The WNBA Finals are off to a fast and physical start, with the Las Vegas Aces taking a 2–0 series lead over the Phoenix Mercury. Both games have featured strong performances from each team’s stars, but the Aces’ depth and composure have set them apart heading into Game 3.
Game 1 Recap
The Aces edged out the Mercury 89–86 in Game 1 after Alyssa Thomas missed two consecutive free throws that would have given Phoenix a one-point lead with 24.6 seconds remaining.
It was a physical, back-and-forth battle, with Phoenix appearing in control for most of the game. The difference came down to turnovers — the Mercury committed 12 compared to the Aces’ 5.
Las Vegas got a huge boost off the bench from Dana Evans (21 points, 3 threes, 4 steals) and Jewell Loyd (18 points), while A’ja Wilson led the way with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists.
Phoenix had four players in double figures: Alyssa Thomas (15 points, 10 rebounds, 9 assists), Satou Sabally (19 points), Kahleah Copper (21 points), and Monique Akoa Makani (11 points).
Game 2 Recap
The Aces pulled away in the second quarter, outscoring the Mercury by 12 and never giving up the lead again. Las Vegas dominated statistically, finishing ahead in field goal percentage, three-point percentage, and total rebounds en route to a 91–78 win.
Jackie Young led the Aces with 32 points and 8 rebounds, while A’ja Wilson added 28 points and 14 rebounds. Jewell Loyd was a +21 in 30 minutes of action.
Phoenix struggled offensively, especially from deep, shooting just 17.9% (5-for-28) from three. Their bench contributed only 8 points total, connecting on just two field goals. Despite that, Satou Sabally and Kahleah Copper combined for 45 points to keep the Mercury within reach.
Looking Ahead To Game 3
Expect Phoenix to punch back in Game 3. They return home with their backs against the wall, desperate for better bench production, something that fueled their success earlier in the postseason against Minnesota.
As mentioned in prior articles, the Mercury are tough to beat when their big three, Thomas, Sabally, and Copper, are all rolling, but they’ll need consistent support from their role players to extend the series.
The Aces, meanwhile, look every bit the part of a championship-caliber team. While a sweep isn’t likely, Las Vegas clearly has the upper hand. At this point, it’s the Aces’ series to lose.
