After Biz News Of Selling Out All Home Games, Las Vegas Aces Take Care Of Business On Court With Win Over Connecticut Sun Friday
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Story by Cassandra Cousineau Photos by Hugh Byrne
The Las Vegas Aces took care of business at the box office by selling out all its home games this season and also on the court Friday with an 85-74 win over the Connecticut Sun behind A’ja Wilson’s 26 points and 16 rebounds.
After the Aces split their first dozen games, the defending two-time WNBA champs have won back-to-back games and have an 8-6 record after completing the three-game homestand at Mandalay’s Bay Michelob Ultra Arena. It was only the Sun’s second loss this season.
Announced attendance was 10,389.
In a season that has already seen the highest attendance numbers since the WNBA’s second season 26 years ago, and the best TV ratings in league history, Aces’ Chief Operating and Chief Financial Officer Matt Delsen sees continued growth for the league.
“I do think that the growth is just the beginning,” he remarked Friday.
On the court, Kelsey Plum helped the Aces with 18 points, while Alysha Clark had 11 points.
In only her second game back, Aces guard Chelsea Gray saw 17 minutes of action four points, two rebounds and an assist.
Wilson’s 26 points and 16 rebounds marked the 85th double-double of her career, which ranks seventh in WNBA history.
When LVSportsBiz.com asked about Wilson’s performance, head coach Becky Hammon praised her consistency and drive.
“She’s a beast. She just always does it the right way,” Hammon said. “How much more can I get out of her? I don’t know.”
Wilson dropped a gem on her way out of the press room tonight. She said to ask Hammon about Muditā.
Hammon explained it’s a Dharmic concept of having joy in the success of others — a philosophy that seems to permeate the Aces’ team dynamic over the last two games.
“I think you’re starting to see the vibe get back a little bit,” the coach said.
Las Vegas is off until Thursday when the Aces travel to Chicago (5-9) for a 4 pm PT tip against the Sky.
