Category: WNBA

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: Caitlin Clark The Savior of the WNBA 

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Caitlin Clark guard (22) of the Indiana Fever drives on the Chicago Sky forward Isabelle Harrison (20) at the United Center on Jun 23, 2024. Clark is looked at as the savior of the WNBA who struggled before she joined the league (AP News photo)

Caitlin Clark: The Savior of the WNBA

That’s Amaury News and Commentary

By Amaury Pi-González

Historically, the WNBA was an obscure basketball league; it received little media coverage, few people attended its games, and even the Poker championship on ESPN had higher TV ratings; in other words, nobody followed the WNBA. Compared to the NBA, the WNBA was like an “afterthought”. By the way, Australia and China also have similar leagues of lesser caliber; nonetheless, they are professional women’s leagues.

If you are of age, you can remember Cassius Clay (later Muhammad Ali), who brought boxing back from the dark days of obscurity, making professional boxing a huge mainstream sport with multi-million-dollar fights/contracts and television like never before. I am not comparing Caitlin Clark to Muhammad Ali, who became a world figure, an iconic cultural figure who, during his boxing years, was much more recognized worldwide than U.S. presidents.  Ali definitely changed boxing; he was the main promoter. The “Thrilla in Manila” Ali vs Frazier fight in 1975 had a global audience estimated at up to 1 billion.

Before Caitlin Clark played in the WNBA, the average player salary was around $60,000; today, it’s around $600,000. A’.Ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces earns $1,400,000, and she is not alone; other players have similar contracts in a league that was once barely mentioned, -if at all- in sports newsrooms across the country. I know because I was there.

Some WNBA teams are owned by high-profile owners, like the Golden State Valkyries, owned by Joe Lacob and Peter Guber (co-owners of the NBA Golden State Warriors), and the Las Vegas Aces, owned by Mark Davis, owner of the NFL Las Vegas Raiders, and partial owner Tom Brady. The Aces won the championship last season.

Players’ unions do not build statues for their players; that is left to team management to do for their biggest stars, who are their employees, but a case could be made that a statue would someday be built for Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever because she made this league what it is today.

I know the “Savior” label isn’t popular with existing players, because some veterans feel they aren’t recognized for the work and talent they also brought to the league, and let’s face it, jealousy exists.  But considering where the WNBA was when they were founded in 1996 and where it is today, in my opinion, Caitlin Clark saved this league because it is true, like it or not.

Quote: “Go after things people say you can’t do because more times than not, you can.” -Caitlin Clark

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⚡Craft cocktails? Check.
🔥Game-day bites? Oh yeah.
🏟️Steps from Golden 1 Center? You bet.

Open daily, Cyprus Grille is serving up local flavor with a front-row seat to the action. Stop by before or after the game—or make it your new downtown hangout.

Cyprus Grille—where fans fuel up.

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Happy Hour – 4pm-6pm

Show your ticket for additional discounts when dining in. 

Aces Not Only Beat Mystics a Second TIme 83-76 But Also Secure Playoff Spot

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Las Vegas Aces Jackie Young (0) celebrates a shot during a WNBA basketball game against the Washington Mystics at Michelob ULTRA Arena on Thu Aug 13, 2026 (Las Vegas Review Journal photo)

By Rich Perez

It was another roller coaster game between the Las Vegas Aces (24-11) and the Wahington Mystics (19-14). The Mystics put up a fight winning the second and third quarters but it was the hot start for the Aces leading after the first quarter 25-16 and finishing the game off in the fourth quarter where they have struggled at times this season outscoring the Mystics 25-21 and winning this second game against Washington in so many days 83-76 Thursday at Michelob ULTRA Arena.

As this game wore on it became all too apparent that tonight belonged to Jackie Young. She had a season high 32 points. She had the hot hand and she was unstoppable. With this win Las Vegas now is assured a spot in the playoffs.

GAME RECAP

The Las Vegas Aces got the hot start they were looking in the opening quarter of tonight’s game taking a 25-16 lead. After beating the Mystics this past Tuesday Washington was looking for a little payback. Las Vegas shut that down with a game opening 14-2 run leading by nine points after the first ten minutes of play.

When it was all going the Aces way they stalled out missing their first eight shots of the second quarter letting Washington outscore them 16-13 in the quarter. The Aces still had the lead at the half but had let the Mystics make the score just a bit close after two quarters 38-32.

