Category: Las Vegas Aces

WNBA semi finals: Aces Get Swept Losing Game Three To Golden State 87-77

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Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson (22) who did most of the heavy lifting for the Aces couldn’t do it alone gets defended by the Golden State Valkyries forward Kayla Thompson (right) at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas in game 3 round 2 of the WNBA semi finals on Fri Oct 9, 2026 (AP News photo)

By Rich Perez

Friday evening the Las Vegas Aces faced their biggest challenge of the season. Trailing 2-0 in their semi-final matchup with the Golden State Valkyries Friday night’s game is a win or go home scenario.

In the first two games of this series, they struggled defensively not playing their best ball by any stretch of the imagination. This series. began at Chase Center in games one and two and Friday night’s game was on the Aces home court, Michelob ULTRA Arena.

The Valkyries won it in game three for a three game sweep in the best of five series with a 87-77 victory to advance to the WNBA Finals.

The Aces had the lead after the first quarter 19-16 their first lead of this series. They went on to extend their lead 45-36 at the half outscoring the Valkyries 26-20 in a hotly contested first half of basketball.

Golden State began to turn this game around in the third quarter taking their first lead of the game 53-52 in this high stakes contest. Going into the all-important fourth quarter the Aces needed to prevail or face the end of their season. They would be fighting to stay alive in this series.

The Aces barely outscored Golden State 19-18 in the fourth quarter and as the clock ran out on regulation this game was tied at 71.

Las Vegas stumbled through the overtime losing the game and the series. It had been a real struggle for the Aces in these semi-finals. The Valkyries are headed to the WNBA finals taking on the Atlanta Dream who also swept their series with the New York Liberty Friday.

GAME RECAP

The Las Vegas Aces faced their biggest challenge of the season taking on the second-seeded Golden State Valkyries facing elimination. They came out with a lot of energy playing at home their sixth player of sorts.

The Arena was bursting at the seams as fans watched the Aces as they took their first lead after a first quarter in this series 19-16. The Aces came out strong realizing they were on the edge of a precipice and had to win this game pushing the series into a game four.

They outscored the Valkyries in the second quarter 26-20 and led at the half 45-36. They were dictating the game with a lot of pace in the first half and would be looking to push that even further in the second half of the game.

There would be changes in the second half for Golden State looking to turn the game around and the Aces would need to defend those changes.

The Aces largest led of the game had been the nine points. The Valkyries had scored more points in the paint than Las Vegas although the Aces were shooting at 54% to the Golden State’s 40%. Las Vegas was looking more like themselves in game three. They would be looking to limit the turnovers in the second half.

A’Ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray were the only two players in double digits in the first half for both teams. Wilson had 11 and Gray with 15.

In the early minutes of the third quarter, the Aces took their first double digit lead of the game 47-36. The Valkyries fought back and with just over three minutes left on the clock it was a one-point game Golden State taking a 48-47 lead their first of the night.

The Valkyries continued to extend their lead and when the quarter came to an end they had a slim one-point lead 53-52. The Aces offense was faltering and the Valkyries were really heating up. Golden State had outscored the Aces in the quarter 17-7 and Las Vegas had to turn that around.

So far in this game, the Valkyries Gabby Williams had been held to only 6 points. Mid-way through the fourth quarter the Aces had taken a 62-57 lead. This would be a photo-finish. It had been a relatively low-scoring game for the Aces big three, Wilson, Young and Gray despite leading. The Las Vegas Aces bench had also been quiet.

The Valkyries started to match the Aces point for point and with three minutes left in the game; it was up for grabs. The Aces were hanging onto a 69-63 lead with just under three left on the clock.

The Las Vegas “big three” would have to step up like never before. A Wilson turnover resulted in a Golden State basket that tied up this game at 69 with under two minutes left in the game.

Las Vegas continued to sputter offensively. The Valkyries took a 71-69 lead with 32.8 seconds left in this game. The next Las Vegas possession would be critical and they could ill-afford any more misses.

Jackie Young tied up the game at 71 with 26 ticks left in this game. With 3.9 left on the clock the Aces had the final possession of regulation. Las Vegas was not able to cash in and this game went into overtime; five more minutes of basketball.

The Valkyries turned it into another gear in the overtime taking a 79-73 lead. Mistakes at the end of the game turned it all in the Valkyries favor. With under a minute left in the game, Gabby Williams hit the clincher giving Golden State an 81-73 lead. The final was 87-77 and the Valkyries had swept the defending champs and were headed into the WNBA finals.

GAME NOTES

The Las Vegas Aces got off to a strong start with A’Ja Wilson leading the way. This was a close game particularly in the second half with Golden State staying within striking distance. Some Aces misses late in the game allowed the Valkyries to take the lead and start taking control.

The biggest reason for the Aces loss was that Golden State was able to keep the pressure on Las Vegas and finish the game stronger.

It was especially disappointing for Las Vegas being the defending champs and needed this win to keep their championship hopes alive. The Golden State Defense made it difficult for A’Ja Wilson.

They used their length and physical defense to force Wilson to work really hard for her shots. Former Ace Kiah Stokes knew Las Vegas’s offensive patterns and helped to make life pretty miserable for Wilson. She had an amazing series. The Valkyries had more scoring help; their bench outscored the Aces off the bench 34-14.

The Aces just plain struggled to put together a complete game. They came so very close in game two and had a nice first half in this game but could not close it out. They had a fall behind and try to catch pattern that put so much pressure on their offense. A’Ja Wilson was 3 of 14 in the second half. The Valkyries put a lot of pressure on Wilson who finished with 21 points, Young with18 and Gray with 17.

