Aces Secure WNBA Playoff Spot
Introduction to the Game
Las Vegas (25-14) won its 11th straight game to become the second team to clinch a playoff spot this season. The Aces secured a WNBA playoff spot with a 79-74 victory over the Chicago Sky on Monday night. Jackie Young had 22 points and seven assists, A’ja Wilson added 18 points and nine rebounds.
Key Players’ Performance
Chelsea Gray had 14 points and seven assists, and NaLyssa Smith scored 10 points for the Aces. Ariel Atkins led Chicago (9-28) with a season-high 30 points, and Kamilla Cardoso had 19 points and 10 rebounds. Angel Reese added 10 points and 17 rebounds for her league-leading 20th double-double this season. Reese also passed Tina Charles (45) for the most double-doubles through a player’s first two seasons in WNBA history.
Game Highlights
Young scored Las Vegas’ final 12 points of the first half, capped by a 3-pointer with 0.2 seconds left for a 44-32 lead. She finished the half with 20 points on 8-of-10 shooting, including 4 of 5 from 3-point range. Reese made a fast-break layup with 2:37 left in the fourth to give Chicago a 74-73 lead, its first since it was up 7-5. Gray sank a 3-pointer for a 76-74 lead and Wilson made a jumper from the corner of the free-throw line on their next possession for a four-point advantage.
Jersey Retirement
Honoring Candace Parker
Chicago honored Candace Parker at halftime by raising her retired No. 3 jersey to the rafters of Wintrust Arena, alongside the team’s 2021 championship banner she helped the Sky win. Earlier this summer, Parker had her jersey retired in Los Angeles, where she helped win a championship in 2016. She’s the second WNBA player to have her number retired by two different teams. Lindsay Whalen had her jersey retired by both Connecticut and Minnesota.
CHICAGO (AP) — Jackie Young had 22 points and seven assists, A’ja Wilson added 18 points and nine rebounds, and the Las Vegas Aces secured a WNBA playoff spot with a 79-74 victory over the Chicago Sky on Monday night.
Conclusion
The Aces’ victory over the Sky marked a significant milestone in their season, securing their spot in the playoffs. With their 11th straight win, they demonstrated their strength and determination, making them a formidable opponent in the upcoming playoffs.
FAQs
What was the final score of the game between the Aces and the Sky?
The final score was 79-74 in favor of the Aces.
Who led the Chicago Sky in points?
Ariel Atkins led the Chicago Sky with a season-high 30 points.
How many double-doubles does Angel Reese have this season?
Angel Reese has 20 double-doubles this season, a league-leading record.
What honor was given to Candace Parker during the game?
Candace Parker’s retired No. 3 jersey was raised to the rafters of Wintrust Arena, a testament to her contributions to the team.