The Mystics went into the third quarter with a lot of energy again outscoring the Aces 23-20 and after three quarters only trailed by three points 58-55. It was a new ball game and Las Vegas would again have to separate themselves from Washington in the fourth quarter.

The Aces did separate themselves from the Mystics with a Jackie Young takeover. She scored 12 straight points for Las Vegas down the stretch fending off a Mystic push. She finished off some terrific offensive play with a three-pointer at around the four minute mark. She would finish the night with a season-high 32 points that not only won the game 83-76 but also secured a spot in the playoffs.

GAME RECAP

It went exactly how the Las Vegas Aces saw this rematch beating the Mystics for a second time 83-76. There is always that one player on this team that steps up and tonight Jackie Young led the surge with an incredible scoring performance and some clutch shooting.

She took over the game and there wasn’t a whole lot that Washington could do about it. The Mystics did a great job limiting scoring by A’Ja Wilson but in doing so left Young open to wreak havoc. Wilson finished with 15 points and 6 rebounds and Jewel Loyd shot for 13 points off the bench but it was the Jackie Young show for most of the night.

Las Vegas had a solid defensive game forcing 12 turnovers that resulted in 21 points for the Aces. They limited the Mystics to 24-of-59 shooting and their protection in the paint also contributed to this win. The interior presence of A’Ja Wilson alone was daunting for Washington.

The one thing that Las Vegas will be looking to clean up as far as tonight’s game goes will be some disappointing shooting in the second quarter. Other than the rough patch in the second quarter they played a great game feeding the ball to the player with the hot hand Thursday night. Wilson lured them into double coverage leaving Jackie Young open and she took full advantage.

The Aces will be back on the court this Saturday evening taking on the number one team in the WNBA the Minnesota Lynx at Michelob ULTRA Arena. Las Vegas will get a taste of this year’s playoffs as they take on the best of the best. After these last two games they appear to be ready to take on any challenge. Tipoff for this game is scheduled for 5:00 PM PDT.

Valkyries Win on Violet’s Birthday over Chicago Sky, 91-71

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Golden State Valkyries’ Tiffany Hayes, front, steals the ball from Chicago Sky’s Gabriela Jacquez in the first half of a WNBA basketball game in San Francisco, Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026. (Photo credit Carlos Avila Gonzalez/San Francisco Chronicle via AP)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – Wednesday night was not just any ordinary night in Ballhalla. The Golden State Valkyries honored and celebrated their mascot Violet’s birthday. So the Valkyries wanted to get this win for Violet and extend their winning streak to five games, and they did. The Valkyries hosted the Chicago Sky and won by 20 points, 91-71.

Golden State Valkyries were riding a four-game winning streak but lost two key players who have been a huge part of the Valkyries’ success this season. The team lost Janelle Salaun (right knee) and Kiah Stokes (Concussion protocol) for this home game, with their return still questionable. So Golden State sent out guards Veronica Burton, Gabby Williams, forwards Cecilia Zandalasini, Kayla Thornton, and center Laeticia Amihere.

Chicago came into Ballhalla riding a two-game losing streak, with their most recent loss to Seattle at the Storm’s home, with the final score being 97-88. Sky also announced yesterday that the team would play without their guard Sydney Taylor (groin). So Chicago went with guards Courtney Vandersloot, Jacy Sheldon, forwards Natasha Cloud, Azura Stevens, and center Kamilla Cardoso.

Chicago Sky Natasha Cloud would get the first bucket of the game, going inside the paint for a quick lay-up. Then, after another made jump shot from Sky, Golden State Valkyries Veronica Burton hits a 27-foot three-pointer to give Golden State their first basket. Chicago has gone 6-for-9 and has taken an early 7-point lead. Sky is relying heavily on their midrange shots, and those shots are falling for them.

At the end of the 1st quarter, Sky found their offensive rhythm fast and collected nine team assists in the first ten minutes of play. The lead would extend for the Valkyries by eight points, 24-16. Chicago’s early offensive success was huge for Sky since they’ve seen season struggles on the road. Sky has gone 4-12 on the road, and the team uses 16 players, which is the 2nd most in the WNBA.

In the second quarter, it was a huge turnaround for the Golden State Valkyries. After just dropping 16 points in the 1st, the Valkyries would drop 27 points in the 2nd quarter alone. Valkyries Tiffany Hayes had a big contribution to that, coming off the bench. She also got help from her teammate, Gabby Williams. Their hustle and determination were necessary to take over this game. They both would drop 6 points each in this quarter.