It has been a great season for the Las Vegas Aces that ended in a most unexpected way. The Aces all look forward to another winning season in 2027. We as always appreciate having the opportunity to cover this amazing team.

Valkyries 1 Win away from WNBA Finals, beating Aces in Game 2, 83-81

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Golden State Valkryies Veronica Burton (22) takes the ball up the floor against the Las Vegas Aces in game 2 round 2 of the WNBA semi finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Wed Oct 7, 2026

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Valkyries take Game 2 of the WNBA Semifinals against the Las Vegas Aces, 83-81. After winning games 1 and 2, the series is now 2-0, and the Valkyries are one win away from their first trip to the WNBA Finals in franchise history. The Valkyries held a 17-point lead, but the Aces didn’t back down and were in Ballhalla. However, in the final minutes, the Valkyries were able to hang on and get the win, 83-81.

Las Vegas added a new face to their starting lineup with A’ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, Brianna Turner, and Stephanie Talbot. After missing Game 1, Stephanie Talbot has been listed as active. Talbot has been out since August 27th due to a left leg injury. However, Talbot was cleared and ready to play.

As for Golden State, they didn’t change their starters and went with Kayla Thornton, Veronica Burton, Cecilia Zandalasini, Kiah Stokes, and Gabby Williams. Williams led the team with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists. The Valkyries dominated the rebound game in their Game 1 victory; Golden State finished with 52 total rebounds over Las Vegas’ 25.

Valkyries Kayla Thornton gets the game going with a deep three-pointer, having Golden State strike first in Game 2 of the Semifinals. Golden State would hold Las Vegas scoreless for the first two minutes until Chelsea Gray made a three-pointer and gave the Aces their first points of the night. Valkyries Kayla Thornton would get another three-pointer to go in, her second one in the first five minutes of the game. The score halfway through the first quarter would be 10-5.

By the end of the first quarter, Golden State is up and holding the lead at 19-11. The Valkyries are still winning the rebound battle over the Aces; Golden State has 8 rebounds compared to Las Vegas’ 4. Also, Valkyries Kayla Thornton still hasn’t missed a shot from beyond the arc, going 2-of-2. Chelsea Gray and A’ja Wilson were the only players to score for the Aces.

Tiffany Hayes for Golden State started the second quarter scoring 5 straight points for them. Hayes ‘ 5-point eruption pushed the Valkyries’ lead to 13 points, 26-13. Hayes wasn’t showing any signs of slowing down; she would have 10 points in 3 minutes. At the midpoint of the second quarter, Valkyries still held a 13-point lead, 34-21.

Two back-to-back shooting fouls on Golden State, which Las Vegas quickly took advantage of. The Aces brought the lead down to single digits, a 9-point lead, 39-30. However, Thornton would strike again and make her third three-pointer of the night, and she remains shooting perfectly from deep. At the end of the first half, Valkyries held the lead by 11 points, 42-31.

Starting the third quarter, the Aces would come out ready and score 5 points in their first two possessions. They were able to bring the lead back within single digits, but the Valkyries’ shooting woke up. Valkyries Gabby Williams would make a 27-foot three-pointer to push the lead back to double digits for Golden State, 52-39.

Four minutes left of the third, Tiffany Hayes subs back in, and within 30 seconds of her playing, she would drop 4 points in that time span. Hayes would have 16 points and 2 steals with twelve minutes of game time left. On a positive note for the Aces, A’ja Wilson would drop 14 points in the third quarter, trying all her efforts to get Las Vegas back in the game. However, Golden State has led the entire time of this game.

Going into the final quarter of Game 2, the score was 66-55; the Valkyries were holding an 11-point lead on the Aces. Aces Jackie Young would get it going with a three-pointer, but the Valkyries responded with Kaitlyn Chen getting back-to-back layups to go in. Golden State would have a hard time containing Wilson down in the post, and she was able to get some shots to go in for her and the Aces. She would be able to cut the lead to 6 points, 70-64.

In the final four minutes of the game, each possession deeply mattered for both of these teams. The Aces were down as much as 17 and were now down by 5 points, 73-68. Then, with two minutes left, Las Vegas would make back-to-back three-pointers and tie the game, 74-74. Right after, Aces took their first lead of the night with A’ja Wilson getting a layup to go in, but Valkyries Williams responded with a midrange jumper.

One minute left, tied basketball game, 76-76. Valkyries Veronica Burton would make a big three-pointer to give Golden State their lead back, 79-76. That was the team’s 10th three-pointer of the night. Now, with nine seconds left on the clock, the Aces are down by three with the ball. Gray gets fouled, and since Las Vegas is in the bonus, Gray is sent to the free-throw line and makes both of her shots.

Gray brought the score 79-78, Valkyries holding a 1 point lead. The Aces had no choice but to foul the Valkyries; Kayla Thornton would shoot both of the free throws and make them. The score is now 81-78, so Las Vegas called their final timeout with one last shot to tie the game. Valkyries Burton would foul Aces Jackie Young, sending Young to the free-throw line, and Young made both of them, bringing the score to 81-80.

In the final possession of the game, Aces Jackie Young got sent to the free-throw line. Young would make the first one, but miss the second one. Her missing the second free-throw shot gave Las Vegas one more chance to tip it back in on the miss. However, the Valkyries were able to hang on and secure the rebound on Young’s miss and win the game.

Golden State Valkyries Tiffany Hayes had 21 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals in their win. Games 3 and 4 will head to Las Vegas, Nevada, as the Valkyries will take on the Aces in their home. Game 3 will be on Friday, October 9th, at 6:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast live on Peacock and NBCSN.

