Las Vegas Aces: A Rollercoaster Start to the Season and What’s Next

By: Jordan Reese

· Vegas

The Las Vegas Aces have had a turbulent start to their 2025 WNBA campaign, sitting at 5-6 and 4th in the Western Conference. With key wins showcasing their potential and tough losses exposing areas for improvement, the Aces are navigating a challenging season—especially with star A’ja Wilson sidelined for the last couple of games. Let’s break down the highs, lows, and what lies ahead.

Key Wins: Aces Shine Bright

May 23 vs Washington Mystics (75-72)

This nail-biter showcased Jackie Young’s offensive prowess as she dropped 25 points, while A’ja Wilson dominated the boards with 12 rebounds and added 5 assists. The Aces showed grit in closing out a tight game against a strong opponent.

May 30 vs Los Angeles Sparks (96-81)

A’ja Wilson delivered a monster performance with 35 points, 13 rebounds, and 6 assists, proving why she’s the centerpiece of this team. The Aces controlled the game from start to finish, earning a decisive victory.

June 13 vs Dallas Wings (88-84)

Jackie Young stepped up in Wilson’s absence, scoring 28 points and leading the team to a hard-fought win. Kiah Stokes contributed with 8 rebounds, while Chelsea Gray added 5 assists, showing the team’s depth and resilience.

Tough Losses: Areas for Growth

June 11 vs Los Angeles Sparks (97-89)

Despite Jackie Young’s season-high 34 points and 8 rebounds, the Aces fell short in a high-scoring affair. Defensive lapses and turnovers proved costly, highlighting the need for tighter execution in crunch time.

June 15 vs Phoenix Mercury (76-70)

Chelsea Gray led the team with 20 points, while Kiah Stokes grabbed 14 rebounds. However, the absence of Wilson was felt as the Aces struggled to maintain offensive consistency and fell to a surging Mercury squad.

June 17 @ Minnesota Lynx (76-62)

Facing the league-leading Lynx, the Aces couldn’t find their rhythm. Jewell Loyd led the team with 12 points and 8 rebounds, but the offense sputtered without Wilson’s presence. Minnesota’s defense stifled the Aces, handing them their sixth loss of the season.

Top Performers: Stepping Up

Jackie Young: Averaging 19.0 points per game, Young has been the offensive engine, especially in Wilson’s absence. Her ability to score and facilitate has kept the Aces competitive.

Chelsea Gray: With 15.1 points and 3.4 assists per game, Gray has been a steady presence, providing leadership and playmaking.

Kiah Stokes: Emerging as a defensive anchor, Stokes has stepped up on the boards, particularly in the last few games.

Looking Ahead: Key Matchups

June 20 vs Seattle Storm (7-5)

The Aces will face a Storm team riding momentum with a winning record. Seattle’s balanced attack will test Las Vegas’ defense, especially without Wilson. Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray will need to lead the charge offensively, while Stokes must continue her strong rebounding to limit second-chance opportunities for the Storm.

June 22 vs Indiana Fever (6-5)

The Fever are a scrappy team with a solid 6-5 record. This matchup presents an opportunity for the Aces to regain their footing at home. Indiana’s physical style will challenge Las Vegas, but if Young and Gray can find their rhythm, the Aces have a chance to secure a much-needed win.

A’ja Wilson’s Absence: A Lingering Challenge

The Aces have been without their star player, A’ja Wilson, for the last couple of games, and she remains listed as out. Wilson’s absence has been felt on both ends of the court—her scoring, rebounding, and leadership are irreplaceable. While the team has shown flashes of resilience, they’ll need to find ways to adapt until she returns.

As the Aces prepare for their next stretch of games, the focus will be on tightening their defense, improving offensive efficiency, and leaning on their depth. With Wilson’s return still uncertain, the team must rally together to stay competitive in a tough Western Conference.

Stay tuned, Vegas fans—this season is far from over, and the Aces have the talent to turn things around. Let’s keep the faith and cheer on our team as they fight to reclaim their championship form!