At the end of the 2nd quarter, Golden State would hold the lead over Chicago at 43-40. Sky was only able to drop 16 points, compared to the hot start they had in the 1st when they dropped 24 points on the Valkyries. After that, the Valkyries took advantage of their home court and just locked in on their offensive plan, and their defense was starting to become a problem for Chicago.

Going into the 3rd quarter, we saw the Valkyries continue from where they left off in the 2nd quarter and just keep giving Chicago a hard time in Chase Center. This quarter would be another huge scoring quarter for Golden State, as this time, the team dropped 29 points in the 3rd. Again, Valkyries Tiffany Hayes had her foot on the gas the entire game, and really in the 3rd quarter. Hayes showed her mobility and athleticism as she kept attacking the basket and was getting sent to the free throw line because Chicago’s only response to stopping her was just fouling her.

Heading into the final quarter, it was all smooth sailing for Golden State. With Chicago struggling to get any points for themselves, the Valkyries’ defense was also a factor in that. Golden State would finish the game with 16 steals on Chicago. As the game clock would wind down, Golden State would get the win by 20 points at home, with the final score being 91-71. Tiffany Hayes would lead Golden State while coming off the bench with her 22 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block. This was all done in less than 20 minutes, 17 minutes to be exact.

The Valkyries are gonna get a five-day rest before they return to action in Ballhalla. Golden State will host the Dallas Wings on Monday night, August 17th, with tip-off being at 7 p.m. Dallas is currently in 4th place in the Western Conference division. The game will be broadcast live on Peacock.

Aces Shatter Mystics 7-Game Winning Streak With an 86-76 Victory

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Ace guard Chelsea Gray, right, drives the ball against Washington Mystics forward Michaela Onyenwere during a WNBA basketball game at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas on Tue Aug 11, 2026 (Las Vegas Review Journal)

By Rich Perez

The Washington Mystics (19-13) started strong in the first quarter of play but their 7-point lead was erased after an Aces (23-11) time-out that led to a 22-19 Las Vegas lead going into the second quarter.

The sixth place Mystics were giving the Aces all they could handle in the second quarter. When the first half came to an end this game was all tied up at 41. Las Vegas took their largest lead in the game 63-54 in the third quarter but the Mystic pushed back trailing by only three points going into the fourth quarter 60-63.

The Aces have been outscored in the fourth quarter far too many times this season and they need to turn that around as the season is rapidly winding down. With under four minutes left in the game Las Vegas had taken their largest lead of the game 75-65. The final was 86-76, the Aces breaking the Mystics seven game winning streak Tuesday night.

GAME RECAP

The Las Vegas Aces got a bit of a slow start in their game against the Washington Mystics with the Mystics taking as much as a seven point lead. Las Vegas called a time-out in the opening quarter and came back on the court with more fire taking a 22-19 lead going into the second quarter. Tuesday night unlike their last game against the New York Liberty A’Ja Wilson, Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray all took the floor after sitting the New York game out.

The second quarter was hotly contested with neither team able to distance themselves from their opponent. Every time the Aces took the lead, the Mystics answered and at the half this game was tied at 41. Getting past Washington despite playing at Michelob ULTRA Arena would be no easy task.

Jackie Young had scored 13 points in the first half but was the only Las Vegas player in double digits. Both A’Ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray were a basket away from double digits. The Aces were losing the rebound battle and the Mysetics were making the Aces work hard for every possesson.

Washington right now is one of the hottest defensive teams around looking to extend their seven game winning streak. The Mystics Shakira Austin has been playing some solid basketball and Washington was not at all intimidated by A’Ja Wilson. The Mystics did beat Las Vegas in July in a close game 100-99. If they continue to play loose and confidently in the second half they could present problems for Las Vegas.

The good new for the Aces is that they were not trailing after the first half and they have an entire half to make adjustments by getting Wilson more involved inside and tightening up the defense on Austin.

The Aces will be looking to take this first game of a two-game series. Las Vegas had five steals to the Mystics two in the opening half and Washington also had nine turnovers. The Aces were protecting the ball well only committing four turnovers. It promises to be a wild second half of basketball.