WNBA Semi Finals/Golden State Valkyrie game wrap: Valkyries trumped the Aces (card) 71-60, on a Sunday Afternoon inside Ballhalla; take Game 1 of semifinals

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Golden State Valkyries forward Gabby William (1) drives to the basket agianst the Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson (22) during first half action during round 2 game 1 of the WNBA semi finals at Chase Center in San Francisco on Sun Oct 4, 2026 (AP News photo)

By Michael Roberson

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif–Gabby Williams’ 25 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists, led her Golden State Valkyries (1-0) to a 71-60 victory over the Las Vegas Aces (0-1) in Game 1 of the WNBA Semifinals at another sold out Chase Center Sunday.

The Aces scored the first points of the game with a 3-pointer by Chelsea Gray.  That lead would be their largest of the game.  The 10-minute battle would have seven lead changes and 3 ties.  The Valkyries led by as many as four points in  the initial quarter,  Gabby Williams (13) and A’ja Wilson (10) both scored in double digits for their respective teams.

After ten minutes of WNBA action, the home team led by four points, 22-18. Noticeably, Wilson was kept off the boards early in the game, and the Valkyries were on the offensive boards.Although it was the feeling out period, Golden State would eventually open up the advantage to double-figures.

In the second stanza the Valkyries’ lead did get up to 11 points.  However, the Aces showed the pride of a champion and cut the deficit to three by the end of the quarter.  Both Williams and Wilson added five points to their totals by the recess whistle.  The Valkyries led by three points at the half, 34-31 Williams (18) and Wilson (15) also led their teams in scoring after 20 minutes of play, but the rebounding machine, A’ja Wilson only had one at that juncture.

In the second half, Golden State increased their lead to double-digits again, in the third (10) and fourth (13) quarters.  During the third quarter, Golden State immediately went up by seven points, prompting Becky Hammond to call a timeout. 

Later the Valkyries went up by 10 points, but the Aces kept fighting. By quarter’s end, the Ballhalla residents held on to an eight-point lead, 56-48. The two aforementioned team leaders garnered 20 points at the 30-minute mark of the contest.In addition to those two stars, Kiah Stokes grabbed ten rebounds for the Valkyries, and Chelsea Gray put up 15 points for the Aces.

In the final quadrant, the Valkyries went up by13 points, but still had to hold on to the lead by the final buzzer.  Despite the multiple double-figures leads throughout the game, each quarter was within five points of each other..  The final score was an accumulation of all the small leads and wound up being an 11-point final score, 71-60.

Golden State dominated the boards 52-25, with offensive rebounds going their way 17-2.  Those two glaring disparities were essential in the Game 1 victory for the Valkyries.  Especially with superstar A’ja Wilson being held to only 4 total rebounds.

The Valkyries presented two players with double-digit scoring, and thee with that plateau in rebounding. Gabby Williams accomplished both (25 points) and 11 rebounds), while Kaitlyn Chen scored 11 points, Kayla Thornton secured 11 rebounds, and Kiah Stokes snatched down 14 carrums.  

The Aces had three players reaching 10+ points, but absolutely no one with that amount of rebounds.  A’ja Wilson led them with 24 points, Chelsea Gray (16) and Jackie Young contributed 11 points of her own.

The two combattants will meet up again for Game 2 of the semifinals, Wednesday, October 7 inside Chase Center at 6:30 PM PT on the Peacock/NBC Sports Network.

WNBA Playoffs: Aces Outlast Fever In a Wild Game Three 94-83

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Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson (22) is pressured by the Indiana Fever’s forward Makayla Timpson (21) and guard Kelsey Mitchell (0) in round one game three at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas on Thu Oct 1,2026 (AP News photo)

By Rich Perez

Thursday night the Las Vegas Aces took game three of the WNBA Playoffs beating the Indiana Fever in Game 3 of a winner -take-all first round series 94-83. The Aces had home court advantage in this contest, the most important game so far this season for Las Vegas.

The Aces will move on while the Fever’s season came to an abrupt end. This was a battle between two of the greatest players to ever take the court, veteran A’Ja Wilson and Caitlin Clark. It was a real battle that went down to the final minutes of the fourth quarter.

This was a battle from the very start in the opening quarter ending with a 31-31 tie after the first ten minutes of play. The two teams traded baskets with both teams created a little distance.

The defending champs were favored by 4 1/2 points in this nail biter.. At the half the Aces had a 54-48 lead. Las Vegas continued to lead 70-65 as the third quarter came to an end although the Fever had cut the Aces lead in half.

As expected the fourth quarter was a wild one, a real nail-biter as the Fever continued to challenge with the Aces continuing to fight back. The final minute of the game was crazy with the Aces taking an 86-82 lead with 46 ticks left in the game.

Wilson was fouled by Boston, Wilson hitting both free throws giving her team an 88-83 lead. This was the time for the Aces to hunker down with 35 seconds left on the clock. Chelsea Gray was fouled to finish off this game off making both free throws. Las Vegas ran the clock out and is headed to the semi-finals winning game three.

GAME RECAP

This game got underway in front of a packed house at Michelob ULTRA Arena; The two teams traded baskets back and forth throughout the first ten minutes of play. Neither team was able to take any sort of lead going into the second quarter, this game tied at 31.

The game began to slowly turn around for the Aces in the second quarter. It was close to the six minute mark when the Aces took a four-point lead 40-36. With under four minutes left in the half the score was once again tied at 42. The Aces plugged away advancing their lead a little at a time taking a 51-43 lead with one minute left on the clock. At halftime Las Vegas had taken a 54-48 lead.

