Tag: Chicago Sky

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

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

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 Fight Through Overtime Beating Sky 98-90

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Las Vegas Aces guard Chelsea Gray (12) is fired up after hitting a basket that tied up the game and forced overtime against the Chicago Sky at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas on Fri Jul 3, 2026 (AP News photo)

By Rich Perez

The Las Vegas Aces (15-5) got off to a great start in their matchup with the Chicago Sky (6-14) leading after one quarter 22-19. The Aces really cranked it up in the second quarter outscoring the Sky 27-18 and leading at the half 49-37.

While the Aces held the lead at the half, they were outscored in the third and fourth quarters, in fact, they tied up the game in the final seconds of the fourth quarter to go into overtime. It was a wild overtime but it was the Aces who broke through coming away with the win 98-90.

Despite A’Ja Wilson watching the game from the sidelines with a right ankle/leg injury her teammates held their own. WIlson had initially been listed as questionable but ruled out at game time.

This was her second consecutive missed game after sitting out the Commissioner’s Cup this week. Friday night the team had to rely on Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray to generate offense and they really came through as did Nalyssa Smith in a monumental way finishing with the game high of 29 points and 8 rebounds. She was terrific. Gray, Young and Jewell Loyd all turned in double digits in this game.

GAME RECAP

The Las Vegas Aces outscored the Chicago Sky in the first quarter of their matchup at T-Mobile Arena 22-19. They would be focused on extending that lead throughout the second quarter.

The Aces again outscored the Sky in the second quarter this time by a larger margin 27-18 taking a 49-37 lead into the locker room at the half. They would need more of the same in the second half, keeping the pressure on the Sky.

It got a bit shaky in the third quarter when the Sky answered back outscoring the Aces 27-21. Las Vegas was hanging onto a 70-64 lead going into the fourth quarter. The Sky was taking away the paint and limiting offensive chances for the Aces and they desperately needed to turn that around.

The fourth quarter was a challenging one for Las Vegas. The Sky not only tied up the game but took the lead with 3:47 left in the game 82-81. Chicago took as much as a three point lead in the final minutes of the game. The Aces were able to tie up this game in the final seconds of the fourth quarter at 86 but unable to take back the lead. This game went into overtime.

With 2.38 left in the overtime this game remained tied at 88. Jackie Young broke the tie stealing the ball and scoring. With 1:14 left on the clock the Aces had possession and the lead 92-88. This game was going down to the wire.

With 1:08 left in the game the Sky were trailing 92-90 as referees reviewed a collision between Natasha Cloud and Jackie Young that resulted in Young coming away with a bloody lip.

If the review went in the Aces favor, the Sky’s basket and the Vegas foul would be taken away. It did go in their favor and the Aces had a 92-88 lead, Chicago losing the two points. Chelsea Gray hit another basket with under a minute.

The Sky fell apart offensively in the final seconds running out of time. They had played a great second half of basketball just coming up short in the overtime. The final was 98-90 in favor of the Las Vegas Aces.

GAME NOTES

This was a fight right down to the final seconds. The turning point was the challenge by Las Vegas with 1:10 left on the clock that went in favor of the Aces. Las Vegas went on to finish the Sky who began to miss the shots they had been making in the second half. It was a real team effort with the Las Vegas starters really stepping up in the absence of A’Ja Wilson. A lot of credit has to go to the Sky who played tough to the end of this matchup.

The Aces will have the day off Saturday but will be back in action at T-Mobile Arena on Sunday taking on the seventh place Indiana Fever. With the win Friday night the Aces are now tied with the Lynx for first place. Tipoff for Sunday’s game is scheduled for 4:00 PM PDT.

