In an electrifying showdown, the Las Vegas Aces demonstrated their championship caliber during Game 3 of the WNBA Finals, overcoming a fierce challenge from the Phoenix Mercury to secure a thrilling 90-88 victory. This win places the Aces firmly in control of the best-of-seven series, now leading 3-0 and inching closer to another title.
Throughout the season, Aces president Nikki Fargas maintained her belief in the team's potential for greatness, particularly with star player A'ja Wilson leading the charge. "When you have A’ja Wilson…," Fargas said, her voice trailing off, emphasizing the profound impact Wilson has on the team’s success. That impact was unmistakable as Wilson delivered a defining performance in Game 3.
The Mercury put up a strong fight, staging a remarkable comeback by erasing a 17-point deficit in the fourth quarter. Led by the scoring prowess of Kahleah Copper and clutch plays from veteran DeWanna Bonner, Phoenix fought hard to regain momentum. However, the Aces, despite briefly straying from their strategy of feeding Wilson, found their way back to their superstar for the game’s final moments.
With only five seconds left on the clock, Aces coach Becky Hammon called a timeout to strategize for the final possession. Despite the pressure, Hammon confidently placed the ball in the hands of Wilson, who skillfully drove left from the elbow. With a deft maneuver, she released a short jumper over the outstretched arms of Alyssa Thomas. The ball danced on the rim before falling through, granting the Aces a crucial two-point lead with less than a second to spare.
Wilson’s performance was nothing short of historic, as she set a franchise record for points in a finals game with 34, surpassing teammate Jackie Young on the final basket. This victory further solidified her status as a four-time MVP and placed her one win away from claiming her third title in four seasons. Moreover, Wilson shattered the WNBA record for points scored in a postseason, marking her ninth playoff game with at least 25 points and 10 rebounds—an unprecedented achievement.
Reflecting on her pivotal shot, Wilson noted, “Those are the moments that you live for, so I’m glad I was able to show up.” This moment echoed a previous iconic shot from the 2023 finals against the New York Liberty, reinforcing Wilson’s reputation for delivering in clutch situations. She humorously compared the two moments, highlighting the significance of the Game 3 shot in sealing the victory.
The Mercury entered the game with a strategy aimed at containing Wilson, initially assigning Natasha Mack to guard her. However, this strategy quickly faltered as Wilson showcased her versatility, scoring early and often to help the Aces maintain control. Whenever Phoenix threatened to close the gap, it was Wilson who ensured the Aces regained their footing with timely buckets and defensive prowess.
In the final moments of the game, as the Aces struggled to maintain their lead, Wilson's teammates rallied around her, confident that she could deliver. Coach Hammon’s decisive directive to “Give the ball to A’ja” proved crucial, especially after Wilson had a momentary lapse on a previous possession that allowed the Mercury a chance to take the lead. “I just had to get that one back, because that would have crushed my whole soul,” Wilson remarked, underscoring the pressure she felt.
In a high-pressure environment, Wilson's ability to rise to the occasion not only demonstrates her skill but also cements her legacy as a player who thrives in crucial moments. As the Aces inch closer to another championship, the entire organization stands behind Wilson, confident in her ability to lead them to victory. This is not merely a moment for stars; it’s a moment for legends, and A’ja Wilson is undeniably on her way to becoming one.
