The Las Vegas Aces are once again proving their resilience in the WNBA playoffs, as they managed to stave off elimination with a convincing 95-81 victory over the New York Liberty. Led by a stellar performance from their guard quartet, the Aces showcased their potential to keep their three-peat championship quest alive.
Head coach Becky Hammon had been waiting for a game where all four of her guards would click on all cylinders, and that game finally came on Friday night. Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, Kelsey Plum, and Tiffany Hayes all delivered peak performances, with five players scoring in double digits to secure the much-needed win.
The key to the Aces’ success in Game 3 was their defensive effort, particularly against Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu. After struggling to contain Ionescu in the first two games of the series, the Aces simplified their defensive scheme and focused on limiting her impact. The result was Ionescu’s lowest-scoring playoff output of her career, as she was held to just four points on 1-of-7 shooting.
With Ionescu neutralized, the Liberty resorted to isolation basketball, a departure from their usual style of play. On the other hand, the Aces’ defense propelled them into a rhythm on the offensive end, as they capitalized on turnovers and missed shots to go on a game-changing 16-0 run in the third quarter.
The guard quartet of Young, Plum, Gray, and Hayes led the charge during the decisive run, showcasing their scoring prowess and playmaking abilities. The collective effort of the guards, along with A’ja Wilson’s consistent excellence, was instrumental in the Aces’ victory and their ability to force a Game 4 against the Liberty.
As they look to continue their quest for a three-peat championship, the Aces know that their advantage lies in the backcourt. With the frontcourt MVPs of the Liberty to contend with, the guard quartet will need to continue stepping up and delivering in order to secure another title.
The Aces’ performance in Game 3 was a testament to their resilience and determination to fight until the end. With their backs against the wall, they rose to the occasion and proved that they are not ready to fold. As they prepare for Game 4, the Aces will look to build on their momentum and continue their pursuit of another WNBA championship.
