Aces Conquer 3rd WNBA Title in 4 Years: Dynasty Consolidated

The Las Vegas Aces were crowned WNBA champions for the third time in four years! In a dominant display, they defeated the Phoenix Mercury with a final score of 97-86, solidifying their position as the reigning dynasty of the league. The Aces completed a four-game sweep in the WNBA Finals, the first in league history in a best-of-seven series format.

A’ja Wilson, the undisputed star

A’ja Wilson, the Aces superstar and four-time league MVP, led the way in Game 4, accumulating 31 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks, earning her the Finals MVP award. Across the series, she averaged 28.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2 blocks.

She is alone on Everest. There is no one around.

Becky Hammon, coach of the Aces

Wilson, with a touch of humor, brought a pink tambourine to the post-game press conference, shaking it to emphasize her answers. “This is the symbol of the joy we have now,” she declared, “and I am grateful.” Becky Hammon, who played in the WNBA from 1999 to 2014, stated that the Aces are already one of the biggest franchises in the league. She highlighted the evolution of the game, with bigger, stronger, faster, and more skilled players. She acknowledged that the dynasties of the past laid the foundation, but considers the current level to be incomparable. The Aces’ season was not an easy road. After a 53-point loss, the team achieved a 16-game winning streak that secured them the second place in the playoffs. They overcame challenging series before dominating the Finals.

I love being their coach. I love being their friend. Sometimes I push them a little, but I am invested in their greatness.

Becky Hammon, Aces coach

The Aces, after a difficult start, achieved a dominant streak in the Finals.

While the Aces were recovering, the Minnesota Lynx led the league. However, they were eliminated in the semifinals by Phoenix. The Mercury reached the Finals with momentum, but the Aces took control. After a close victory in the first game, they comfortably won the second and third with a game-winning shot by Wilson in the last second. In Game 4, the Aces were never behind, leading by 16 points at halftime. Phoenix coach Nate Tibbetts was ejected in the third quarter. Despite a Mercury comeback in the final quarter, the Aces held their lead and celebrated their third title.

Key Figures and Future Perspectives

Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young each contributed 18 points, combining for 12 assists. Jewell Loyd and Dana Evans scored 22 points off the bench.

I ended up in the promised land.

Jewell Loyd

The Aces, with Wilson and Young at their best, could aspire to join the select group of teams with four WNBA titles. However, free agency and negotiations over the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) raise questions about the team’s future. Almost all non-rookie contract players will be free agents for the 2026 season. The league’s off-field issues led to boos towards commissioner Cathy Engelbert during the trophy presentation. Gray commented that the players deserve to be treated with respect. While the WNBA faces its labor and free agency challenges, the Aces can reflect on their successful season.

Good things happen to the right people.

A’ja Wilson