Posted on: October 18, 2023, 11:20h.

Last updated on: October 18, 2023, 11:22h.

The Las Vegas Aces emerged victorious in a thrilling Game 4 of the WNA Finals against the New York Liberty, winning 70-69 and securing their second consecutive championship title. This historic win marks the first time a WNBA team has repeated as champions since the Los Angeles Sparks in 2002.

The Aces’ victory is even more remarkable considering the absence of star guard Chelsea Gray and center Kiah Stokes, who had been key contributors throughout the season, averaging 17.5 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 7.9 assists for the team. Both players suffered foot injuries in Game 3.

Despite trailing 39-30 at halftime, the Aces mounted a formidable comeback led by forward Breanna Stewart, the 2023 MVP, and guard Sabrina Ionescu. A’ja Wilson, the forward, played a crucial role with 24 points and 16 rebounds, while Jackie Young, the guard, contributed 16 points and seven assists.

The game reached a climactic moment with 8.8 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. Trailing by a single point, Liberty guard Courtney Vandersloot had the opportunity to force a decisive Game 5 and bring the series back to Las Vegas. However, she missed the shot, igniting celebrations among the jubilant Aces players at midcourt.

WNBA Finals MVP A’ja Wilson expressed her pride in her teammates and the camaraderie they shared. She said, “They picked me up when I was down. We cried together, we prayed together, and now we are popping champagne together!”

Aces head coach Becky Hammon displayed unwavering confidence in her team, stating, “There’s not a person out here I don’t believe in… Win or lose, I am rolling with them all day.”

The Aces now face the delightful dilemma of deciding where to hold their victory parade. However, the Las Vegas Strip is currently undergoing preparations for the upcoming Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, making the choice slightly more complicated.