The Las Vegas Aces achieved Dominant Victory on Thursday night, securing their 13th consecutive win and exacting revenge against the Minnesota Lynx. According to Sportsnet, the Aces defeated the Lynx 97-87 at the T-Mobile Arena on September 4, 2025, marking a franchise record. This win not only cements their status as championship contenders but also avenges a previous blowout loss to the Lynx earlier in the season.
A’ja Wilson’s Historic Performance
Reigning MVP A’ja Wilson led the charge with a game-high 31 points and eight rebounds, as reported by Fastbreak. This marks her 12th 30-plus point game of the season, tying a WNBA record. Wilson’s consistent excellence has been a cornerstone of the Aces’ success. Alongside Wilson, guard Jackie Young contributed a significant 20 points, showcasing the team’s balanced offensive attack. Chelsea Gray added a double-double with 13 points and 10 assists, highlighting her crucial role in orchestrating the Aces’ offense. The team’s offensive efficiency was evident in their impressive shooting percentages, with 55.1% from the field and 45.8% from beyond the arc, according to Sporty.com.
Key Player Contributions
- A’ja Wilson: 31 points, 8 rebounds (tied WNBA record for 30+ point games in a season)
- Jackie Young: 20 points
- Chelsea Gray: 13 points, 10 assists (double-double)
The Revenge Game
The September 4th game held significant weight as the Aces sought to avenge a humiliating 111-58 defeat suffered against the Lynx on August 2nd. According to Castanet.net, that loss was the Aces’ last before embarking on their current historic winning streak. Head coach Becky Hammon emphasized the team’s determination to “do it right this time,” indicating a focused and prepared approach to the rematch. This victory not only extended their winning streak but also served as a statement of their growth and resilience.
Turning Point: From Blowout to Dominance
The transformation from a crushing defeat to a dominant victory illustrates the Aces’ ability to learn from their mistakes and adapt their game plan. The San Francisco Chronicle notes that the Aces demonstrated improved defensive strategies and a more cohesive offensive flow in the rematch, effectively neutralizing the Lynx’s key players and capitalizing on their own strengths. This strategic adjustment proved crucial in securing the win and extending their winning streak.
Impact on WNBA Standings
This dominant victory has significantly impacted the Aces’ position in the WNBA standings. Azat TV reports that they moved into a second-place tie with the Atlanta Dream and Phoenix Mercury, just five games behind the league-leading Lynx. The 13-game winning streak is a testament to the team’s resilience and growth, particularly after a rocky start to the 2025 season following Kelsey Plum’s departure. CBS News highlights that the Aces became only the seventh team in WNBA history to achieve such a prolonged winning streak in a single season, solidifying their status as a formidable championship contender. Furthermore, ClutchPoints indicates that the win snapped a six-game losing streak against the Lynx, preventing a four-game season sweep.
Dominant Victory and Playoff Implications
As the playoffs approach, the Aces’ momentum and confidence are at an all-time high. The Sporting Tribune suggests that their ability to maintain this level of performance will be critical in their quest for a championship. Their balanced offense, spearheaded by A’ja Wilson, Jackie Young, and Chelsea Gray, combined with their improved defensive strategies, makes them a challenging opponent for any team in the league. The Aces’ journey from an early-season setback to a historic winning streak underscores their championship mettle.
Historical Context and Team Evolution
The Aces’ current success builds upon a foundation of strategic team development and resilience. CBSSports.com points out that the departure of key players in previous seasons presented challenges, but the team has consistently adapted and found ways to compete at the highest level. The addition of new talent and the continued growth of existing players have been instrumental in their evolution. This winning streak not only represents a remarkable achievement in the present but also signifies the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
Statistical Milestones and Records
Dice City Sports emphasizes that the Aces’ 13-game winning streak is not just a franchise record but also places them among the elite teams in WNBA history. A’ja Wilson’s individual achievements, such as tying the WNBA record for 30-plus point games in a season, further highlight the team’s exceptional performance. The collective effort of the team, combined with individual brilliance, has propelled them to new heights and solidified their position as a dominant force in the league.
Conclusion
The Las Vegas Aces’ 97-87 victory over the Minnesota Lynx, documented by Deadspin and the Star Tribune, marks a significant milestone in their season, extending their winning streak to a franchise-record 13 games. Led by A’ja Wilson’s historic performance and fueled by a desire to avenge an earlier defeat, the Aces have solidified their status as a top championship contender. Their resilience, strategic adjustments, and balanced offensive attack have propelled them to new heights, making them a force to be reckoned with as the playoffs approach. This Dominant Victory is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and championship mettle.
