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Tuesday night clearly demonstrated that the WNBA has significantly improved as a whole and is no longer dominated by a single team. Over the past two seasons, the Las Vegas Aces have reigned supreme, securing back-to-back championships. Some might argue that the Aces' recent struggles are due to missing a key player and an unsettled starting lineup. But is that the real issue?
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Certainly, losing a player like Chelsea Gray is a major setback for any team. However, the crux of the Aces' problems this season seems to be their defense. Despite their offensive efforts, they are conceding 85 points per game, tying them for the third-worst defense in the league.
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A’ja Wilson remains a standout performer, continuing her dominant season with 28 points and 8 rebounds in their 100-86 home loss to the Minnesota Lynx, a game that dropped them to 1-3 in the Commissioners Cup. Kelsey Plum struggled from the field but contributed 13 points, while Megan Gustafson and Tiffany Hayes added 11 and 10 points off the bench, respectively.
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The Lynx, on the other hand, had a stellar night from beyond the arc, hitting 15 of 27 three-pointers (55.6%) and shooting 55.2% overall from the field. This marked the fourth highest shooting percentage in the league this year and the highest by an Aces opponent since New York's 57.5% shooting on July 6, 2022. Former Ace Kayla McBride excelled against her old team, scoring 18 points, grabbing 8 rebounds, and providing 4 assists while making 2 of 3 from three-point range. All five Lynx starters scored in double figures.
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Ultimately, the Aces appeared frustrated and disorganized against a Minnesota team that played with determination and no excuses, dominating from the start. The WNBA's overall competitiveness has increased, with even the lower-tier teams showing improvement. The Las Vegas Aces are no longer the unbeatable force they once were. This season might be Becky Hammon’s toughest yet, potentially showcasing her best coaching work. Although the season is far from over, the Aces' 1-4 record in their last five games poses a significant challenge. How will they turn it around?
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