Las Vegas Aces

SOURCE SPORTS: Liberty Clinch WNBA Finals Spot with 76-62 Win Over Aces

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Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images

The New York Liberty secured their place in the 2024 WNBA Finals with a 76-62 victory over the Las Vegas Aces, winning the series 3-1. Sabrina Ionescu, bouncing back from a career-low four points in Game 3, led the way with 22 points and five 3-pointers in the series-clinching win. Breanna Stewart filled the stat sheet for New York with 19 points, 14 rebounds, five assists, and four blocks, while Jonquel Jones added 14 points. Rookie Leonie Fiebich contributed 11 points and seven rebounds, finishing as a plus-28 in 28 minutes.

The Aces, aiming for a historic three-peat, saw their 12-game home playoff win streak snapped. Despite the loss, unanimous MVP A’ja Wilson delivered a strong performance, leading the Aces with 19 points, ten rebounds, and five blocks.

With the win, the Liberty return to the WNBA Finals for the second straight year and sixth time in franchise history, now just three wins away from their first-ever WNBA championship. As the No. 1 seed, they will host Game 1 of the Finals on Thursday at Barclays Center in Brooklyn (8 PM ET, ESPN).

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SOURCE SPORTS: Liberty Hold Off Aces to Take 2-0 Lead in Semifinals

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The New York Liberty held off the defending champion Las Vegas Aces, 88-84, to take a commanding 2-0 lead in their best-of-five semifinal series. Sabrina Ionescu led the charge with 24 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, scoring seven of New York’s final nine points in the last two minutes to secure the win.

The Liberty’s balanced effort saw contributions from Breanna Stewart (15 points, seven rebounds, eight assists), Jonquel Jones (14 points, eight rebounds), and Courtney Vandersloot (12 points, four rebounds), who combined for 41 points.

New York improved to 6-1 in games decided by five points or less this season, including the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Aces fell to 5-6 in such close contests.

History favors the Liberty, as teams that have taken a 2-0 lead in a best-of-five WNBA Playoff series are 18-0 all-time. The Aces now face elimination for the first time since 2021. A’ja Wilson, who scored 18 of her 24 points in the second half, will lead Las Vegas in a must-win Game 3. Since Wilson’s WNBA debut in 2018, the Aces are 5-3 when facing elimination.

Game 3 is a high-stakes battle, with the Liberty looking to advance to the Finals and the Aces fighting to keep their title defense alive.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Liberty Beat Aces to Claim Game 1 of WNBA Semifinal Series

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Evan Yu/NBAE via Getty Images

The New York Liberty made a statement in Game 1 of the 2024 WNBA Semifinals, defeating the defending champion Las Vegas Aces 87-77 at home on Sunday. Nearly a year after the Aces ended the Liberty’s season by clinching back-to-back titles in the 2023 Finals, New York came out determined, led by stellar performances from Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and Jonquel Jones.

Stewart, who finished with 34 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two steals, was unstoppable from the start, putting up 20 points by halftime. “I wanted to come out and set the tone, be aggressive, and take what the defense was giving me,” Stewart said after the game. Her offensive dominance helped New York build an early double-digit lead, and they never looked back.

Ionescu added 21 points and five assists, while Jones contributed a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds, solidifying New York’s advantage over the Aces.

Reflecting on last year’s Finals loss, Stewart noted her growth since that defeat. “I’ve just kind of grown from it, had a lot of time to reflect on it—how I can be better, how to handle things collectively better. I don’t forget who I am and what I can do.”

The Liberty holds a 1-0 series lead as they aim to dethrone the Aces and move closer to their first WNBA Championship. Game 2 of the Semifinals is set for later this week in New York.

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WATCH: Spike Lee and LV Aces Guard Kelsey Plum Trash Talk During WNBA Semis

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Spike Lee is the First Black Prez on Cannes Film Festival Jury

Spike Lee is the First Black Prez on Cannes Film Festival Jury
Photo by James Gourley/REX/Shutterstock

There is no bigger New York sports fan than Spike Lee. As the New York Liberty got their semifinal series underway with the Las Vegas Aces, a rematch of last year’s WNBA Finals, Lee exchanged words with Kelsey Plum.

