The Las Vegas Aces dominated the WNBA Finals game against the Phoenix Mercury, securing a 97-86 victory and claiming their third championship in four seasons. A’ja Wilson led the charge with 31 points and nine rebounds, supported by Chelsea Gray, Jewell Loyd, and Dana Evans who contributed with a flurry of three-pointers in the second quarter.
Coach Becky Hammon praised the team’s elite performance, highlighting the balanced scoring effort with five players reaching double figures. Despite a challenging shooting night, Wilson’s exceptional free-throw shooting and leadership earned her the Finals MVP title. Gray’s crucial three-pointers in the fourth quarter thwarted a late rally by the Mercury.
The Aces showcased their offensive prowess throughout the series, averaging over 90 points per game and clinching the championship in a clean sweep. The team’s high-scoring first half set the tone for the decisive victory, maintaining a lead they never relinquished. Las Vegas fans celebrated the win, albeit with mixed reactions towards WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
Kahleah Copper led the Mercury with 30 points, while Alyssa Thomas displayed an impressive triple-double performance despite the team’s eventual defeat. Phoenix faced challenges, including coach Nate Tibbetts’ ejection and injuries to key players like Satou Sabally and Thomas, impacting their ability to keep pace with the dominant Aces.
The Aces’ relentless offensive display and defensive tenacity proved too much for the Mercury, who fell short in their quest for a fourth WNBA title. Despite a valiant playoff journey, Phoenix couldn’t contain Las Vegas’s firepower, ultimately succumbing to the Aces’ championship drive.