Las Vegas Aces Squash Chicago Sky 92-61 For 15th Straight Win

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Las Vegas Aces guard Jackie Young (0) is congratulated by guard Jewell Lloyd (24) and center A’Ja Wilson (22) against the Chicago Sky in the first half at T Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Tue Sep 9, 2025 (AP News photo)

By Rich Perez

LAS VEGAS–The Las Vegas Aces (28-14) had a good game against the Chicago Sky (10-32) Sunday winning that game 80-66 but they turned it up quite a few notches in Tuesday night’s game beating the Sky 92-61.

Jackie Young finished the game with the team high of 15 points. Nalyssa Smith, A’Ja Wilson, and Chelsea Gray all shot in double digits. Jewell Loyd hit her 6000th shot in this game also finishing with 15 points.

She is the 16th player to achieve this milestone. Dana Evans was a great bench support shooting for 13 points. It was an amazing effort for the Aces, their 15th straight win. This was their last season game in Las Vegas. They will finish up the season taking on the Sparks in Los Angeles this Thursday.

Game recap: The Aces got after it from the get-go leading 28-14 after the first ten minutes of play. The Sky played with more energy in the second quarter outscoring the Aces 21-15. Las Vegas would take a 43-35 lead into the locker room at the half.

It had been a quiet night for Aces A’Ja Wilson who finished three quarters with 9 points. Jackie Young had the team high through three quarters with 15 points and Chelsea Gray had 10 points. A’J’a Wilson reached double digits as the clock ran out on the third quarter with 11 points. Las Vegas was on their way to delivering the final punch with a 66-46 lead going into the fourth quarter.

Mid-way through the final quarter the Aces took a 77-25 lead and this game was a done deal. Las Vegas continued to extend their lead and with under three minutes left in the game had taken a thirty-three point lead 88-55.

The Las Vegas Aces had completely smoked the Sky. Las Vegas had hit 15 shots from beyond the arc. With 15 wins in a row, the Aces are now tied for the most consecutive wins in a season. The final in this game was 92-61. With this win the Aces are in contention for the second seed in the WNBA playoffs.

Thursday’s game against the Los Angeles Sparks is a huge one for the Aces. Las Vegas will clinch the second seed with a win over the Sparks giving them home-court advantage through at least the semi-finals. Las Vegas owns the tiebreaker over the second place Dream. This will be a finish that no one saw coming in the earlier games of the 2025 season.

Game notes: The Aces took on the Chicago for a second time in as many days after winning the first game between the two teams on Sunday. Las Vegas won that game 80-66. They played that game at T-Mobile Arena and will also play Tuesday night’s game at T-Mobile.

After losing to the Aces on Sunday, the Sky couldn’t adjust their game and came into this game not playing more competitively. Las Vegas made adjustments of their own. The Aces picked up their 15th straight win.

It has been an amazing run for Las Vegas and the jury is till out as to which team will be able to put that fire out if at all. It has been a magical turnaround for this team.

The Aces took on the Sky for a second time in as many days after winning the first game between the two teams on Sunday. Las Vegas won that game 80-66.

They played that game at T-Mobile Arena and will also play Tuesday night’s game at home. After losing to the Aces on Sunday, the Sky would need to adjust their game and came back playing a bit more competitively.

Las Vegas will no doubt be making adjustments of their own. The Aces got their 15th straight win. It has been an amazing run for Las Vegas and the jury is till out as to which team will be able to put that fire out if at all. It has been a magical turnaround for this team.

The Aces will now head down to Southern California to finish off their season taking on the Los Angeles Sparks. They will be in search of their 16th straight win. Tipoff for the Aces final game of the season is scheduled for 7:00 PM Thursday night. The WNBA playoffs will begin on Sunday September 14 and will conclude on or before Friday October 17 th.