Las Vegas extended their lead in the third quarter; their largest lead of the game was twelve points. The Fever began to push back in the final minutes of the third quarter cutting the Vegas lead to six 68-62. The Fever went on a 9-1 run with 30 seconds left in the quarter. Going into the fourth quarter the Aces were hanging onto a 70-65 lead. Las Vegas was ten-minutes away from advancing to the next round.

It would all come down to the final quarter to decide the winner of this series. In the past Las Vegas had stumbled in the fourth quarter of games but has since cleaned that up. It would be a fight to the final seconds of the game. The outcome of the game would rest on the Aces defense. Keeping a handle on the Fever would be no easy task; two teams bent on winning game three and advancing.

The Aces had to continued to answer when the Fever got within two points 72-70. It would be the longest fourth quarter of the season for aces fans. Will the determination and grit of Las Vegas be enough?

Needless to say, the Arena was rocking as the Aces started to push their lead taking a 80-70 lead with four minutes left in the game. Into the fourth quarter the Fever’s big three Clark, Boston and Mitchell had scored 50 while the Aces leaders Wilson, Young and Grey had scored 63.

With just four minutes left in the game there was a lot of ball left to be played. We all expected a dog fight and these two teams sure delivered. With under three minutes the Aces had a 82-80 lead their offense faltering.

If possible the intensity of this game rose to an even higher level in the final minutes. It was Las Vegas that outlasted the Fever heading into the semi-finals winning game three.

GAME NOTES

Wilson did not want to go home that was apparent in this game three finishing with 36 points and ten rebounds for a double double in 37 minutes of play. Chelsea Gray had 23 points and Jackie Young had 18 points and eight rebounds. It was one epic game for Las Vegas.

The one thing Las Vegas was looking for was a better defensive effort and that’s just what they got. They controlled the game defensively. In Game 2 the Fever scored 99 points and in Game three the Aces held the Fever to 83.

The Aces made it a lot harder for Clark and Mitchell to generate the offense they had in Game 2. A’Ja Wilson despite being in foul trouble really bounced back from her performance in Game 2.

She was really involved Thursday night and forced Indiana to defend the paint. Jackie Young was important on both ends. She not only scored but also pressured Indiana’s perimeter players. Chelsea Gray was amazing in the fourth quarter actually taking over the second half.

The Aces did not have to entirely depend on Wilson but got some great support from their secondary scoring. That was something that really kept the Fever from loading up on Wilson.

Las Vegas will now wait to see who will be their opponent in the semi-finals. The Valkyries or the Wings will match-up Friday night. The Liberty will take on the Dream this coming Sunday and the Aces will wait to see who their opponent will be. Times for either of those game have not yet been determined.

WNBA Playoffs/ Las Vegas Aces game wrap: Aces Blow-Out Fever In Game One 102-85

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Indiana Fever center Aliayah Boston (7) goes to the basket against Las Vegas center A’ja Wilson (22) in the first half of game 1 of the WNBA playoffs at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas on Sun Sep 27, 2026 (AP News photo)

By Rich Perez

The Las Vegas Aces (31-13) finished off their regular season Thursday night beating the Phoenix Mercury 100-82 and now enter the most important stretch of their 2026 season.

The Aces enter the playoffs as the number three seed taking on the number six seed the Indiana Fever (28-16) at Michelob ULTRA Arena today. The final was 102-85 and the defending champs had taken the first step toward another title.

The Aces led for most of the opening quarter and at the 2:18 mark had gone on a 8-0 run. When the clock ran out on the first quarter, Las Vegas was holding onto a 27-23 lead. The second quarter got very tight in the early minutes but the Aces took back control leading at the half by a generous margin 62-47 their largest lead of the game.

The defending champs broke this game wide-open in the third quarter taking as much as a 27 point lead. When the quarter came to an end Las Vegas had an 86-65 lead. A’Ja Wilson after three quarters had shot for 30 points.

Las Vegas continued to hang onto the lead although the Fever did cut the lead somewhat. Indiana had created a deep deficit in the third quarter and could not recover.

The WNBA playoffs got underway Sunday with the third seeded Las Vegas Aces taking on the sixth seed, the Indiana Fever in game one of this three-game series. This could prove to be a very tough game for Las Vegas.

The Fever have a 2-1 win/loss record during the regular season and the Aces will be looking to turn that around. Las Vegas led for most of the first quarter and at 2:18 left on the clock went on a 8-0 run. When the quarter came to an end, the Aces had a 27-23 lead. The largest lead of the game for Las Vegas so far in this game was 8 points.

This game got uncomfortably close as the second quarter got underway. The Fever continued to threaten the Las Vegas lead and at 7:47 Indiana took a 34-33 lead. Jackie Young had been unusually quiet with only three points mid-way through the second quarter.

At 5:23 Young did indeed get going hitting a field goal giving the Aces a 42-38 lead. The Aces really got going in the second half of the quarter. Jackie Young made her second three of the day and Las Vegas had a 49-40 lead with 4:05 on the clock.

Young continued to hit three’s another one at 2:57 her third and the Aces had a 54-42 lead. Las Vegas was shooting 67% in the first half. As the clock ran out on the half Jewell Loyd hit the teams seventh three of the day and Las Vegas took a 62-47 lead into the locker room.

The Aces outscored the Fever in the second quarter 35-24. A’Ja Wilson was on fire shooting at 80% finishing the half with 22 points and six rebounds. Chelsea Gray had 12 points and Jackie Young was heating up in the second quarter with 11 points.

The Fever had two of their starters Aliyah Boston and Lexie Hull already with 3 personals and they had contained Caitlin Clark very well. The Aces would need more of the same energy in the second half.