Cameras picked up Lee and Plum exchanging words while the Liberty were up 14. And boy, Plum looks HEATED. Liberty won game 1 87-77, and Plum scored 24 points. You can see the moment below.

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Nika Muhl and Jewell Lloyd Turn Heads with Stylish Tunnel Walk Ahead of Aces vs. Storm Game

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Nika Muhl and Jewell Lloyd Turn Heads with Stylish Tunnel Walk Ahead of Aces vs. Storm Game

Before Tuesday’s WNBA matchup between the Las Vegas Aces and the Seattle Storm, Nika Muhl and Jewell Lloyd made a fashion statement with a one-of-a-kind look styled by athlete stylist Brittany Hampton. The duo, challenged by smartwater to craft an eye-catching outfit, showcased their personal styles with smartwater as the perfect game-day accessory.

smartwater, a brand representing forward movement, continues to make waves at the intersection of sports, style, and culture. Just last week, Aces guard Kelsey Plum participated in the activation with her own distinctive look, reinforcing the brand’s presence in the fashion-forward sports scene.

The post Nika Muhl and Jewell Lloyd Turn Heads with Stylish Tunnel Walk Ahead of Aces vs. Storm Game first appeared on The Source.

The post Nika Muhl and Jewell Lloyd Turn Heads with Stylish Tunnel Walk Ahead of Aces vs. Storm Game appeared first on The Source.

A’ja Wilson Roasts Teammates For Wanting Photos With Usher After Loss

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Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson poked fun at her teammates for wanting photos with Usher after an upset loss to the Chicago Sky. Usher set up shop in Vegas for two and a half years. His residency reportedly netted him over $1 million per show. The shows were star-studded affairs. Celebrities from Kim Kardashian to Keke Palmer made the trip to see the R&B legend live. Wilson, the two-time WNBA MVP and two-time champion, hoped to see Usher at the parade after the team won their first title in 2022. It did not happen. After two years, Usher finally made it to an Aces game.

Unfortunately, it was not to see an Aces win. The Sky stunned Vegas on their home court, winning 93-85 behind 34 points from Chennedy Carter and another double-double for rookie Angel Reese. After the game, a live mic picked up Wilson’s remarks. “They ain’t did sh*t all day, but they want to take a motherf**king picture with Usher,” she said to teammate Sydney Colson.

A’ja Wilson Roasts Teammates For Wanting Photos With Usher

At the end of the clip, A’ja Wilson also hugged Usher. She gave him a jersey and finally got the picture she hoped for two years ago. The Aces are one of the best teams in the WNBA, so one loss won’t get them down. Based on their social media antics, morale is high in the Vegas locker room. They can threepeat. If they do, they’d join the Houston Comets as the only teams in WNBA history to win three consecutive championships.

As for Wilson individually, she has had a great year. She’s getting her own signature sneaker with Nike, which is releasing in 2025. Wilson is also playing career-best basketball. She’s been the favorite for both Most Valuable Player and Defensive Player of the Year since the season started. In nine days, she will have the chance to add a second Olympic gold medal to a growing trophy case. After a rocky start, the Aces are 10-2 in their last 12 games and do not look like they’re slowing down any time soon. Now, they can also say they got their long-awaited photos with Usher.

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Las Vegas Aces Star A’ja Wilson Was Hilariously Eager To Name Beyoncé As The Artist She Wants To Do A Vegas Residency

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Las Vegas isn’t just where artists go to do long-term residencies when they need a break from touring. It’s also the home of several sports teams, including the WNBA’s Aces, who played the Indiana Fever on ESPN last night. Naturally, ESPN anchor Michael Eaves asked the Aces star forward A’ja Wilson after the game if there were any artists she wanted to see perform a residency in Vegas. The WNBA’s best player didn’t even let Eaves get the question out before responding with a relatable, one-word answer: Beyoncé.

