Las Vegas Aces Bench Fuels 89-86 Game 1 WNBA Finals Win Over Phoenix Mercury

The Las Vegas Aces took a 1-0 lead in the 2025 WNBA Finals by narrowly defeating the Phoenix Mercury 89-86 in Game 1, largely due to a standout performance from their bench. