LAS VEGAS — Becky Hammon has been eagerly anticipating the moment when all of her guards in Las Vegas would be firing on all cylinders. Throughout the 2023 season, the trio of Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, and Kelsey Plum proved to be a formidable force, dominating most games and shining brightly in the WNBA Finals series against the New York Liberty. Even without Gray in the pivotal closing win, the perimeter trio outperformed their opponents with finesse and skill.
However, as the current season unfolds, the Aces have found themselves shuffling their lineup and experimenting with different combinations. Despite the addition of Tiffany Hayes to an already talented guard roster, consistency has been a challenge. It’s been rare to see all four guards performing at their peak in a single game. Whether it’s Young having a stellar scoring night while Plum struggles, or Gray having an off-game, the Aces have struggled to find the perfect balance among their talented quartet.
Becky Hammon remarked, “We’ve had two players excel on a given night, with A’ja Wilson’s consistent brilliance, but beyond that, it’s the other pieces that need to fall into place.”
On a recent Friday night, Hammon finally got her wish as all four Aces players delivered exceptional performances. Five players scored in double digits in a crucial 95-81 victory, allowing the team to extend their playoff journey and set up a must-win Game 4 on Sunday as they aim for a three-peat championship.
Aces NOT done yet ♠️
After facing elimination for the first time since 2021, the Las Vegas Aces force a Game 4 against the Liberty in the Semi-Finals! Jackie Young led the charge with 24 points 🔥
Final Score: 95-81#WelcometotheW | #WNBAPlayoffs presented by @Google pic.twitter.com/fDGNmr66M1
— WNBA (@WNBA) October 5, 2024
Hammon expressed her satisfaction, saying, “Everything clicked for us tonight. It was perhaps our most complete game of the season, and it’s the moment we’ve been waiting for and believing in.”
The Aces’ resurgence was fueled by their strong defensive performance. The Liberty’s Sabrina Ionescu, who had been a standout performer in the series, was effectively neutralized by a revamped defensive strategy. Hammon’s goal of achieving a C-plus effort in defending Ionescu was surpassed as the Aces implemented a simplified defensive scheme that stifled the Liberty’s star player.
As Ionescu struggled to find her rhythm, the Liberty resorted to isolations and abandoned their usual fluid style of play. In contrast, the Aces thrived off their defensive stops, translating them into offensive opportunities and building a comfortable lead.
Tiffany Hayes remarked, “Our defense drives our offense. We know our strengths on the defensive end, and we have the tenacity to get the job done.”
During a pivotal 16-0 run in the third quarter, the Aces showcased their offensive prowess, with contributions from all guards. Plum, Gray, Young, and Hayes combined to overwhelm the Liberty and secure a convincing victory.
Chelsea Gray emphasized the importance of their defensive focus and attention to detail, stating, “We made sure to disrupt their flow and force tough shots, especially against Sabrina. It all starts on the defensive end, and it sets the tone for our offense.”
Recognizing the Liberty’s strength in the frontcourt, the Aces have relied on their guard play to be the differentiating factor in their quest for a third consecutive title. A’ja Wilson’s unwavering excellence has been complemented by the impressive performances of the guard quartet.
Wilson expressed confidence in her teammates’ ability to shine under pressure, stating, “When our backs are against the wall, that’s when we rise to the occasion.” The resounding victory over the Liberty validated Wilson’s belief, as the Aces demonstrated their defensive prowess and offensive fluidity.
As they look ahead to the next game and the possibility of a three-peat, the Aces are determined to maintain their identity and resilience. Becky Hammon declared, “We are the Aces, and we will not back down.”
(Photo, from left, of Chelsea Gray, Jonquel Jones and Kelsey Plum: Ethan Miller / Getty Images)
Conclusion:
As the Las Vegas Aces continue their playoffs journey with renewed vigor and determination, the recent victory over the Liberty has reignited their championship aspirations. Led by a stellar performance from their guard quartet, the Aces displayed a level of cohesion and resilience that bodes well for their pursuit of a third consecutive WNBA title.
With their defensive acumen and offensive firepower on full display, the Aces have once again proven their mettle under pressure. As they gear up for Game 4 and the potential for another thrilling showdown, fans and pundits alike are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the Aces’ quest for glory.
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