“She doesn’t even have to come here for a residency,” she conceded. “She could just come to a game and just say ‘what’s up’ to us, and we’re fine, ’cause I know she got other stuff to do. Beyoncé, girl…”

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With the WNBA increasing in popularity lately, it doesn’t sound like a pipe dream (I, personally, am disappointed that Bey hasn’t hit up a game yet, though — maybe she was waiting for the Houston Comets to come back). The Chicago Sky’s rookie forward Angel Reese recently joined Megan Thee Stallion on stage during her tour stop in the Windy City, and the Phoenix Mercury duo of Brittney Griner and Natasha Cloud got Meg’s attention to invite her to a game when her tour reached the Valley of the Sun. Additionally, the W has been making in-roads into the world of music, tapping Kehlani to perform at last year’s All-Star Game and to narrate the launch video for the expansion team, the Golden State Valkyries. If Beyoncé does give the league a co-sign, its skyrocketing popularity would be supercharged, for sure.

Kelsey Plum Net Worth 2024: What Is The NBA Star Worth?

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Kelsey Plum, a dynamic force in the WNBA, has rapidly ascended as one of the top players in women’s basketball. Her record-breaking collegiate career set the stage for her success in the professional league. Known for her scoring prowess and leadership skills, Plum’s impact on the court has been significant. As of 2024, her achievements in basketball, along with endorsements and off-court ventures, have contributed to a net worth of $5 million, according to Fresherslive. This figure signifies her financial accomplishments and underscores her growing influence in the sport.

Career Highlights: A Journey Of Records & Accolades

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 28: Kelsey Plum #10 of the Las Vegas Aces. Warms up prior to a game against the New York Liberty at Barclays Center on August 28, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Michelle Farsi/Getty Images)

Impressive feats and milestones mark Plum’s basketball journey. She set the NCAA record for most points scored in a single season at the University of Washington. She finished her college career as the all-time leading scorer in NCAA women’s basketball history. Further, her transition to the WNBA was seamless, with Plum quickly establishing herself as a key player. Her contributions have been instrumental in her team’s performances, showcasing her ability to excel under pressure and her dedication to the game.

Beyond The Court: Advocacy & Interests

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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JUNE 17: WNBA player Kelsey Plum (L) of the Las Vegas Aces and tight end Darren Waller of the Las Vegas Raiders. Attend the inaugural IX Awards at Allegiant Stadium on June 17, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The IXs, presented by the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces, celebrate the 50th anniversary of the passage of Title IX. Recognize women and men who have fought for equality in sports and beyond. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

In addition to her on-court achievements, Plum’s life off the court is characterized by her interests and advocacy work. Her involvement in initiatives that promote women’s sports and her support for various causes highlight her commitment to using her platform for positive change. Plum’s personal life includes her experiences and passions outside of basketball. It adds depth to her public persona, resonating with fans and young athletes who look up to her.

Impact & Legacy: A New Chapter In Women’s Basketball

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TOKYO, JAPAN – JULY 28: Stefanie Dolson, Jacquelyn Young, Kelsey Plum and Allisha Gray. Of Team United States pose for a portrait after winning the gold medal in the 3×3 Basketball competition. On day five of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Aomi Urban Sports Park on July 28, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Reflecting on Kelsey’s net worth, her career is emblematic of a new era in women’s basketball. Her achievements are about personal accolades and inspiring and paving the way for future generations in the sport. Her record-setting performances shape plum’s legacy in basketball, her leadership on and off the court, and her role as an advocate for the advancement of women in sports.