Five minutes into the third quarter both A’Ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray had double digits. The Aces continued to hold onto the lead but the Mystics were not going anywhere threatening to take the lead throughout the third quarter.

Coming out of a time-out, Las Vegas went on a crazy run taking a 63-54 lead, their largest of the game. The third quarter would come to an end with the Aces lead cut down to 63-60.

This game turned into to a crazy battle in the paint throughout the fourth quarter. Las Vegas would have to come up big in the final quarter after struggling in many fourth quarters this season.

The Aces again took a sizeable lead in the early minutes of the fourth 71-62 and halfway through the final quarter had a 75-65 lead. With one minute left in the game, the Aces had sealed the deal taking a 84-73 lead. The Mystics winning streak had come to an end losing to Las Vegas 86-76.

GAME NOTES

It was a huge game for both A’Ja Wilson and Jackie Young. Wilson finished the game with a double double 26 points and 13 rebounds. Young had 25 points and Nalyssa Smith also with a double double, 11 points and 11 rebounds. Las Vegas had a great fourth quarter outscoring the Mystics 23-16.

The Mystics put up a great fight through the first three quarters of the game. They had three players in double digits. Kiki Iriafen had a double double finishing with 15 points and 13 rebounds. The high for the Mystics was Shakira Austin with 20 points and eight rebounds.

It was the fourth quarter when the Aces finally separated themselves from Washington. The Mystics offense stalled in the fourth quarter and they let A’Ja Wilson take over late giving Las Vegas control finishing off Washington. Las Vegas defended much better in the closing minutes and very important, Las Vegas did not panic when the Mystics made runs.

These two teams will be back at it on Thursday when they will meet for a second time. The Mystics will be looking to even the series but after missing the New York game, it really looks like Wilson, Young and Gray are back and ready to finish off the season on a high note. Tipoff for Thurday’s game is scheduled for 7:00 PM.

Las Vegas Aces podcast Michael Roberson: Aces get crushed by Liberty; Vegas rests 3 key starters in loss

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Liberty guard Marine Johannes, center, scored a career-high 27 points Sunday against a depleted Las Vegas Aces lineup. John Jones / Imagn Images via Reuters Connect

Las Vegas Aces podcast Michael Roberson:

#1 Marine Johannes of the New York Liberty paved the way with 27 points, seven 3 pointers defeating the visiting Las Vegas Aces 111-71.

#2 The Aces head coach Becky Hammon rested three of her top starters A’ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young.

#3 With Wilson, Gray and Young out of the line up the Aces were out their average 57 points per game.

#4 The Aces started Brianna Turner, Dana Evans, and Jewell Lloyd who just couldn’t get enough offense going to keep up with the Liberty. Turner, Evans, and Lloyd combined for eight points.

#5 Next up for the Aces the Washington Mystics on Tuesday night. Mystics are fifth in the WNBA at 19-12 and are on a seven game win streak. The Aces are 22-11, 4.5 games out of first and have played .500 ball in their last ten games going 5-5.

Michael Roberson is a WNBA podcast contributor at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Golden State Valkyries podcast Michael Roberson: Thornton leads Vaklyries with 20 points in 92-82 win

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Golden State Valkyries guard Veronica Burton (22) heads down the floor against the Toronto Tempo at Chase Center in San Francisco on Tue Aug 4, 2026 (Golden State Valkyries photo)

Golden State Valkyies podcast Michael Roberson:

#1 Golden State Valkyries Janelle Salaun scored 21 points and Kayla Thornton scored two three pointers and got two more in the early minutes of the second half finishing with a total of 20 points for a 92-82 win on Tuesday night.

#2 The Valkyries Veronica Burton scored 12 points, grabbed eight rebounds, and had seven assists in this second of two games with the Toronto Tempo. The Valkyrie also won the first game 96-79 on Sunday.

#3 Salaun owns the Tempo scoring 61 points over the last three games against Toronto and hit 8-12 and got four 3 pointers finishing with 21 points on Tuesday night.

#4 Michael, talk about how beneficial it is for a traveling team to stay in a city like the Tempo did and play two games over three days. It gives a visiting team some rest rather than play one night and fly out that same night.

#5 Next up for the Valkyrie they hit the road against the Dallas Wings Fri Aug 7th for a 6:30pm PDT tip off. The Valkyrie have won 11 of their last 13 games going into Friday’s game.

