A’ja Wilson Breaks WNBA Scoring Record as Aces Win 14th Straight Over Fever
By D’Joumbarey A. Moreau
INDIANAPOLIS — A’ja Wilson made WNBA history on Wednesday night, surpassing Jewell Loyd’s single-season scoring record as the Las Vegas Aces triumphed over the Indiana Fever 86-75. This victory extends the Aces’ winning streak against the Fever to 14 games.
Wilson entered the match just 11 points away from the record and achieved the milestone with a jumper from the free-throw line with 26.4 seconds left in the second quarter. She finished the game with 27 points and 12 rebounds, bringing her season total to 956 points. Wilson is now poised to become the first player in WNBA history to exceed 1,000 points in a single season.
Despite a strong push from Indiana, which narrowed the gap to 72-66, Wilson took charge in the closing moments. She scored eight consecutive points for Las Vegas, widening their lead to 80-71 with just over four minutes remaining. Alysha Clark’s clutch 3-pointer with 34.2 seconds left and Wilson’s key steal ensured the Aces’ victory.
Caitlin Clark of the Fever struggled from beyond the arc, making just 1 of 10 3-point attempts and finishing with 16 points on 6-of-22 shooting. Kelsey Mitchell led the Fever with 24 points, marking her third straight game with 20 or more points.
Caitlin Clark’s Reflections
After the game, Caitlin Clark reflected on her team’s performance and challenges. “It was a tough night shooting the ball,” Clark admitted. “We missed a lot of wide-open shots that have been falling for us recently. The physicality of the Aces was expected, but it’s tough when you’re not getting the calls you might expect.”
Clark also addressed the team’s discipline and adjustments needed for the next game: “We aimed to hold them under 84 points, and we held them to 86. We need to clean up some things and prepare better for Friday. We seemed a step slow on offense, and against a team like the Aces, we need to use screens better and stay disciplined.”
Kelsey Mitchell’s Insights
Kelsey Mitchell shared her thoughts on the game and the team’s approach moving forward: “We talked a lot pregame about treating these games like a mini playoff series,” Mitchell said. “As a leader, it’s about instilling confidence in our team, even after a tough loss. We need to stay positive and view these games as part of our growth.”
Mitchell noted the challenges faced during the game: “Even though we were always close, we needed to make a few more plays. We’ve learned a lot from playing the Aces and need to be more disciplined and aggressive, especially in key moments.”
Looking ahead, Mitchell emphasized the importance of preparation: “We need to focus on winning the 50-50 balls and executing our plays effectively. If we come out strong and stay focused, we can compete better on Friday.”
The Aces have now defeated the Fever in all three of their encounters this season. Indiana will have another chance to face Las Vegas when the teams meet again on Friday.
