Las Vegas Aces

The Las Vegas Aces' quest for a three-peat was thwarted by the New York Liberty in the WNBA semifinals, with A'ja Wilson facing criticism despite a standout season that earned her a unanimous MVP award. Wilson's performance in the playoffs, although strong, could not lift her team past the Liberty, who effectively countered her with a solid defensive strategy. Head coach Becky Hammon indicated that the Aces may need to reevaluate their roster, as the team's struggles throughout the season culminated in this disappointing playoff exit. Wilson's remarkable achievements this year, including leading the league in rebounds and setting a record for points in a single season, were overshadowed by the team's overall performance. Support from figures like Sheryl Swoopes highlights the camaraderie within women's basketball, as she defended Wilson against backlash from fans questioning her capabilities. The challenges of achieving a three-peat in the competitive landscape of the WNBA were underscored, with Wilson expressing gratitude towards fans and a commitment to return stronger next season.