Aces Finish Off Sky Winning #14 80-66 – Secure Playoff Berth

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Las Vegas Aces center A’Ja Wilson (22) catches the ball after blocking a pass from Chicago Sky center Elizabeth Williams (1) during the first half at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas on Sun Sep 7, 2025 (AP News photo)

By Rich Perez

The Las Vegas Aces (28-14) continued their wild run winning their 14th straight game beating the Chicago Sky (10-32) 80-66 securing a berth in the playoffs Sunday. They have come miles when you look back to the start they had in the 2025 season. It has been a beautiful thing with every player on this team a huge part of their playoff push. A’Ja Wilson finished the game with 31 points in her incredible run.

Game recap: The opening quarter was all Las Vegas. The Aces took an 11-0 lead before the Sky even got up on the scoreboard. After the first ten minutes of play the Aces had taken a 24-15 lead. A’Ja Wilson scored eight points in the first quarter and she was just getting started..

The second quarter was a lot closer than the opener although the Aces did outscore Chicago 19-15. At the half Las Vegas had taken a 43-30 lead. Wilson continued to hit shot after shot and going into the third quarter had 15 points and after three quarters had scored 27 points. Jackie Young was having a solid game with 17 points and the scrappy Chelsea Gray shot for 13 points.

This game went into the fourth quarter and it was clear that the Sky were being outplayed by the Las Vegas Aces. Both teams had shot 85% from the line. The Sky had out-rebounded the Aces significantly 37 to 25; they just were unable to hit shots taken.

The turnovers mid-way through the fourth quarter were horrendous for Chicago with 19 to the Aces eight. Fast break points were clearly in favor of the Aces with 24 points to the Sky’s five. The Sky conceded 22 points off turnovers while the Aces conceded only ten points.

The largest lead of the game for the Aces was 25 points. A’Ja Wilson so far has had five games with 30 or more points. She was on a roll as were her teammates and she raises the bar with every game.

With three minutes left in the game the Aces had kept up a double digit lead in the second half. As this season has worn on head coach Becky Hammon has been able to lean on the bench with Jewel Loyd and Dana Evans having great success.

The run they are currently having right now is a total team effort with everyone contributing. The final was 80-66 and Las Vegas had won their 14th game in a row. They have now won 16 of their last 17 games.

The Sky played well enough with every starter scoring double digits. Rachel Banham and Michaela Onyenwere each scoring 12 points. The remainder of the starters each had 10 points. They just could not handle the experienced Las Vegas squad.

Game notes: Sunday afternoon WNBA fans got another chance to watch the Aces reach their 14th straight win beating the Chicago Sky. Their streak has been amazing after a slow start on the season but now playing like gangbusters beating the very best in the league.

They have been consistent and focused taking each game one at a time playing the best brand of basketball that they can. Everyone of these ladies have been playing lights out and as a unit show no signs of letting down.

Sunday night they faced a Chicago team that played the first half without their ace Angel Reese. She had been suspended for making critical comments about not only her teammates but also the organization more than likely spurred by the horrible season the team is having.

She now has to deal with the repercussions of her comments sitting out the first half of Sunday night’s game but also facing a team meeting in regards to her actions. Reese told the media regarding her teammates,  “settling for the same sh-t we did this year.” “We have to get good players. We have to get great players. That’s a non-negotiable for me.

Unfortunately it may be some time before her comments fade and both Reese and the team can move on. She was eligible to play the second half but a coach’s decision had her sit the second half out.

The Las Vegas Aces have now secured a nice spot in the playoffs with two more games left in the season. Las Vegas will face the Sky one more time next Tuesday, this game also being played at T-Mobile Arena. The Aces will finish off the season down in Los Angeles at Crypto.com Arena. Tuesday’s game with the Sky will tip-off at 7:00 PM as Las Vegas will be in search of number 15.

Ties and Lead Changes In First Quarter Result In Long Overdue Win by Aces over Lynx 97-87

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Las Vegas Aces A’Ja Wilson (22) drives on the Minnesota Lynx Napheesa Collier (24) first quarter at the T Mobile Center in Las Vegas Thu Sep 4, 2025 (Getty photo)

By Rich Perez

LAS VEGAS–The opening quarter in this game was a mix of ties and lead changes but the Las Vegas Aces (26-14) really turned it on in the second quarter and never looked back in the second half of play winning the game 97-87 beating the Minnesota Lynx (32-8). This was their 13th straight win over the number one team in the WNBA. A’Ja Wilson had the team high finishing with 31 points.

