Jackie Young Shines with 32 Points: Aces Dominate Mercury in WNBA Finals

In an exciting WNBA Finals encounter, Jackie Young proved her worth by communicating to Aces coach Becky Hammon that she was ready to shine in the second game of the series. Despite the unusual schedule and not feeling completely fit after the first match, Young took on the challenge with determination. Young finished the game with 32 points, the most in the game, becoming the first Aces player to reach 30 points in a final. Las Vegas defeated Phoenix Mercury with a score of 91-78, solidifying their 2-0 lead in the series. Young’s 22-point increase from the first game is the fourth-highest in WNBA Finals history.

Jackie was unstoppable. It’s really difficult to defend her well when she makes several shots in a row. She is an exceptional player.
Becky Hammon

Less than 48 hours before the match, Hammon revealed that Young had felt fatigue in the first game, a result of the victory in the semi-finals. Young, after receiving intensive treatment and rest, arrived on Sunday completely ready. In the third quarter, Young scored 21 points, setting a new record in WNBA Finals history for a single quarter.

I’m very proud of Jackie. I know she has a lot of potential and I try to bring it out. It was incredible to see her play today.
A’ja Wilson

Wilson has been a constant support for Young, reminding her of her worth and encouraging her not to be affected by mistakes. Wilson’s presence has been a motivation for Young.

It’s a privilege to play with the best player in the world every day. She is the standard, and on this team, everyone wants to be.
Jackie Young

Wilson, for his part, scored 28 points, his best mark in the finals, and 14 rebounds. The combination of points from Wilson and Young (60) is the second highest for a duo in the history of the finals. Chelsea Gray also stood out, becoming the fourth player in WNBA Finals history with multiple games of 10 points and 10 assists.

How to describe Wilson, Young, and Gray? They are exceptional. That’s why expectations are so high, because they are them… that’s what makes this team so strong.
Becky Hammon

The Aces dominated the second quarter, fueled by a 14-2 run that gave them the lead. Las Vegas’ defense was key, limiting Phoenix to 24 points in the next two quarters, after allowing 27 in the first.

Once we managed to switch to defense, we became a different team.
Becky Hammon

Phoenix coach Nate Tibbetts noted that his team failed to capitalize on opportunities, allowing the Aces to take control of the game. With the series moving to Phoenix for the third game, the Aces are preparing to face a Mercury team that will seek a more intense performance to avoid falling behind 3-0.