The Aces exploded in the third quarter to beat the Phoenix Mercury, 100-80, at Michelob Ultra Arena.

Up 44-42 at halftime, the Aces went on a 38-18 run in the third quarter to break the game open.  The 38 points were a record number of points in a quarter in franchise history.

“We really buckled down defensive,” said head coach Becky Hammon about the third quarter. “The girls really locked in.  Offensively we got out and we were able to run on them.”

Las Vegas was led by guard Kelsey Plum, scoring 24 points and going 3 for 6 from three-point range.

“We were a little complacent in the first half,” said Plum. “We knew that we had to step up our defensive intensity.”

“She just comes in and shoots the open shots,” said Hammon about Plum. “I think it’s going in every time.”

Forward Jackie Young scored 20 points, while Dearica Hamby and Chelsea Gray added 13.

“I think it’s just being confident shooting and being ready to shoot the next one,” said Young about her shot.

The Aces got 11 points and nine rebounds from Theresa Plaisance off the bench.

With the win, the Aces improved to 5-1 on the season heading into a matchup at home on Monday against the Los Angeles Sparks.

Las Vegas Aces – http://aces.wnba.com

Game Notes:

The Aces shot 47.9% from the field, while going 9 for 27 from three-point range.
Las Vegas forced 15 Phoenix turnovers.
The Aces out-rebounded the Mercury, 36-33.

Game Starters:

C – 22 A’ja Wilson
F – 5 Dearica Hamby
F – 0 Jackie Young
G – 10 Kelsey Plum
G – 12 Chelsea Gray

Aces Injury Report:

Riquna Williams – Out, Left Foot Sprain