The Las Vegas Aces are maintaining their undefeated record in the 2023 WNBA playoffs. They secured a commanding victory in Game 2 of the 2023 WNBA Finals against the New York Liberty with a final score of 104-76 at the Michelob Ultra Arena on Thursday, October 12. With this result, the Aces are one step closer to defending their championship title.
A Dominant Performance
In Game 2, the Aces exhibited sheer dominance, leaving the Liberty struggling to catch up right from the start. The Aces comfortably secured the win, with a lead of up to 30 points (90-60) in the final six minutes of the game. Under the guidance of head coach Becky Hammon, the Aces executed a solid defensive strategy combined with an effective offensive approach.
“Tonight, we were exceptional. They couldn’t silence us. We executed defensively and attacked with precision. Everything we asked for was delivered,” said Hammon after the game.
Stellar Performances by Aces Players
Three Aces players shone in Game 2, each scoring over 23 points and coming close to a double-double performance. A’ja Wilson led the charge with an impressive 26 points and 15 rebounds. Jackie Young contributed 24 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists, while Kelsey Plum added 23 points, 8 assists, and 3 steals to the scoreboard. Chelsea Gray also made her presence felt with 14 points, 11 assists, and 6 rebounds.
On the Liberty’s side, Jonquel Jones stood out with 22 points and 10 rebounds, followed by Breanna Stewart with 14 points and 13 rebounds. Betnijah Laney added 12 points and 5 assists, with Sabrina Ionescu contributing 10 points.
A Historic Opportunity
If the Aces manage to sweep the Liberty in this final series, they will become the first team to secure back-to-back championships since the Los Angeles Sparks in 2001-2002. Moreover, history favors the Aces, as no team has ever managed to come back after trailing 2 games in the Finals.
Game 3 of the 2023 WNBA Finals, the decider, is scheduled for either Sunday, October 15, or Monday, WIB, at the Barclays Center in New York. In Game 1 of the 2023 WNBA Finals, the Liberty suffered a defeat with a final score of 82-99.
“Vegas is playing their best basketball right now. They exude confidence and possess exceptional chemistry. We have yet to find a better approach. We’re disappointed because we know we’re a far better team than this,” expressed Sandy Brondello, the coach of the Liberty.