by the Minnesota Lynx in the fourth quarter that lost this game for the Las Vegas Aces 89-86 in pre season play at the Target Arena in Minneapolis.

Las Vegas got a great start in this game and led 25-17 after one quarter. The Aces continued to dominate through the second quarter winning it 21-16 and leading at the half 46-33.

The Lynx were not able to gain any ground in the third quarter with both teams finishing with 26 points apiece. It was the fourth quarter that saw a total collapse by Las Vegas. The Lynx won the final quarter by a landslide 30-14 and it was just enough for Minnesota to take this game 89-86.

The Aces had taken a nice lead into the fourth quarter 72-59. With 6:24 left in the fourth quarter Las Vegas went cold. The Aces couldn’t buy a basket. They were unable to score until 1:54 and that was a free throw from Khayla Pointer one of two.

The lead that the Aces had taken into the fourth quarter had vanished and they now trailed 83-85. Las Vegas struggled through the remainder of the game in the losing effort.

It was a real disappointment for the Aces especially since they had led through three quarters. This was a game between two very closely matched teams. The Aces Kelsey Plum finished with 16 points for the high and for the Lynx Yvonne Turner had 15 points.

Next up for Las Vegas will be against the Phoenix Mercury on Friday May 6th. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM.