Aces of Las Vegas: Third WNBA title in 4 years! A’ja MVP and Dynasty

The Las Vegas Aces Crowned WNBA Champions for the Third Time in Four Years

The Las Vegas Aces conquered their third WNBA championship in four years, after defeating the Phoenix Mercury with a final score of 97-86. This victory not only consolidates their dominant position in the league, but also marks the close of historic WNBA Finals, the first in a seven-game format. Aces star and four-time league MVP A’ja Wilson led the way in Game 4, culminating in 31 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks, earning her the Finals MVP award. Wilson averaged 28.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2 blocks during the Finals.

“She’s alone on Everest,” Aces coach Becky Hammon said, referring to Wilson. “There’s no one around.”

Becky Hammon

Coach Hammon, who played in the WNBA from 1999 to 2014, highlighted the growth of the game and the skill of current players, stating that the Aces are already one of the biggest franchises in the league. The Aces’ season was not a bed of roses. After a complicated start, with a .500 record in August, the team achieved a winning streak that led them to secure second place in the playoffs and, ultimately, to dominate the Finals.

“I love being their coach. I love being their friend. Sometimes I push them, but I am invested in their greatness,” said Hammon, who took over as Aces coach in 2022.

Becky Hammon

Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young also shone, scoring 18 points each and combining for 12 assists.

Caption: The Aces celebrated their championship after overcoming a complicated start to the season.While the Aces were solidifying their victory, the Phoenix Mercury, who had great momentum, couldn’t keep up. Phoenix coach Nate Tibbetts was ejected in the third quarter, which marked a turning point in the game. The Aces, with this triumph, have three titles, and with Wilson and Young, both still at their best, the team promises to remain a contender in the coming years. However, the future of the league and the Aces is at stake due to collective bargaining negotiations and league expansion. Most players who do not have a rookie contract will be free agents for the 2026 season. Off-court issues in the WNBA led to boos directed at commissioner Cathy Engelbert during the trophy presentation ceremony. Regarding the fans’ reaction, Gray commented: “We have great players. You need to treat them like that.” The WNBA’s labor challenges and free agency movement will unfold in the coming months. In the meantime, the Aces can reflect on all they achieved this season.

“Good things happen to the right people,” Wilson said.

A’ja Wilson