It all seemed to come unglued for Indiana mid-way through the third quarter as the Aces took their largest lead of the game 74-52 going on a 9-0 run. With 1:32 left in the quarter, the defending champs had broken this game wide-open leading by 27 points 85-58. Las Vegas took an 86-65 lead into the fourth quarter.

The Fever began to chip away at the Las Vegas lead in the fourth quarter. The Aces 27 point lead had been cut to fifteen as Indiana controlled the early minutes of the final quarter.

Both teams were out of challenges in the second half both of them losing challenges. Las Vegas got back on track building their lead back up to twenty 93-73. With under five minutes left on the clock Clark and Boston each had five personal fouls. The Fever continued to fight cutting a 23 point lead to 17 with under 2 1/2 minutes left in the game.

GAME NOTES

It was yet another amazing game from A’Ja Wilson. When you think that she cannot get any better, guess what, she does. She blew this game out of the water finishing with a double double, 38 points and 16 rebounds. She was 2 of 2 from beyond the arc and 15 of 19 from the field. Jackie Young did heat up after a slow start finishing with 21 points and 10 assists.

A’Ja Wilson started off this game efficiently inside. She forced Indiana to deal with her near the basket early where she is a major threat. They really made Caitlin Clark work defensively. Early on Clark was only 1-for-6 with two turnovers.

Indiana couldn’t get it’s transition offense going in this game. The Aces shooting efficiency was improved shooting at 67.9% compared to the Fever’s 40.9%, a huge desparity.

Both Young and Chelsea Gray had a hand in creating offense. Young had ten assistss and Gray eight so Indiana had to defend multiple playmakers and could not concentrate solely on Wilson. The one thing that the Aces were looking to improve upon was defensive plays. They were far improved in this aspect not giving up many second chances.

It will be a quick turn-around for both teams in game two. That game will get underway at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Tuesday with an early 3:30 tipoff.

A’Ja Wilson Leads Aces to 30th Win Beating Sparks 89-79

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Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson (22) makes a rebound between the Los Angeles Sparks guards Rae Burrell (12) and Chance Gray (right) in the first half at the Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas on Tue Sep 22, 2026

By Rich Perez

Tuesday evening the Las Vegas Aces (30-13) played their final regular season game at home taking on the Los Angeles Sparks (16-27). The final was 89-79 in favor of the Aces.

They will finish the regular season on the road in Phoenix on Thursday. While the Aces cannot climb higher than third place in the standings, the Atlanta Dream are hot on their heels a half game behind them in fourth place.

A packed Michelob ULTRA Arena watched the Aces take a nice lead after the first ten minutes of play 24-11. Las Vegas took a 42-33 lead into the half. The Aces outscored the Sparks in the third quarter 23-18 but the Sparks did outscore Las Vegas in the fourth quarter 28-24 but it was the Aces double digit lead in the opening quarter that was enough to keep the Aces fairly comfortable the entire game.

GAME RECAP

The Los Angeles Sparks took an early lead over the Las Vegas Aces but once Las Vegas got going the Sparks trailed for the rest of the quarter with Las Vegas leading after the first ten minutes of play 24-11 which was the Aces largest lead of the game so far. Cheyenne Parker-Tyus finished off the opening quarter hitting the final shot with six ticks left on the game clock. The Sparks had trouble with ball protection committing eight turnovers in the quarter, the Aces had four.

Mid-way through the second quarter the Aces had extended their to 35-18. The Sparks started a bit of a rally as the clock began to wear down, with only three minutes until the half. They cut the 17-point Vegas lead to 11 points 35-24. Los Angeles continued to attack the rim closing the gap only trailing by six points 35-29 with 2:20 left in the first half. Las Vegas pushed back and at the half while the Aces had given up their double digit lead they did lead 42-33.

The only Las Vegas player in double digits at the half was Chelsea Gray with 11 points. The Aces needed A’Ja Wilson and Jackie Young to heat up in the second half. The Sparks were hanging around getting close but continued to play catch-up.

The Las Vegas defense as in their last game was not as tight as they would like and that was something that Chelsea Gray had talked about after their win last Sunday. They really want to get that defense back on course.

Erica Wheeler was finding gaps in the Aces perimeter defense. She was able to hurt Las Vegas in a couple of way; she could penetrate and create but she can also knock down threes. The Aces had to make Wheeler work even harder defensively. They needed to shut her down and force someone else to initiate the offense.

It’s not that the Aces were playing poor defense but they did allow the Sparks to stay within striking distance. They didn’t want this game to turn into a one or two possession game. It iwas interesting that Wheeler is not typically one of the Sparks primary scorers. Nneka Ogwumike leads Los Angeles in scoring.

The Sparks continued to hang around in the third quarter but the tenacity and grit from team leader A’Ja Wilson pushed this team’s lead back into double digits. With 1:58 left in the quarter the Aces had some serious momentum going leading 62-45. The Las Vegas bench was doing a solid job collectively scoring 21 points. As the third came to an end, Las Vegas had a 65-51 lead.

Las Vegas would be looking to finish strong in the fourth quarter. Mid-way through the quarter the Aces were holding strong leading 78-64. The bench did not take the court in the first half of the fourth, the starters trying to put this one away. The final was 89-79 as the Aces won their 30th game of the season.

GAME RECAP

The Aces had a strong third quarter giving them some momentum and despite being outscored in the fourth by four points it just was not enough to get the Sparks over the top.

The entire game, the Sparks did not go away getting momentum but the Aces answered every time. As we have seen so often A’Ja Wilson played the role of stabilizer. She continued to score inside and draw attention which prevented the Sparks from selling out against the perimeter.