Michael Roberson does the Golden State Valkyrie podcasts at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

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Golden State gets the Win & Season Sweep on Toronto, 92-82, on South Asian Heritage Night

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Golden State Valkyries forward Kayla Thornton (#5) makes a 24-foot three-point jumper in a WNBA game at Chase Center on Tuesday, August 4th, 2026, in San Francisco, CA. (Photo credit Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Valkyries (21-9) ran it back with the Toronto Tempo (10-20) on Tuesday night just two days ago, on Sunday, after hosting and beating them by 17 points, 96-79. That win brought Golden State to a 2-0 season series lead on Toronto. So with that, once again, the Valkyries would beat Tempo, 92-82, as Chase Center and Ballhalla celebrated South Asian Heritage Night.

In their last game on Sunday, Valkyries Janelle Salaun would have herself a game. She would lead Golden State with her 24 points and three rebounds, and finish with two assists in the win over Toronto. Salaun’s effort coming off the bench was exactly what the Valkyries needed to win the game. Salaun shot nine for 15 with three-pointers, but just missed her career-high of 26 points on July 8th at Toronto.

Toronto entered this game on a six-game losing streak. Tempo was just, well, looking for their “tempo” and to turn things around this season. They were led by Nyara Sabally with her 19 points, eight rebounds, and one assist. Her presence and efforts in the paint were able to keep Toronto in the game, but not enough to overcome Golden State’s 29-point fourth quarter. Toronto started with guards Kiki Rice, Julie Allemand, forwards Laura Juskaite, Maria Conde, and center Nyara Sabally.

Valkyries guard Veronica Burton contributed to the team’s win with 17 points, two rebounds, and six assists. Valkyries were also perfect on the second chance points, going five for five, and finishing with 13 points in that category. So with that, head coach Natalie Nakase sent out guards Veronica Burton, Gabby Williams, forwards Cecilia Zandalasini, Kayla Thornton, and center Kiah Stokes.

Just like Sunday’s game, Ballhalla had a different look for their fans. The Valkyries played on the Chase Freedom Custom Court, the first-ever Valkyries’ custom court and the only one dropped in the WNBA this season so far. For every made Valkyries shot, Chase Freedom will donate $1,000 to the Golden State Community Foundation to support youth development and education across the Bay Area. The Valkyries generated a $49,000 donation after 33 field goals and 16 free throws made.

Valkyries Cecilia Zandalasini would get the game going with a step-back three-pointer, giving an early spark to Golden State. Then teammate Kayla Thornton would knock down back-to-back three-pointers and push the score to 9-2. In fact, the first four baskets for Valkyries were all three-pointers. However, Toronto was determined to turn things around, and they did thanks to Tempo Marina Marbey, who would finish with ten points in the first quarter. At the end, it would be 25-24, Golden State holding onto a one-point lead.

Toronto, at the start of the second quarter, would knock down shots and focus more on their defense. In fact, the first five minutes of this quarter were all Toronto, as they would drop 14 points while Golden State had none in that time, to give Tempo the lead by 13 points, 38-25. However, with four minutes left, Golden State wasn’t gonna let Toronto go on a scoring run in their home. The Valkyries would cut Tempo’s lead down to four points, 40-33.

By halftime, it would be Toronto holding a one-point lead at 42-41. Tempo’s Maria Conde would lead her team with her 11 points, four rebounds, and two assists in this game. Valkyrie’s Janelle Salauan is once again playing great against Toronto so far, with her eight points and one rebound in this close one.

Coming into the third quarter, both teams were ready to make offensive moves and take control of the game. Although Toronto and Golden State would have impressive scoring runs, it would be Valkyries starting to take the lead with their 31-point performance. Especially Salaun, who is still going strong and attacking the paint. To end the third, she would see an opening and drive to the paint, with the foul and get the and-one, for a three-point play in the paint. Valkyries would take the lead, 72-68.

Going into the final quarter of the game, Valkyries’ defense would tighten up on Toronto’s offensive possessions to try and put this game away. With 5 minutes left in the game, the Valkyries held an eight-point lead on Tempo. Golden State would make some tough buckets to hold the lead. Valkyries Gabby Williams, trying her best to close this game out, drove to the paint and got her layup to go in.

