The Aces’ title defense is off to an up-and-down start, as 2025 runner-up Phoenix humbled Las Vegas 99-66 on Saturday — setting up Sunday’s 105-78 bounce-back win over LA.
Reigning WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson began the 2026 season where she left off, turning in two 19-point performances in both games despite her team’s early struggles against a formidable Phoenix offense.
“We know what it’s like to have a long offseason,” Wilson after falling to the Mercury. “You’re just like, ‘I don’t care who’s in front of us this first game, we have to redeem ourselves.’”
The Aces righted the ship against a Sparks team in flux, as LA integrates veteran talent like forward Nneka Ogwumike — plus reserve signing Kate Martin — into a developing squad.
2024 No. 2 pick Cameron Brink only played eight minutes off the bench in the defeat, as the Sparks lost pace despite a 27-point night from star guard Kelsey Plum.
“We need Cam to bring that defensive energy,” said LA head coach Lynne Roberts.
“We have so much confidence and belief in her. She's gotta get out on the floor with some confidence, and do what she's capable of doing.”
Las Vegas Aces Headline USA's Wednesday WNBA Doubleheader
Las Vegas tips off USA’s Wednesday doubleheader against Connecticut at 8 PM ET, before LA hosts Indiana at 10:30 PM ET.