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Usher Invites Las Vegas Aces To Residency Show After Missing Championship Parade

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Usher has extended an invite to the Las Vegas Aces to attended his “My Way” residency show. “I wish I could’ve been there, but pull up to my show… I got U. Shoutout to the defending champs, the Vegas Aces. A’ja Wilson, I got your message, I see you, I hear you. Couldn’t be at the parade but wanted to send this out to you to say congratulations to you and all the lovely ladies that once again did it again. I wanted to invite you to come see the show, come see me do it my way here in Vegas. We stick together, we love one another. Congratulations on this day and I’ll see you soon,” the musician said in a video posted to social media. While Usher was unable to attend the Aces’ parade after defending their WNBA title, 2 Chainz was on hand to perform.

However, Usher’s offer led to a little bit of friendly beefing amongst the team. “A’ja hit us in the group chat talkin bout WE are invited to go see Usher, but now that I’m seeing the video…SHE was invited. Which is cool, that’s fine! But why lie to ur teammates? 💔,” Sydney Colson wrote on X. “Lolololololololol syd scores 2 points in game 4 and think she can get usher tickets awww,” Wilson shot back.

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Aces Become First Repeat Champs In 21 Years

Last week, the Aces made history. With a 70-69 road victory, the Las Vegas Aces secured their second WNBA title in as many seasons. After a double-digit loss in Game 3, the Aces bounced back to take a one-point win in front of a hostile and sold-out New York home crowd. A’ja Wilson had a game-high 24 points as injuries to key starters limited the Aces’ dominance but did not relegate them to silver scrapes. With the win, the Aces became the first team since the 2002 Los Angeles Sparks to win back-to-back titles. They were also the first defending champions to even make the Finals since the Sparks in 2017.

“This one’s sweeter. It just is. It’s harder to do,” head coach Becky Hammon said after the game. “This is what it’s all about, to have your name etched in history right now with other teams. We never gave up, and this is a moment that we need to celebrate. This is a moment that not a lot of people get a chance to do it, and for us to do it shorthanded, it is truly amazing. It just makes winning that much better,” Wilson, who was named Finals MVP, added.

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Las Vegas Aces Win WNBA Title, First Back-To-Back Champions In 21 Years

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With a 70-69 road victory, the Las Vegas Aces secured their second WNBA title in as many seasons. After a double-digit loss in Game 3, the Aces bounced back to take a one-point win in front of a hostile and sold-out New York home crowd. A’ja Wilson had a game-high 24 points as injuries to key starters limited the Aces’ dominance but did not relegate them to silver scrapes. With the win, the Aces became the first team since the 2002 Los Angeles Sparks to win back-to-back titles. They were also the first defending champions to even make the Finals since the Sparks in 2017.

“This one’s sweeter. It just is. It’s harder to do,” head coach Becky Hammon said after the game. “This is what it’s all about, to have your name etched in history right now with other teams. We never gave up, and this is a moment that we need to celebrate. This is a moment that not a lot of people get a chance to do it, and for us to do it shorthanded, it is truly amazing. It just makes winning that much better,” Wilson, who was named Finals MVP, added.

Read More: Cardi B Blown Away By WNBA Mascot’s “Bongos” Challenge Video

Aces Solidify Their Dynasty

The Aces became just the third franchise in league history to win back-to-back titles. What’s more, they did over the one team that was seen as having the ability to stop them. The New York Liberty went all-in in the offseason, amassing talent to build a 2023 superteam that broke the scales of the league. Betting markers weren’t for individual teams – it was Aces/Liberty or literally any other team in the league for champion odds.

But come the best-of-five finals, they Aces showed up the Liberty at every turn. They raced out to a 2-0 lead, including a 28-point blowout in Game 2. The Liberty hit back on their homecourt in Game 3 as the Aces lost key players in Kiah Stokes and Chelsea Gray to injury. Veteran Candance Parker was already out with an injury. And yet, the Aces persevered. After the Liberty dropped 23 in the first quarter, they didn’t surpass 18 points in a quarter for the rest of the game. It was a tough-fought win, but it was a win all the same. Now the Aces can turn to the much-vaunted three-peat, something that hasn’t been seen in the WNBA since it’s very first years in existence.

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