With a minute left, no time outs for Tempo, and the lead at seven points for the Valkyries. One more clutch bucket would send Tempo back to Toronto with another loss. Then Tempo Marina Mabrey would foul Valkyries Kayla Thornton, and that would send her to the line for two free throws. Those free throws would ultimately be the dagger as time ran out for Toronto. Giving Golden State their second straight win, and the final score was 92-82. The Valkyries were led by Janelle Salaun again, with her 21 points on 4-for-6 at the three-point range.

The Golden State Valkyries will get a three-day rest before heading on to the road. They’ll head to the College Park Center and face off against the Dallas Wings. They’ll play against each other on Friday, August 7th, at 6:30 p.m. This will be the second time these two teams face each other, with Golden State winning the first one on June 17th, with the final score being 91-80.

Golden State Valkyrie game wrap: Valkyries impeded the Tempo 96-79, Sunday Evening inside another Sold Out Ballhalla

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Valkyries forward Janelle Salaün (13), who scored 24 points, shoots a 3-pointer over Toronto’s Kia Nurse (11) in the first half Sunday at Chase Center. Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

By Michael Roberson

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — The Golden State Valkyries (20-9) managed to overcome a blown double-digit lead and come back and overwhelmed the expansion Toronto Tempo (10-19) 96-79, in front of 18,064 fans in the Chase Center Sunday night.

The Valkyries opened the game with a 4-0 run, and had the crowd in a frenzy.  However, the Tempo had a 6-0 run of their own, to take the lead.  They held their advantage, before the home team fought back.  

Golden State finished the initial quarter with a 5-point lead, 25-20.  During the tense first quarter, there were four lead changes and two ties.  The heavily favored Valkyries appeared to have a battle on their hands.  The Tempo gave the appearance they were in the City by the Bay to play.

In the second quadrant, the Valkyries led by as many as 13 points, but managed to squander most of it by recess.  Toronto was on the verge of being blown out of the arena, but managed to forge their way back to a minute deficit, instead of double-figures.  By the time the halftime whistle blew, that 13-point lead was whittled to just one point, 44-43.

At the midway point of the game, one player from both teams managed to score at least 10 points.  Gabby Williams logged ten points for the Valkyries, while Nyara Sabally produced 12 points and seven rebounds for her Canadian organization after 20 minutes.  The Valkyries had some explaining to do at the break.

Although the Valkyries managed to score the first bucket of the second half, they were still in jeopardy of losing that previous huge lead.  Toronto did finally overcome that 13-point disadvantage at the 7:54 mark of the third quarter., 49-48.  The Valkyries were on their heels and about to disappoint the Bay Area faithful supporters.  The Tempo put the lead up to their top notch of a five point lead (56-51) approximately two minutes later.

Golden State managed to turn that deficit to an 8-point lead late in the same quarter, and eventually settled for a lead of six (67-61) after 30 minutes of WNBA action.  The Valkyries appeared to have righted the ship.

In the Final stanza, the Valkyries pushed the lead as high as 17 points, and took total control of the contest.  During the second half, despite lead changes, Golden State outscored the Tempo by 16 points.  Toronto’s coach even intimated that her team may have run out of gas in the second half.  They did have an uphill battle most of the game.

At the final buzzer, the full house erupted with joy as the Valkyries won their 20th game of the season, and fought off a potentially embarrassing loss.  After it was all said and done, the second year squad won in blowout fashion, 96-79.  The Tempo will have come right back at the victors in part two of the series.

Janelle SaSalaun led all scorers with 24 points.  Veronica Burton contributed 17 points and six assists, while Gabby Williams and Tiffany Hayes tallied 15 points.  Kiah Stokes grabbed 11 rebounds, to go with her eight points.

Toronto’s starting five all reached the 10+ points plateau.  The aforementioned Sabally led with 19 points and eight rebounds.  Rookie sensation Kiki Rice put up 16 points and five assists, Laura Juskaite (15), Julie Allemand (11) and six assists, and Maria Conde (10), five rebounds and five assists..

Both teams will be right at it in Ballhalla on Tuesday, August 4 at 7:00 PM PT on KMAX/KPIX+.

Aces Get Past New York In a Wild Game With An Even Wilder Finish 104-99

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Las Vegas Aces guard Jackie Young (0) drives on the New York Liberty’s center Jonquel Jones (left) and guard Sabrina Ionescu (20) in the first half at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas on Thu Jul 30,2026 (AP News photo)

By Rich Perez

The Las Vegas Aces (20-8) took on the New York Liberty (16-13) in was a highly competitive game between the two rivals. The Aces got a grip on Liberty with a 104-99 win at Michelob ULTRA Arena.

