A’ja Wilson Powers Aces to Victory Over Sky, Extends Chicago’s Losing Streak

by: D’Joumbarey A. Moreau

LAS VEGAS — The Las Vegas Aces surged to their third straight win with a commanding 90-71 triumph over the Chicago Sky on Tuesday night at T-Mobile Arena. Despite the impressive performance, head coach Becky Hammon remains focused on the need for continued progress.

Hammon, while pleased with the team’s direction, expressed a measured optimism. “I think we’re trending in the right direction,” Hammon said after the game. “But I don’t know. Maybe it’s just my utter stubborn belief in these women. I just think we’re getting there, but I still know we got another gear.”

Leading the charge for the Aces was A’ja Wilson, who delivered a powerhouse performance with 30 points, 14 rebounds, and three blocks. This game marked her third in the last four where she’s scored at least 30 points, a feat that has made her the WNBA’s all-time leader in games with 30 points and 10 rebounds.

Chelsea Gray also made her mark, contributing a double-double with 13 points and 10 assists. Tiffany Hayes and Jackie Young added to the scoring, with Hayes netting 20 points and Young 15. Hayes stepped into the starting lineup to replace Kelsey Plum, who was sidelined with a right ankle injury.

For the Sky, Michaela Onyenwere led with 15 points, but the absence of their leading scorer, Chennedy Carter, was felt throughout the game.

In the matchup between Hammon and Sky coach Teresa Weatherspoon, longtime friends and former teammates, the Aces dominated early. The Sky briefly took the lead with a quick layup from rookie Kamilla Cardoso, but that was the last time they were ahead. Weatherspoon was forced to call timeouts as the Aces built a 13-6 lead and later a 6-0 run to start the second quarter. Despite a few turnovers and a brief third-quarter slump, the Aces managed to keep the Sky at bay with a solid performance.

Hammon’s focus on team chemistry and trust has been evident throughout the season. After a 6-6 start, Hammon acknowledged that the team was struggling to meet Wilson’s high standards. “I told them that I feel like a lot of our frustration comes from being average,” Hammon said. “And now we’re building up a track record of being there for each other, and that’s really what I want to build on. The basketball stuff will happen.” Tuesday’s game showcased the team’s growing cohesion, with Hayes making a significant impact off the bench and Wilson able to rest more during the game.

Plum’s absence was a precautionary move following an injury from a previous game. Hammon explained, “If I let her play, she probably would have played. Sometimes, you know, just like Jackie, you got to hold these players up and try to accumulate some energy and rest when we can.” This cautious approach underscores the team’s commitment to maintaining player health as they prepare for the playoffs.

With their recent victories, the Aces are building momentum and positioning themselves for a strong finish to the season.

Hammon, while pleased with the team’s direction, expressed a measured optimism. “I think we’re trending in the right direction,” Hammon said after the game. “But I don’t know. Maybe it’s just my utter stubborn belief in these women. I just think we’re getting there, but I still know we got another gear.”

Leading the charge for the Aces was A’ja Wilson, who delivered a powerhouse performance with 30 points, 14 rebounds, and three blocks. This game marked her third in the last four where she’s scored at least 30 points, a feat that has made her the WNBA’s all-time leader in games with 30 points and 10 rebounds.

Chelsea Gray also made her mark, contributing a double-double with 13 points and 10 assists. Tiffany Hayes and Jackie Young added to the scoring, with Hayes netting 20 points and Young 15. Hayes stepped into the starting lineup to replace Kelsey Plum, who was sidelined with a right ankle injury.

For the Sky, Michaela Onyenwere led with 15 points, but the absence of their leading scorer, Chennedy Carter, was felt throughout the game.

In the matchup between Hammon and Sky coach Teresa Weatherspoon, longtime friends and former teammates, the Aces dominated early. The Sky briefly took the lead with a quick layup from rookie Kamilla Cardoso, but that was the last time they were ahead. Weatherspoon was forced to call timeouts as the Aces built a 13-6 lead and later a 6-0 run to start the second quarter. Despite a few turnovers and a brief third-quarter slump, the Aces managed to keep the Sky at bay with a solid performance.

Hammon’s focus on team chemistry and trust has been evident throughout the season. After a 6-6 start, Hammon acknowledged that the team was struggling to meet Wilson’s high standards. “I told them that I feel like a lot of our frustration comes from being average,” Hammon said. “And now we’re building up a track record of being there for each other, and that’s really what I want to build on. The basketball stuff will happen.” Tuesday’s game showcased the team’s growing cohesion, with Hayes making a significant impact off the bench and Wilson able to rest more during the game.

Plum’s absence was a precautionary move following an injury from a previous game. Hammon explained, “If I let her play, she probably would have played. Sometimes, you know, just like Jackie, you got to hold these players up and try to accumulate some energy and rest when we can.” This cautious approach underscores the team’s commitment to maintaining player health as they prepare for the playoffs.

With their recent victories, the Aces are building momentum and positioning themselves for a strong finish to the season.