The Las Vegas Aces’ WNBA Finals journey is reaching legendary status. With a nail-biting 82–80 victory in Game 3, the Aces have taken a commanding 3–0 lead over the Phoenix Mercury. One more win will crown them as three-time consecutive champions, a feat that hasn’t been achieved in more than two decades.
The Finals so far have showcased everything fans love about basketball: dramatic finishes, superstar performances, and relentless defence. Yet above all, the Aces’ resilience has defined this series, as they refuse to let the championship trophy slip away.
A’ja Wilson’s Game-Winning Moment
A’ja Wilson’s journey from college standout at South Carolina to the cornerstone of a WNBA dynasty has been remarkable. In Game 3, she once again lived up to her reputation as the league’s ultimate clutch player.
With the game tied and only 5.6 seconds left, Wilson received an inbound pass, created space with a deft spin, and hit the jumper that sealed the win. The arena went silent except for the roars of travelling Aces fans.
Wilson’s Game 3 stat line was spectacular:
- 28 points
- 12 rebounds
- 3 blocks
- Shooting efficiency: 10-of-18 from the field
Her ability to deliver in the clutch is reminiscent of legends like Lisa Leslie and Tamika Catchings, proving she belongs in conversations about the all-time greats.
Supporting Cast Stepping Up
Wilson may be the headliner, but the Aces are far from a one-woman show.
- Chelsea Grey, the “Point Gawd,” has orchestrated the offence brilliantly, logging 9 assists in Game 3 while scoring 15 points of her own. Her court vision and decision-making have kept the Mercury defence scrambling.
- Kelsey Plum provided instant offence from the perimeter, sinking three momentum-shifting three-pointers. Her fearless scoring keeps defenders honest and prevents double-teams on Wilson.
- Jackie Young, often underrated, delivered elite two-way play by scoring 14 points and holding Phoenix’s guards to poor shooting nights.
The combination of star power and depth is why Las Vegas is so dangerous. If one star has an off-night, another steps up without hesitation.
Defensive Intensity Defines the Series
The saying goes: offence wins games, but defence wins championships. For the Aces, that mantra has been on full display.
- They’ve forced the Mercury into an average of 16 turnovers per game in the Finals.
- Opponents are shooting just 41% from the field across the three games.
- Wilson’s rim protection, alongside Alysha Clark’s energy off the bench, has made paint scoring nearly impossible.
Phoenix thrives when its offence flows freely, but the Aces have clogged passing lanes, rotated efficiently, and punished every mistake. This defensive lockdown is why Las Vegas is not only winning but dictating the style of play.
Phoenix Mercury’s Missed Opportunities
For the Mercury, the series has been defined by heartbreaking near-misses.
Kahleah Copper has been brilliant, scoring 27 points in Game 3, but she lacked consistent help. Diana Taurasi, the Mercury’s veteran leader, has struggled to find rhythm against the Aces’ swarming defence. Brittney Griner’s scoring has been solid, but foul trouble has limited her impact late in Game 3.
The Mercury had chances to steal the game: a missed open three in the final minute, a botched fast-break opportunity, and two costly turnovers in the last 90 seconds. Against a championship team like Las Vegas, those mistakes are fatal.
Now, down 3–0, Phoenix faces an almost insurmountable challenge. No team in WNBA history has come back from such a deficit in the Finals.
Becky Hammon’s Coaching Brilliance
While players often get the spotlight, head coach Becky Hammon deserves immense credit for the Aces’ dominance.
Her defensive schemes have neutralised Phoenix’s strengths, while her offensive sets maximise Wilson’s versatility and Grey’s passing. Hammon’s ability to make adjustments mid-game—whether switching defensive matchups or designing plays for role players—has been key.
Hammon, already a trailblazer in women’s basketball and a pioneer in coaching, could soon be regarded as one of the best coaches in WNBA history if she secures this third straight title.
Historical Context—Aces and WNBA Dynasties
If the Aces complete the sweep, they will join rare company in WNBA history. Only the Houston Comets (1997–2000) have ever won more than two consecutive championships.
The Comets’ dynasty, led by Cynthia Cooper and Sheryl Swoopes, is etched in basketball lore. Now, the Aces have a chance to carve their own legacy.
Comparisons are already being made:
- The Comets dominated the league’s early years.
- The Minnesota Lynx (2011–2017) had four titles in seven years.
- The Aces could soon define the 2020s with back-to-back-to-back championships.
A dynasty is no longer a possibility for Las Vegas—it’s becoming a reality.
Aces’ Fanbase and Home-Court Advantage
The rise of the Las Vegas Aces has mirrored the growth of basketball in the city. Once primarily known for entertainment and boxing, Las Vegas is now home to passionate basketball fans.
Game 4 will be played at Michelob ULTRA Arena, where tickets sold out within hours. The home crowd has been instrumental all season, providing energy that fuels fast starts and big runs.
If the Aces clinch at home, it won’t just be another championship—it will be a citywide celebration that cements Las Vegas as one of the premier sports towns in America.
What Comes Next in Game 4
Game 4 is set to be a defining moment.
- For the Aces, it’s a chance to end the Finals with a sweep and enter the record books.
- For the Mercury, it’s about survival and pride. They must play their best basketball of the season to avoid elimination.
The pressure rests heavily on Phoenix. Expect them to come out aggressive, but the Aces have shown time and again that they thrive under pressure.
Conclusion – Aces’ Legacy in the Making
The Las Vegas Aces WNBA Finals run is about more than just another title—it’s about building a dynasty, shaping legacies, and redefining excellence in women’s sports.
A’ja Wilson’s game-winning shot in Game 3 wasn’t just a clutch basket; it was a symbol of the Aces’ willpower, confidence, and championship DNA. With Grey, Plum, and Young providing balance, and Hammon orchestrating from the sidelines, Las Vegas has become the gold standard in the WNBA.
If they win Game 4, the Aces won’t just be three-time champions—they’ll be remembered as one of the greatest dynasties in basketball history, inspiring future generations of athletes.
For now, Las Vegas sits on the brink of glory. And with one more win, their place in history will be undeniable.