It was crazy opening quarter of basketball with the lead rotating back and forth in a wildly competitive game. With under a minute left in the first quarter the game was tied at 24. As the quarter came to an end Las Vegas had taken a 26-24 lead.

The Aces were shooting at a 63% clip and the Lynx at almost 59%. The turnovers were kept at a minimum by both teams. Wilson already was shooting in double digit with ten points. This game could not have been closer. Both Wilson and Jackie Young had great starts with Young hitting her first three shots taken which included a couple of shots from the line. After the first ten minutes of play Las Vegas had a slim 26-24 lead.

The Aces came into this game ready and focused as evidenced in the first quarter. Mid-way through the second quarter Las Vegas had a 37-33 lead. The Aces needed more from not only their starters but also from their bench.

Both teams had their foot firmly on the pedal in this hotly contested game. So far Wilson and Young had carried the load for the Aces. After two quarters the Las Vegas Aces had a 47-44 lead. Wilson finished the first half with 17 points and Young with 12 points.

The only Lynx player with double digits was Courtney Williams with 10 points. Both teams had played a pretty clean game with only 6 turnovers for the Aces and 5 from Minnesota. Las Vegas had more bench points, more rebounds as well as more points from the line.

The Aces knew they had to show up for this game and that is exactly what they did. After the horrendous loss back in early August Wilson had said “that will NEVER happen again.” She held true to her word in the first half. The Aces had a nice opening quarter but really picked it up in the second quarter in this action-packed thriller.

The Aces had really put the stops on Napheesa Collier who is the WNBA’s leading scorer who only had seven points in the first half. Las Vegas took a 63-55 lead mid-way through the third quarter as they continued to fight hard.

After taking a pretty nice lead, the Lynx went on a bit of a run cutting the Aces lead to 63-62. The Las Vegas defense faltered in the closing minutes of the quarter leaving the basket unguarded resulting in six points.

This was a break-down they could not afford. The pick and roll was a key play for the Lynx down the stretch. Too many missed shots were really hurting the Aces. Las Vegas did get it rolling as the quarter came to an end taking a 70-66 lead.

Going into the fourth quarter, the Aces needed to pay attention to detail and put a stop to defensive lapses. Two minutes into the quarter Las Vegas had taken a ten-point lead 76-66. The Lynx came roaring back cutting the Vegas lead in half 76-71.

Five minutes into the quarter, the Aces had pushed their lead back out to ten leading 81-71. A time-out was called by the Lynx at 4:42 when the Aces took their largest lead of the game 85-72. Las Vegas hung onto the lead winning the game 97-87 for their 13th win in a row. What an incredible stretch for the Aces.

The Aces Wilson finished with the team high of 31 points. Young had 20 points and Chelsea Gray finished with 13 points. The Aces had to fight in this game defensively and stumbled here and there but did a pretty good job when push came to shove.

This team is headed for a great finish on the season; they are on a high and they want to continue this run next Sunday at home. There were no mental breakdowns in this game as Las Vegas hung onto the lead for most of the game.

Game notes: It’s no secret that the Aces are on an amazing roll right now. They have now won 13 games in a row beating some of the best teams in the WNBA. They for sure have a huge bullseye on their back. There is one team, however, that has made life pretty miserable for the Aces this season and that is the first place Minnesota Lynx (32-8)

They have met three times this season losing every game. Back in mid-June they lost 76-52, a 14-point loss and it just got more lop-sided with every ensuing game. In late July they lost to Minnesota 109-78, a 31 point loss and then a total disaster in early August a blow-out 111-58 giving up a WNBA record losing by 53 points.

