¡Aces dominate! They conquer their third WNBA title in 4 years

The Las Vegas Aces are crowned WNBA champions for the third time in four years! In a dominant display, the team defeated the Phoenix Mercury with a score of 97-86, securing their place as the reigning dynasty in the league. This triumph marks the culmination of a four-game sweep in the Finals, the first in WNBA history in a best-of-seven format.

A’ja Wilson, the Shining Star

The Aces superstar and four-time league MVP, A’ja Wilson, led the way in Game 4, accumulating 31 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks. Her performance earned her the Finals MVP award, after averaging 28.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2 blocks during the series.

She is unique, she is alone on Everest.

Becky Hammon, Aces coach

Wilson celebrated the victory with a touch of joy, bringing a pink tambourine to the post-game press conference.

This is the symbol of the joy we feel now.

A’ja Wilson

Coach Becky Hammon, who played in the WNBA from 1999 to 2014, highlighted the evolution of the game and the skill level of current players, comparing it to past dynasties. The Aces’ season wasn’t easy. After a shaky start, including a 53-point loss, the team managed a 16-game winning streak to secure the second seed in the playoffs. Despite the challenges in the previous rounds, the Aces demonstrated their dominance in the Finals.

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

Becky Hammon

Chelsea Gray, the Aces’ point guard, emphasized the team’s confidence despite initial doubts. The Phoenix Mercury reached the Finals with momentum, but the Aces neutralized it. After a close win in the first game and a comfortable triumph in the second, A’ja Wilson sealed the third game with a basket in the last second.

In Game 4, the Aces were never behind, leading by 16 points at halftime. Despite the ejection of Phoenix coach Nate Tibbetts, and the late reaction from the Mercury, the Aces maintained their lead to secure the championship. Gray and Jackie Young each contributed 18 points, with a combined 12 assists. Jewell Loyd and Dana Evans added 22 points off the bench. With Wilson and Young still at their best, the Aces have the potential to join the exclusive group of teams with four WNBA titles. However, the team’s future could depend on free agency and collective bargaining negotiations. The league and the players’ union must reach an agreement on a new collective bargaining agreement and carry out expansion drafts for Portland and Toronto, two new franchises in 2026. The league’s off-field issues led to boos towards commissioner Cathy Engelbert during the trophy presentation. Gray commented that it’s important to treat great players with respect. While the WNBA faces these challenges, the Aces celebrate their successful season.

Good things happen to the right people.

A’ja Wilson

Free agency and the WNBA’s labor issues will unfold in the coming months, while the Aces can reflect on their triumph.