The Ace’s defense was more effective at limiting the Sparks’ offensive rhythmn when it really counted. In the fourth quarter the Aces never let the Sparks turn this into a one-possession game. They maintained separation for most of the game. So Las Vegas won with control rather than on a huge run; they built a cushion and kept the lead at a comfortable distance until the clock ran out.

A’Ja Wilson had a double double in the game, 18 points and 10 rebounds the game high. Chelsea Gray finished with 17 points and Jackie Young and Stephanie Talbot each had 14 points.

The Aces will play their final game of the regular season Thursday night on the road. They will take on the Phoenix Mercury with tipoff scheduled for 7:00 PM.

Wilson Scores 30 Points As Aces Punish Seattle 98-77

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Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson (22) shoots over Seattle Storm center Dominique Malonga (14) in the first half at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas on Sun Sep 20, 2026 (AP News photo)

By Rich Perez

The WNBA now heads into their final week of the regular season. Sunday night the Las Vegas Aces (29-13) beat on the Seattle Storm (8-35) for a 98-77 victory at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas.

The 2026 WNBA season will play their final regulation game on Thursday September 24, the playoffs getting underway on Sunday September 27. Many of the players in the league are back from Germany where they played in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.

A’Ja Wilson did not travel to Germany not feeling 100% physically well and it was a priority to get her healthy with the playoffs on the horizon. After the first quarter of Sunday night’s game the Aces had a significant lead 29-18.

The Storm rallied in the second quarter coming as close as a single basket but the Aces pushed back leading at the half 52-43. The Aces would outscore the Storm in the third quarter 24-21. They really piled it on in the fourth quarter outscoring Seattle 22-13 and winning the game 98-77.

GAME RECAP

The Las Vegas Aces were back in action after a several weeks layoff due to the basketball tournament overseas. They took a 29-18 lead after the first ten minutes of play. They finished the opening quarter shooting close to 60%. The Storm was playing in their second game of a back-to-back. As the quarter came to an end, Seattle was starting to heat up.

The Storm rallied in the second quarter getting to within two points 31-33. They were giving the Aces all they could handle. With 4 1/2 minutes left in the half Las Vegas was fighting to keep the lead as Seattle threatened throughout the final minutes of the second quarter.

Jackie Young was on a heater scoring 16 points in the first half and A’Ja Wilson was in double digits with 14 points. The Aces heated up in the final minute of play taking a 52-43 lead into the locker room. The Seattle Storm had outscored the Aces in the second quarter 25-23.

As the third quarter came to an end the Aces were holding onto a 76-64 lead. Cheyenne Parker-Tyus hit a three to close out the quarter. They had outscored the Storm in the third quarter 24-21.

The Storm however had out-rebounded the Aces through three quarters 28-18 and Las Vegas would have to keep an eye on that going into the fourth looking to close out this game.

It was a solid fourth quarter for the Aces not only hanging onto their lead but extending it throughout the quarter. When it was all said and done the Aces had outscored Seattle 22-13 winning the game by the score of 98-77.

GAME NOTES

The Las Vegas Aces executed beautifully on offense in this game. They established control early although the Storm did threaten in the second quarter. The Aces maintained that advantage for most of the game.

Las Vegas had a strong start and they sustained offensive effort. They opened scoring 29 points in the first quarter and 24 in the third. This consistent scoring helped them not only build but preserve a comfortable lead in the fourth quarter.

The Aces offensive efficiency was really good shooting 48.4%. Seattle just could not keep pace with Las Vegas. They only scored seven points in the all-important fourth quarter.

The Storm fell behind early and they had a lot of trouble matching the Aces overall offensive output. Las Vegas maintained the lead throughout the game. The Storm never found the scoring consistency needed to make it a close finish.

A’ja Wilson reached the 1,000 point mark (1021 to be exact) in this game the second time she has reached this milestone. She finished this game with 30 points the high for the game. Jackie Young had 23 points and Chelsea Gray with 15. Three bench players Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, Mai Yamamoto and Ta’niya Latson each had eight points.

On Tuesday evening the Aces will matchup with the Los Angeles Sparks as they approach the finish line their goal to finish strong.

Chelsea Gray did say after Saturday night’s game that they need to work on defensive rebounding and you can be certain that they will turn that around. Tipoff for this game that will be played at Michelob ULTRA Arena is scheduled for 7:00 PM.

Aces On Fire Finish Off Toronto 93-73

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Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson (22) reacts after drawing a foul after a shot made during the WNBA game against the Toronto Tempo on Friday, August 28, 2026, at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.(RJ Forbus – The Sporting Tribune)

By Rich Perez

With the season rapidly winding down, the Las Vegas Aces (26-13) took on the Toronto Tempo at Michelob ULTRA Arena (11-27) and winding down the season on a winning note with a 93-73 win.

Currently in third place, Las Vegas would love to finish with a winning streak and possibly pull into second place in the standings. Friday night they took on one of the new franchises and the first WNBA team located outside the United States.

The Tempo are going through the growing pains that any new franchise more often than not experience. Las Vegas will be looking for their third win in a row.

The first quarter came to an end with the Aces taking a 27-17 lead. Las Vegas would be looking to extend that lead in the second quarter, the goal to build a significant lead going into the half. Las Vegas did indeed extend their lead outscoring the Tempo 29-22 in the second quarter and taking a 56-39 lead into the locker room at the half.

Las Vegas barely outscored the Tempo in the third quarter but continued to lead 74-55. The Tempo had dug themselves into a pretty deep hole as they continued to struggle against the all-around solid play from Las Vegas. Toronto played the Aces pretty even in the fourth quarter.

