At the start of this WNBA season, there was widespread anticipation for the Las Vegas Aces to dominate. With a star-studded lineup anchored by league MVP A’ja Wilson and guided by esteemed coach Becky Hammon, expectations were high. However, confidence in their success faltered when the Aces (10-6) experienced a challenging stretch, losing five of seven games. Suddenly, their quest for a third consecutive championship seemed less assured.
Since their last defeat—a close eight-point loss to the New York Liberty on June 16—the Aces have turned things around dramatically, securing four consecutive victories. Their latest triumph was an 88-77 win on the road against the Washington Mystics. A significant factor in this resurgence has been the return of their top guard, Olympian and All-Star Chelsea Gray.
Gray, 31, had been sidelined due to a left foot injury sustained in Game 3 of last season’s WNBA Finals. Her rehabilitation delayed her season debut until June 19, when she played 15 minutes and contributed seven assists in a win over the Seattle Storm. Coincidentally or not, this marked the beginning of the Aces’ four-game winning streak.
Coach Becky Hammon highlighted Gray’s impact, emphasizing her strategic vision and ability to make real-time adjustments on the court. Gray’s return to peak performance was evident in the game against the Mystics, where she scored a season-high 22 points alongside four rebounds and four assists. Her contributions were crucial as A’ja Wilson faced a scoreless first half for the first time in her career, with Las Vegas trailing by six points at halftime. Gray’s nine points in the third quarter played a pivotal role in the Aces’ comeback victory.
Reflecting on her recovery process, Gray expressed satisfaction with her physical and mental progress, emphasizing her readiness to contribute consistently again.
With Gray back in top form, the Aces appear to have regained their championship-caliber status and are once again considered favorites for the WNBA title, according to DraftKings sportsbook, which lists them with +150 odds.
