A'ja Wilson has big day in Aces' win over Mercury

The Las Vegas Aces made 56% of their field goals today and recorded 32 assists against the Phoenix Mercury, scoring 51 points in the first half and cruising to a 97-79 win.

“We had a good showing on the defensive end,” A’ja Wilson said. “That’s key for us cause that’s where we struggled in the past…It got us open looks and easy rhythm shots on the offensive side. We took what the defense gave us and just went from there.” 

Jackie Young dominated with 14 assists and 11 points in her return to the lineup after sitting out Friday against the Atlanta Dream. Aces coach Becky Hammon sat Young due to fatigue from the Olympics. 

“I feel good and I’m excited to be back on the court. I hate missing games, but we got the win today and that’s all that matters,” Young said.

Wilson led the way 41 points and 17 rebounds, marking her third game with more than 40 points this season. Kelsey Plum had 16 points and five assists. Tiffany Hayes had 11 points off the bench. 

“I’m honestly so grateful that my offseason preparation is coming to fruition now,” Wilson said. “It’s coming to life and that’s what I’m very proud of.” 

The Aces won the rebounding battle by 11 boards and forced Phoenix into 15 turnovers.

“That’s two really good defensive efforts in a row for us,” Hammon said. “We know we're going to make shots on any given night, but it’s the defense that travels with us. Our defense has to give us the chance to win games. Their lock in factor has been really good these past two games.” 

The Aces improve to 20-12 on the season, winning back-to-back games for the first time since mid-July. They are now two games ahead of the Seattle Storm for the No. 4 seed in the upcoming WNBA Playoffs. 

Las Vegas will host the Chicago Sky at 7 p.m. Tuesday at T-Mobile Arena.