GAME NOTES

The Aces came out strong in the opening quarter. As Las Vegas have seen often, Jackie Young was on fire hitting three shots from beyond the arc. She finished the quarter with 12 points and was 4-of-6 shooting with three assists.

Las Vegas had excellent pressure forcing nine Toronto turnovers while only committing one. They created extra possessions and easy scoring chances. They were shooting 47% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc. The Tempo were shooting 43% from the field and 33% from three. A’Ja Wilson was helping create offense taking up residence inside.

The Aces continued their defense and the hot start from Jackie Young in the second quarter and that was making all the difference so far in this game. They did extend their lead in the second quarter outscoring the Tempo 29-22 and taking a 56-39 lead at halftime.

The largest lead for the Aces in the first half was 18 points. They were playing really clean with only five fouls and had 18 points in the paint. At the half the Aces only had one turnover while the 11 turnovers for Toronto resulted in ten Las Vegas points. The Aces also had six steals.

Toronto had 12 fouls sending Las Vegas to the line where they hit 13 of 14 shots. The Tempo was four of four from the line. The Tempo was really struggling with the Aces intensity and especially their defense. Las Vegas would like to close out this game in the third quarter.

A’Ja Wilson had already made 18 points in the first half with Jackie Young right behind her with 17. Off the bench Cheyenne Parker-Tyrus was on edge of double digits with nine points in only six minutes on the court.

Early in the third quarter the Aces extended their lead to 21, their largest of the game. They had beaten the Tempo last Sunday 88-78 in Toronto and were on course to create even more of a margin in Friday night’s game.

Toronto refused to back down however. The Tempo went on a 8-0 run five minutes into the quarter and the Aces needed to put a stop to the Toronto rally. The Aces 21 point lead had been shaven down to 13 points by the Tempo and Las Vegas had to get back on track.

The Aces had three turnovers in the third quarter as the Tempo brought a lot more intensity to the third quarter. Toronto was playing even with the Aces in the third quarter. As the quarter came to an end Las Vegas had pushed their lead back out to 74-55 outscoring the Tempo in the third 18-16. Toronto was going to back down although they had dug themselves into a pretty deep hole in the first half.

The Aces brought the pressure in the fourth quarter extending their lead back out to 87-62 their largest lead of the game with a little over five minutes left in the game. It would seem that the fourth quarter meltdowns that the Aces were dealing with a while ago had been completely cleaned up and they were peaking at the perfect time.

The Aces head to Seattle to face the Seattle Storm at Climate Pledge Arena just under the Space Needle on Sep 17th for a 7:00pm PDT tip.

Aces Take Sun Apart After Slow First Half 101-78

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Las Vegas Aces (center) A’ja Wilson (22) takes a jump shot against the Connecticut Sun defenders at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas on Thu Aug 20, 2026 (AP News photo)

By Rich Perez

The Las Vegas Aces (25-13) have assured themselves a playoff berth and now play for position. Tonight they took on the Connecticut Sun (9-26). After the first ten miniutes of play Las Vegas had the lead but by a single digit 25-24.

Unexpected yes but the Sun came out playing more aggressively than their record would indicate. Las Vegas began to turn it all around in the second quarter but the Sun came roaring back and at the half the Aces continued to lead by a single point 48-47.

The second half was a tale of two halves. The Aces outscored the Sun in the third quarter 27-16 and were leading 75-63 going into the fourth quarter. Las Vegas broke this game wide open throughout the final quarter. They outscored Connecticut 26-15. The final was 101-78.

GAME RECAP

Now that the Las Vegas Aces have assured them selves a spot in the playoffs position now becomes their focus and winning is imperative in order to do that. Thursday night the Aces take on a team that sits very close to the basement in the standings.

Because of their record, the way that the Sun came out in this game was totally unexpected. Britteny Griner was ruled out for tonight’s game. After the first ten minutes of play, the Aces were hanging onto a slim 25-24 lead.

The Aces had as much as a ten point lead in the game but when halftime came around, Las Vegas was still treading water with a 48-47 lead. The Aces would need to slow down the Sun. They came into the game a bit out of rhythm in the first quarter and seemed to have turned it around in second but let the Sun back in the game.

Las Vegas would have their hands full in the second half. The Sun had been getting good looks and they were moving the ball really well. The Aces needed to disrupt their rhythm and really needed some sharp defense.

In their last game against Atlanta Las Vegas’s defense was not on point and turnovers were horrendous. They have cleaned that up in Thursday night’s first half with only three turnovers. The Aces have beaten the Sun twice this season and the Sun came out looking like a team with something to prove.

Connecticut already had three players in double digits. In the second half, Las Vegas would need to start hitting shots from outside letting A’Ja Wilson work her magic inside. If the Aces could tighten up their defense and they have already put the stops on the turnovers, they have the talent and depth to start creating separation.

Las Vegas started the third quarter going on a 11-0 run and taking a 61-52 lead. Jackie Young was on a heater something we have been seeing quite often. Early in the quarter she had already hit 24 points. She was 3 of 3 from beyond the arc.

A little help from Chelsea Gray and A’Ja Wilson would be a good thing balancing out this offense. Mid-way through the third the Aces had their largest lead of the game 66-52. .After three quarters, the Aces had separated themselves from the Sun leading 75-63. They would have to play a clean fourth quarter with both Nalyssa Smith and Cheyenne Parker-Tyrus with four personals.

Las Vegas took over the fourth quarter taking their largest lead of the game a few minutes into the quarter 87-65. Connecticut was struggling with 17 turnovers as the Aces began to carve them up offensively. Las Vegas was out-rebounding the Sun 35-20. They had done an about-face taking control of this game offensively and defensively.

