The Las Vegas Aces faced unexpected resistance from the depleted Indiana Fever in Game 5 despite having a significant advantage. A’ja Wilson and Jackie Young led the Aces to a hard-fought 107-98 overtime victory, securing their spot in the WNBA Finals for the third time in four years. Wilson scored 35 points, while Young added 32, making them the first playoff teammates to each score over 30 points.
The Aces, seeded second and previous league champions in 2022 and 2023, will now face the fourth-seeded Phoenix Mercury in the best-of-seven championship series starting Friday. Las Vegas, on a 16-game winning streak to close the regular season, faced tough challenges from Seattle and Indiana in the postseason.
Despite numerous injuries, the sixth-seeded Indiana Fever, led by coach Stephanie White, put up a valiant fight. Kelsey Mitchell’s departure due to leg cramping added to the team’s woes, but players like Odyssey Sims and Natasha Howard stepped up with strong performances. Mitchell had 15 points before her injury, and six Fever players reached double-digit scoring.
The Aces heavily relied on Wilson and Young, with Chelsea Gray also contributing significantly, including crucial points in overtime. The Fever, refusing to back down, forced the game into overtime, showcasing their resilience and determination throughout the match.
Aces coach Becky Hammon praised the Fever for their relentless effort and resilience, acknowledging the challenges they presented. Despite the tough battle, the Aces managed to maintain their composure and secure the win, setting up an exciting Finals matchup against the Phoenix Mercury.