Las Vegas Aces bench dominance secures Game 1 WNBA Finals lead over Phoenix Mercury

The 2025 WNBA Finals feature a tightly contested series between the Las Vegas Aces and the Phoenix Mercury, highlighting the Aces' depth as a key factor in their Game 1 victory. The Aces overcame a late-game deficit, with bench players Dana Evans and Jewell Loyd delivering crucial points, while Phoenix struggled with turnovers and missed free throws in the closing moments. Phoenix's playoff run has been marked by impressive road victories against top teams, including a major comeback against the Minnesota Lynx, showcasing their resilience despite being the lower seed. The Mercury, aiming for their fourth championship, boast experienced players like DeWanna Bonner, Sami Whitcomb, and Kahleah Copper, who each bring multiple championship wins to the team. Historically, the Mercury have had fluctuating success but remain a formidable opponent, with a rich legacy including three championships and a deep competitive history against various teams. The series presents a clash of seasoned championship contenders with contrasting paths to the finals and highlights the importance of team depth, experience, and execution under pressure.