The Aces came out on fire with Jackie Young leading the charge hitting 22 points in the first half.

They took a 52-44 lead into the half and would need more of the same in the third quarter. The Liberty made some needed adjustments in the second half still unable to take the lead but getting to within a single point.

When it got so very close, the Aces pushed back taking a 70-61 lead with 3:25 left in the third. With a lot of time left on the clock this game was still up for grabs. A’Ja Wilson came alive in the third quarter scoring 18 points finishing with 28 through three quarters giving Las Vegas a 79-71 lead going into the fourth.

The final quarter was a wild one with the Aces coming out on top 104-99. There were some key plays down the stretch for Las Vegas and a little bit of luck thrown in as well.

GAME RECAP

The Liberty got off to a great start in the early minutes of the first quarter but the Aces came roaring back with Jackie Young taking charge. After less than four minutes into the quarter Young was on a heater leading the comeback rally giving the Aces a 14-12 lead. She demonstrated her ability to hit three-point shots going 3 of 3.

As the opening quarter wore on this game was off the charts competitive with the lead changing back and forth throughout. After the first ten minutes of play Las Vegas was hanging onto a 27-26 lead.

Las Vegas continued to fight back in an effort to push out their lead in the second quarter. Jackie Young had an incredible quarter scoring 22 points in the first half. She was on fire and the Liberty were unable to extinguish that fire.

A’Ja Wilson also had double digits in the first half but it was Young who had the hot hand. At the half the Aces had created a 52-44 lead. It was Las Vegas who was dictating the pace taking more and more control of this game throughout the second quarter.

The Aces hit 8 shots from downtown in the first half while the Liberty only hit four. Las Vegas had put themselves in a strong position although an eight point lead is not a safe lead against a team with the likes of Breanna Steward and Sabrina Ionescu aboard. Second-chance points could swing this game in the second half.

New York could not afford to give the Aces extra possessions. If Steward and Ionescu really get going attacking the paint then the Aces would have to work a lot harder getting open shots and they cannot have any sort of breakdown. We will for sure see some major adjustments from the Liberty and how the Aces handle that could very well determine the winner of this game.

There were fireworks in the first half of this game and the third quarter displayed more fireworks. After the Aces had pushed their lead out to 54-44, the Liberty pushed back and two minutes into the quarter New York was trailing by only four points 58-54.

The Liberty had even more energy than in the first half and they were making a real push in a one-possession ball-game four minutes into the quarter. Las Vegas needed to regain the energy they had in the first half.

The Aces were in foul trouble with Chelsea Gray and Nalyssa Smith both with four personals. A’Ja Wilson had hit 18 points in the quarter with 30 seconds left in the clock. Going into the fourth quarter Las Vegas had a 79-71 lead and they would need to continue to elevate their play to finish off this game.

The Aces started off the fourth quarter stripping the ball from Breanna Stewart and the race was on. After taking a ten-point lead the Liberty cut the Aces lead in half. They were not going down without a fight.

Despite getting close the Liberty had still been unable to take the lead although threatening throughout the fourth quarter. Both teams were coming away with empty possessions with 3:36 remaining in the game.

Las Vegas was still clinging to a 92-87 lead. It was crunch time in the final two minutes of the game with Las Vegas taking a 98-93 lead with 55 ticks left on the clock. Chelsea Gray fouled out with 20 seconds left in the game giving Ionescu a couple of free throws.

She made both but the Aces got a huge break when the officials missed a call that would have given the Liberty the ball trailing by 3 points with ample time to tie up this game. Las Vegas went on to win the game 104-99.

GAME NOTES

It was a wild game for Las Vegas. Both teams played their hearts out this game going down to the wire. An unfortunate break late in the fourth quarter for New York occurred when the officials missed a call that solidified the 104-99 win for the Aces.

A’Ja Wilson found her groove in the second half finishing with 33 points and 10 rebounds, a double double. Jackie Young had 29 points and Chelsea Gray finished with 16 points before fouling out.

This was an outstanding game for both teams and it was unfortunate when the officials, all three of them, missed a critical call that hurt the Liberty when they would have had then opportunity to at least tie up this game.

Not to diminish the Las Vegas effort but the bottom line is that these officials really blew it in the closing seconds something that cannot happen in a game the caliber of this one.