GAME NOTES

After struggling in the first half of this game, the Las Vegas Aces turned this game completely around. It all started in the third quarter when they outscored the Sun 27-16 and they never backed down for the rest of the game.

They dominated the boards finishing with 41 rebounds, 12 of them offensive to Connecticut’s 29. The extra possessions wore Connecticut down. Las Vegas took far better care of the ball committing only 11 turnovers to the Sun’s 19.

Jackie Young could not be stopped finishing with 24 points the game high and seven rebounds. A’Ja Wilson had 20 points and off the bench Cheyenne Parker-Tyrus was amazing with 18 points and nine rebounds. They totally dominated the second half of the game.

The Aces will now head out on the road taking on the Toronto Tempo. Tipoff for this game late Sunday afternoon is scheduled for 4:00 PM.

Aces Suffer Tough Loss to Dream At Home 97-82

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It was all a bad dream as the Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon had to be restrained by center A’ja Wilson (22) and assistant coach Larry Lewis after being ejected in the first half against the Atlanta Dream at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas on Tue Aug 18, 2026 (AP News photo)

By Rich Perez

After a bit of a slow start mid-way through the first ten minutes of play on Tuesday night, the Las Vegas Aces (24-13) tied up the game in their matchup with the Atlanta Dream (22-13) 12 apiece. The Aces finished off the first quarter with a slim 25-24 lead.

Mid-way through the second quarter the Dream made a huge move and did not back down for the rest of the quarter. They took the lead and continued to extand that lead taking a 52-41 advantage into the locker room at the half.

This was the Aces largest deficit at home this season. Las Vegas outscored the Dream in the third quarterk but did not make up much ground winning the third quarter 20-19. As the clock continued to count down in the fourth quarter, there would be no run for the Aces as they continued to trail Atlanta by double digits.

The Aces would get as close as six points but they had dug a deep hole going into the fourth quarter and the Dream would not let them back in the game. The final was 97-82 as the Dream went on a 9-0 run in the closing minutes to cinch the win.

GAME RECAP

It was a slow start for the Las Vegas Aces to start their matchup with the Atlanta Dream at Michelob ULTRA Arena. At the five minute mark the Aces tied up the game at twelve and took their first lead of the game at 1:51 in the opening quarter.

They had a slim 25-24 lead going into the second quarter. The Dream who are currently in fifth place in the standings are not a team to be played with and the Aces needed to step up before this game went into the half. Las Vegas would be looking to extend that lead before half time.

This game could not have been closer through the first five minutes of the second quarter but it took a turn in favor of the Dream for the remainder of the quarter. Atlanta pushed their lead out and continued to extend it leading at the half 62-41.

At 5:06 in the second Head Coach Becky Hammon got intensely heated over a perceived non-call on an A’Ja Wilson play. She didn’t let it rest but instead unleashed a furious verbal outburst at the referees. She was physically restrained by A’Ja Wilson before being officially ejected.

When the ejection took place it was a one-point game. The team would have to play the second half without her on the court. The best way to get the record straight would be for Las Vegas to go ehad and win this game but they sure had their work cut out for them trailing by double digits.

Las Vegas faced a tough task in the second half and it would not be at all easy. Since the ejection of Hammon it had not gone very well for the team. The starters for the Dream were playing a more balanced offense. Atlanta was making Las Vegas work much harder offensively than expected.

The Aces supporting scoring really had to step up in the third quarter. Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray along with the other perimeter players needed to capitalize when the Dream covered Wilson. The Dream had been attacking the paint all evening and getting transition opportunities.

The Aces fell behind in the third quarter by as much as 15 points but battled back going into the fourth quarter trailing 71-61. This season they have struggled in the fourth quarters of games but in recent outings this has not been the case.

The team had to get A’ja Wilson involved from the start of the quarter. She needed to attack the paint rather than settling for difficult jumpers from deep. Las Vegas had to force turnovers and scoring quick points instead of trying to chip away at the deficit. They could not afford another cold shooting stretch and Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray and Nalyssa Smith needed to step up. They would need a major run to start the quarter and get the momentum back.

The fourth quarter did not get underway very well for Las Vegas. They continued to trail by double digits 2 1/2 minutes into the quarter. At 7:30 the Aces cut the double digits into a nine point deficit but it did not last long as the Dream punched back taking a 12 point lead 82-70.

As the clock continued to wind down to the mid-way point of the fourth quarter the Dream were stubbornly hanging onto a 83-73 lead. With three minutes left in the game, the Aces desperately needed stops and it just wasn’t happening.

With just under two minutes left on the clock the Dream had a six point lead. Atlanta hung tough causing a turnover with a little over a minute left to play and this game was all but over. The final was 97-82 and the Dream had successfully won a road game in Las Vegas.

GAME NOTES:

It was a tough loss for the Aces. It all seemed to unravel after the ejection of Head Coach Becky Hammon. They were only trailing by one point when Hammon left the court in the second quarter. A’Ja Wilson had the game high a double double with 27 points and 14 rebounds. Jackie Young had 24 points, Chelsea Gray with 13 and Nalyssa Smith with ten. The rebound battle was almost even but Las Vegas had 17 turnovers which hurt them.

The Dream’s Angel Reese also had a double double with 21 points and ten rebounds. The high for the Dream was Rhyne Howard who finished with 23 points.

On Thursday night the Aces will try to re-group as they take on the Connecticut Sun remaining at ULTRA Michelob Arena. Tipoff for this game is scheduled for 7:00 PM.