It was Minnesota’s biggest road win in history. Thursday night they got a breakthrough with a win over the Lynx. They are playing some of their best basketball of the season but in this game they brought their A-game with little to no room for error. This was the last meeting in the regular season before going into the post-season where the Lynx are highly favored to walk away with the championship.

They have a solid starting roster and shoot equally well in the paint and from beyond the arc. They are a threat from anywhere on the court and the Aces need to get a quick start in this game. They will have their fan base behind them playing at T-Mobile Arena.

The Las Vegas Aces will remain at home taking on the Chicago Sky this Sunday at T-Mobile Arena. Tipoff for this game is scheduled for 6:00 PM.

Valkyries reached for the Sky and won, 83-78; moved up above .500

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Chicago Sky’s Angel Reese looks to shoot the ball against Golden State Valkyries’ Monique Billings in the third quarter in San Francisco on Friday, June 27, 2025. (Shae Hammond/Bay Area News Group)

By Michael Roberson

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — The Golden State Valkyries (8-7) have a winning record after 15 games of their inaugural season, by scaling the Chicago Sky (4-11), 83-78, on a beautiful Friday Night in the City by the Bay.

The Valkyries got the evening off to a good start on two converted free throws by Kayla Thornton. However, the Sky went on a 5-0 run to take the steam out of the ninth sellout crowd in the friendly confines of the Chase Center. Golden State also had their own 6-0 run, and led by as many as 5 points in the first 10-minute block.

The initial quarter had three lead changes and two ties. A competitive beginning of the contest that continued throughout the game. After the first segment of the W battle, both teams had a player leading the way with 9 points.

Kayla Thornton parlayed that scoring effort into a career high (29) campaign, while Kia Nurse made three bombs from beyond the arc to tally her point-production. The Sky led by two after the whistle, 22-20. The unintentional polarizing Angel Reese managed to get a flagrant foul late in the quarter, but did not ruin the rest of her game.

In the second quarter, Golden State managed to lead by as high as nine points, but it still was a back and forth entanglement. By the time the first half buzzer went off, the Valkyries held a five-point lead, 39-34.

At recess, both teams only had one player in the double-figures plateau. They would be the aforementioned Thornton (15) and Nurse (12), with four 3s to her credit.

In the third quarter, it was more of lead exchange and multiple ties. Golden State went up by five, and Chicago led by three. Reece reached 10 rebounds, but was still in single-digits (5) in her point production. After 75% of the game was over, the Valkyries led by two, 56-54. There were six lead changes and six ties at that stage of the game.

In the final 10-minute time block of regulation, Golden State pushed it to a nine-point advantage, while Chicago got up by four. However, late in the quarter, the Valkyries went on a devastating 12-0 run, which cemented the win. In the interim, Reese added 8 rebounds and 12 points to her total, reaching another of her frequent double-doubles.

After 40 minutes of WNBA play in the San Francisco Bay, the home team won by five, 83-78. The latest expansion team put themselves back in a winning way, by games and percentages.

Golden State presented four players with 10+ points in their eighth victory of their first season. Thornton led the way with 29 points and six rebounds. The other three contributors were. Tiffany Hayes (13), Kate Martin (11) and Kaitlin Chen (10).

Chicago was led by Ariel Atkins with 20 points, Nurse with 17 (5 – 3s) and Reese with her double double of 17 points and 18 rebounds.

The Valkyries are next in action Sunday, June 29, hosting the Seattle Storm at 5:30 PM PT, on KMAX/KPIX+. The Sky head down to Southern California to take on the Los Angeles Sparks, on the same date, at 3:00 PM CT and 1:00PM PT on ESPN.