Brenna Ionescu had the high for the Liberty with 26 points and 11 rebounds also with a double double and Pauline Astier chipping in 19 points.

The Aces will now head out on the road; their first stop in Chicago taking on the Sky. They will face some challenges on this road trip with stops in Atlanta, Indiana, Minnesota and finally finishing off the trip taking on the Liberty once again. They will take it one game at a time with their first road matchup Saturday in Chicago with tipoff scheduled for 10:00 AM.

Aces Victory Determined In Opening Quarter Beating Portland 98-83

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Las Vegas Aces guard Jackie Young (0) takes a lay up against the Portland Fire’s guard Carla Leite (0) in the first half at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas on Tue Jul 28, 2026 (AP News photo)

By Rich Perez

The Las Vegas Aces (19-8) were looking for a fast start in the first quarter of their matchup with the Portland Fire (11-17) Tuesday night at Michelob ULTRA Arena and what they got was a lighning start leading after the first ten minutes of play 36-21.

They would be looking to extend that lead in the second quarter and take a sizeable lead into the half, a lead that could turn out to be unsurmountable. After leading by as much as 17 points in the first quarter they did not get the enormous lead at the half that they were looking for but they did take a good size lead into the locker room at the half 53-37.

The Fire had rallied in the second quarter but the Aces held steady going into the third quarter. Although the Aces have struggled in the fourth quarter of games they held on in this one for a 98-83 win.

They had led for most of the game. It was the first quarter that decided the winner of this game. For three quarters, the Fire played a really competitive game. They matched the Aces shot for shot with each team scoring 62 points in the final three quarters.

GAME RECAP

The Las Vegas Aces had a great start in their matchup with the Portland Fire taking a 36-21 lead after the first quarter came to an end. Las Vegas played with good offensive pace and got quality looks early. They got efficient scoring from their starters and strong guard play. They forced Portland into some difficult shots with some solid defense.

The Aces had led by as much as 17 points in the opening quarter but the Fire began to flip the script as the second quarter got underway. Portland cut the Las Vegas lead to six points mid-way through the quarter prompting a timeout.

The Fire continued to threaten the Las Vegas lead refusing to back down playing a much more competitive quarter than their opener. As the first half came to an end the Aces had pushed their lead back out to sixteen 53-37.

Despite the rally that the Fire forged in the second quarter the Aces did continue to control the pace of the game. They had hit seven shots from beyond the arc and they were a perfect 8 of 8 at the line. Each team had seven turnovers and Las Vegas would be looking to clean that up in the second half. A’Ja Wilson finished the half with 14 points, Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young each had 13 points. The only Portland players in double digits was Megan Dileo with ten points.

The Aces outscored Portland in the third quarter 27-26 keeping their double digit lead intact going into the fourth quarter. They were holding onto a 79-64 advantage.

The fourth quarter of recent games have proven to be low-scoring for the Aces this season compared to the first three quarters of their games. It has been the fourth quarter that has determined the outcome in games for Las Vegas at times.

Mid-way through the final quarter, the Aces continued to hang onto a sixteen point lead. 89-73. As the clock continued to wind down Las Vegas stubbornly hung onto their double digit lead. The final was 98-83.

GAME NOTES

This game was largely determined in the opening quarter. The Aces jumped on Portland early and controlled the game with their defense and star power. Las Vegas created a lead in the first quarter that the Fire never fully recovered from.

A’Ja Wilson set the tone being a major factor inside giving Portland problems with scoring and rebounding. It was not only WIlson that racked up the points with Jackie Young and others keeping the Fire from making a comeback. Portland’s slow start really hurt them and the Aces took full advantage.

A’Ja Wilson had the game high a double double with 28 points and 14 rebounds. Jackie Young was also on fire finishing with 25 points. Chelsea Gray chipped in 17 points and Jewell Loyd had 11 points off the bench.

The team high for the Fire was Megan Dileo with 20 points. Portland had a number of players finishing with double digits, Bridget Carleton had 13, and Carla Leite with 11 points. Off the bench Frieda Buhner was outstanding finishing with 16 points.

Las Vegas is now in second place in the standings tied with the Golden State Valkyries 2.5 games behind the Lynx. Thursday night the Aces will take on the New York Liberty at home. Tipoff for this game is scheduled for 7:00 PM as they fight to retain their place near the top of the standings.