The Las Vegas Aces implemented a zone defense in the fourth quarter of the WNBA Finals game against the Phoenix Mercury, a strategy they hadn’t focused on extensively before. This tactic proved effective as the Aces, led by A’ja Wilson and Dana Evans with 21 points each, staged a comeback to secure an 89-86 victory in Game 1. Wilson contributed significantly in the final minutes, scoring 12 points, while a missed 3-pointer by Phoenix’s Satou Sabally in the closing seconds prevented a tie.
Las Vegas will face Phoenix again in Game 2 on Sunday, aiming to maintain their momentum. The Mercury struggled in the fourth quarter, shooting 6 of 18 from the field and 2 of 12 from beyond the arc, after entering the period with impressive shooting percentages.
Aces coach Becky Hammon explained that the decision to switch to zone defense was prompted by Phoenix’s effective scoring against their man-to-man defense, particularly in the paint, leading to vulnerabilities. The defensive adjustment allowed the Aces to better defend against Phoenix’s shooters.
Dana Evans played a vital role off the bench for the Aces, outscoring the Mercury’s reserves 41-16 and setting a record in Finals with five 3-pointers and four steals. Wilson praised Evans for her impact on the team’s pace and emphasized her importance in their gameplay.
Key contributors for the Aces included Jewell Loyd with 18 points, Jackie Young with 10 points, Wilson with 10 rebounds, and Chelsea Gray with 10 assists. On the other side, Kahleah Cooper led the Mercury with 21 points, supported by Sabally with 19 points and Alyssa Thomas with 15 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists.
The closely contested Game 1 indicated that the Finals, now a best-of-seven series for the first time, are likely to be intense. With multiple lead changes and ties, both teams showed resilience and competitiveness throughout the game.
Looking ahead, the Mercury will seek to bounce back in Game 2 after a missed opportunity at the free-throw line by Thomas in the final seconds of Game 1. The Aces will strive to extend their lead in the series and move closer to their third title in four years. Both teams are gearing up for an exciting and tightly contested series as they aim for WNBA glory.