Aces Win Third In a Row Beating Chicago Sky 90-71

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Las Vegas Aces Center A’ja Wilson (22) takes a shot while getting fouled by the Chicago Sky’s Kamilla Cardoso (10) in second half action at T Mobile Center in Las Vegas on Tue Sep 3, 2024 (AP News photo)

By Barbara Mason

The Las Vegas Aces (21-12) won their third game in a row beating the Chicago Sky (11-22) 90-71 Tuesday night at T Mobile Center. The Aces won the second quarter 30-18 but barely squeaked by in the third and fourth quarters.

The Aces actually won every quarter in this game. A’Ja Wilson booked another double double with 30 points and 14 rebounds. The Aces are really in playoff mode right now but face upcoming games this weekend against the two best teams in the WNBA. They will take on the Connecticut Sun Friday and on Sunday they will face the New York Liberty with both games on the road.

Game recap: The Aces were off to the races in the first half of play. They won the opening quarter 17-13 and continued to push the lead leading at the half 47-31. They had won the second quarter convincingly 30-18.

After three quarters, the Aces continued to lead 68-51. The finish of the third quarter was wild with some untimely turnovers and fouls by Chicago. Las Vegas took the 17 point lead into the fourth quarter, ten minutes away from their third win in a row.

After the first three quarters the ever consistent A’Ja Wilson already had a double double with 15 points and 12 rebounds. She has put her team in playoff contention and she needs her team to respond as she has and tonight that is exactly what they did.

With 3:41, the Sky had pulled to within ten points pushing the Aces to their limits. With under three minutes left in the game, the Aces had pushed their lead back out to 14 points, 82-68.

With the Sky trailing by a significant margin and time running out, they were forced to take shots they might normally not take. Chicago suffered turnovers that totaled 13 to the Aces 5. Las Vegas had outplayed them in the fourth winning this game 90-71.

The Aces are really zoned into playoff mode; they have a real playoff vibe lately as this season begins to wind down. They are really starting to click and that will be put to the test on this upcoming road trip.

They will be challenged in their next two road games taking on the first and second ranked teams; the Connecticut Sun and the leagues’ number one New York Liberty. They are stringing wins together now showing some greatly improved effort and they will be ready for this challenge.

A’Ja Wilson finished this game with another double double with 30 points and 14 rebounds. Tiffany Hayes had 20 points and Jackie Young chipped in 15 with six rebounds. Angel Reese had a double double for the Sky with 12 points and 16 rebounds.

Game notes: Tuesday night the Aces were back at home in Las Vegas taking on the Sky with tipoff taking place at T-Mobile Arena a change in venue to accommodate the multitude of fans wishing to take in the game.

The growing popularity of women’s basketball across the nation has forced other teams to also find larger venues. Tuesday night the Aces extended their two-game winning streak to three. The Aces seems to be peaking at just the right time and despite the fact that Kelsey Plum was out for Tuesday night’s game this team was focused and on course, and was poised to win.

Friday the Aces will travel to Connecticut to take on league’s #2 overall the Sun. The Sun fell to the Storm Tuesday afternoon and they were at Mohegan Sun Arena the Suns’ home court so they will be looking to get back on track while the Aces will be looking for a fourth win in a row. Tipoff for that game is scheduled for 4:30 PM.

Aces Slow Start Spearheads Loss to Chicago Sky 93-85

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

The Chicago Sky’s forward Michaela Onyenwere (12) defends against the Las Vegas Aces guard Chelsea Gray (12) at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas on Tue Jul 16, 2024 (Las Vegas Aces photo)

By Barbara Mason

Las Vegas Aces (16-7) struggled through the first quarter trailing by 19 points after the first 12 minutes. They continued to challenge throughout the game getting close but never led once. It was a real battle in the fourth quarter with the Aces getting as close as a single point but they were unable to get on top.

The Chicago Sky (9-14) won the game 93-85. A’Ja Wilson fought through this game finishing with a double double, 28 points and 14 rebounds but the Aces came up just short despite her effort.

