The Las Vegas Aces are heading back to the WNBA Finals for the third time in the last four seasons, following a dramatic 107-98 overtime victory against the Indiana Fever in Game 5 of their semifinal series. This exhilarating matchup marked only the second occurrence in league history where a winner-take-all Game 5 went into overtime. The Aces are set to face the Phoenix Mercury in the Finals, with Game 1 scheduled for Friday night in Las Vegas.
The first half of the game was intensely competitive, with neither team leading by more than five points. Over the course of the initial 20 minutes, there were 13 lead changes and 14 ties, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish. This pattern of close scoring continued into the third quarter until a crucial possession altered the game's momentum. Aliyah Boston was called for her fifth foul due to a moving screen, and Kelsey Mitchell suffered an apparent knee injury, which forced her to leave the game.
With the Fever down two key players, the Aces capitalized on this misfortune, surging ahead by eight points as they entered the fourth quarter. However, the Fever displayed remarkable resilience. Odyssey Sims managed to tie the game on two separate occasions in the final minute. Despite attempts by Jackie Young and Jewell Loyd to secure a win, their shots fell short, ultimately leading to overtime.
While Young and A'ja Wilson had been the Aces' driving forces during regulation, it was Chelsea Gray who emerged as the hero in overtime. The Aces needed a boost as they began the extra period with only Wilson and Young in double figures. In a situation reminiscent of Game 4, where the Aces faltered, Gray’s experience and skill became crucial. Despite struggling earlier in the series with an average of 11.5 points and 7.3 assists, Gray knew it was time to step up.
After sustaining an ankle injury in the third quarter, Gray showed incredible determination by returning to the court. Although her performance in the second half was underwhelming, she transformed in overtime, scoring eight points on a perfect 3 of 3 shooting. Her clutch plays, including a contested three-pointer and a sneaky layup, effectively sealed the game for the Aces.
A'ja Wilson finished the game with an impressive 35 points, eight rebounds, five assists, four steals, and four blocks, while Jackie Young added 32 points and 10 assists. Chelsea Gray contributed 17 points and six assists, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure despite her injury. For the Fever, Mitchell scored 15 points before her injury, with Boston contributing 11 points and 16 rebounds. Notably, Sims led the Fever with a playoff career-high of 27 points and six assists.
Chelsea Gray's performance in this critical matchup reminds fans of her significant contributions during the Aces' previous championship run. In 2022, she played a pivotal role in securing the franchise's first title, averaging 21.7 points and seven assists during the playoffs. However, her journey has not been without challenges, as injuries have sidelined her during crucial moments in subsequent seasons.
As the Aces prepare for the Finals, the team will need Gray to continue delivering standout performances. A'ja Wilson expressed her appreciation, stating, "It’s a blessing to play alongside Chelsea Gray. The way that I saw the look in her eyes after we lost in Indiana, I knew the Chelsea Gray that we were going to get this game." With the Finals approaching, the Aces are poised for a strong showing, aiming for their third title in what may be this core group’s final run together.