Game recap: The first quarter of this game was all Sky. They came out hard and fast and when the clock wound down on the first 12 minutes of this game, Chicago had taken a 25-12 lead and the Aces had some work to do in the second quarter.

The Sky had so far controlled the pace of this game and Las Vegas had to do a better job containing Chennedy Carter who already had scored 14 points. Chicago owned the shots from the field, from downtown and was out-rebounding the Aces 14 to 9.

Poor shooting was killing Las Vegas through the first half of the second quarter. With 4:50 left in the half, the Sky had taken a 40-21 lead. The Aces could not buy a long ball and Chicago was shooting at 44.4 % from downtown while Las Vegas was struggling only hitting 14.3 %.

They were getting shellacked. The Aces have not struggled like this at home all season. As the half came to an end, the Aces turned this game completely around after trailing by as much as 19.

Chicago continued to lead at the half but their lead had been cut to 44-37 as the Aces pushed back with ferocity. Las Vegas had a horrible start to this game but they were back on track going into the second half.

The Sky pushed their lead back to ten points 60-50 six minutes into the third quarter. Kelsey Plum continued to struggle only hitting two points for the entire game. The Sky had established a 12 point lead for much of the quarter and after three quarters, they continued to lead 69-63 and the Aces had one quarter left in this game to right the ship. Known for turning games around in the fourth quarter, they would have to show up in this one if they had any chance to win the game.

Las Vegas did indeed challenge in the fourth quarter trailing by a single point 73-72 with over seven minutes left in the game. Tiffany Hayes was having a great game off the bench hitting 14 points through three quarters and A’Ja Wilson already had another double double with 28 points and 10 rebounds.

With 7:15 left on the clock, the Sky were forced to take a full timeout and attempt to re-group as the Aces continued to forge a comeback. With 4:54 left in the game it continued to be a one-point game 75-74 with the Sky leading.

At 3:52, Las Vegas had at long last tied up this game at 77. The Aces had been unable to take the lead throughout the game as the Sky punched back taking an 88-81 lead with 1:32 left in the game and the Aces were running out of time.

Chicago had proven to be a most worthy opponent beating the defending champions 93-85. This was the Sky’s first win over Las Vegas in two years and they did in style.

The Aces were challenged the entire game by Chennedy Carter unable to contain herself and she finished with the game high 34 points. She led the way in this Chicago win. The slow start for Las Vegas was the determining factor and they never really recovered.

Game notes: Tuesday night the Aces took on the Sky at Michelob ULTRA Arena. Las Vegas ended their winning streak at four with the loss to the Sky. With the loss they fall a half game back behind first place Seattle in the Western Conference .

The Sky have come a long way since earlier in the season when they struggled with a .500 record at 6-6 record. The Sky have struggled at times this season but this not a team that you can take at all lightly as the Aces found out. They gave the Aces a run for their money despite being on the road.

A’Ja Wilson finished this game with a double double, 28 points and 14 rebounds. Jackie Young had 17 points but Kelsey Plum struggled through the game with only two points at the half and eight points for the game. Tiffany Hayes had a nice game off the bench with 19 points.

The Aces will continue their season on Saturday August 17 taking on the New York Liberty with tipoff scheduled for 1:00 PM.

Aces Win Third Game In a Row Beating Chicago Sky 95-83

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson (22) and guard Tiffany Hayes (15) celebrate after scoring during the first half of a WNBA basketball game against the Minnesota Lynx at Michelob ULTRA Arena on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. The Aces defeated the Chicago Sky on Thu Jun 27, 2024 at Wintrust Arena in Chicago. (Ellen Schmidt/Las Vegas Review-Journal)

By Barbara Mason

Ever since the return of Chelsea Gray, the Las Vegas Aces (9-6) have won three games in a row including Thursday night’s win over the Chicago Sky (6-10) 95-83.. They have a nicely balanced offense now. A’ja Wilson had another huge game with 31 points and Jackie Young finished with 22 points. Kelsey Plum had a 21 point game. Wilson had 15 points in the opening quarter, Young had 12 points in the third quarter and Plum had 17 in the fourth quarter as they took turns standing out in an impressive win.

Game recap: The Sky came out fast winning the first quarter 25-21. A’ja Wilson had an outstanding first quarter with 15 points keeping her team close in the first 12 minutes waiting for the rest of the team to catch up. The Aces did indeed catch up coming right back punishing Chicago in the second quarter 25-14. At the half Las Vegas had a 46-39 lead.

The Aces extended their lead in the third quarter leading 72-63 with a single quarter left in the game. Las Vegas continued to pile on the points and at 7:40 left in the game had a 82-65 lead, their largest lead of the game.

Chicago continued to fight back but they were running out of clock with under six minutes left to play. Jackie Young, Kelsey Plum and Chelsea Gray joined Wilson in a solid second half. Jackie Young had 12 points in the third quarter as the Las Vegas starters showed up big time in the final two quarters.

The Sky cut into the Aces lead with 4:22 left in the game. What had once been a 17 point lead was now an 88-78 Las Vegas advantage. The Aces had to tighten up offensively and Kelsey Plum was the answer with 16 points in the final quarter with under three minutes left in the game. The Sky fought hard but came up short after a nice rally and Las Vegas had won their third game in a row 95-83 snapping Chicago’s two game win streak.

All night long it was a battle between the Aces A’ja Wilson and the Sky’s Angel Reese. Reese finished with a double double, 18 points and 11 rebounds. In the end it was Wilson who won the challenge.

Game notes: Thursday night, the Aces took on the Sky at Wintrust Arena in Chicago and picked up their third straight win. Since the return of Chelsea Gray this team has been firing on all cylinders, with a balanced offense and defense having won three straight games. They got their third win in a row in Thursday night and the Aces are currently holding down fifth place in the overall standings and third place in the Western Conference.

Saturday afternoon, the Aces will take on the 4-13 Washington Mystics at Entertainment & Sports Arena looking to add to their string of wins. Tipoff for this game is scheduled for 11:00 AM.

WNBA podcast with Michael Roberson: With Clark face of the league race is a forefront discussion

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever scored 20 points and turned the ball over 10 times against the Connecticut Sun in Clark’s WNBA debut at Uncasville CT on Tue May 14, 2024

WNBA podcast with Michael Roberson:

#1 The signing of Caitlin Clark with the Indiana Fever has raised the subject of race in the WNBA. Clark is the face of the WNBA since she singed. The Las Vegas Aces star player A’ja Wilson said people say it’s not about race, but Wilson insists, it is about race and Wilson said if your a top notch black woman player “maybe that’s something people don’t want to see.”

#2 Wilson added saying no matter how hard she works at it people don’t see the black or minority player as marketable and Wilson said that minority players are still being swept under the rug.

#3 Clark was raising TV ratings when she help lead the Iowa Hawkeyes to back to back championships and the networks and the NCAA and the press who covered her realized that she was the perfect marketing tool. It’s along the lines what Wilson was talking about who wants to listen to a black female player endorsing when they will listen to Caitlin Clark.

#4 Clark matched up against LSU Tigers star Angel Reese who now play for the Chicago Sky. There were discussions that the treatment for Clark a white woman and from the “Heartland of America” compared to Reese and other black players. Michael during that Final Four between Iowa and LSU talk about the differences that you’ve pointed out that was going on at the time between Reese and Clark?

#5 Clark got a deal from Nike for $28 million in endorsements for over eight years it is the largest endorsement contract in women’s basketball. Victoria Jackson a sports historian at Arizona State University said the reason for Clark’s huge contract is a break off into a completely different stratosphere. That anything involving Clark is being questioned.

Michael Roberson covers Stanford Cardinal basketball for http://www.sportsradioservice.com and is a writer for the African American Athlete.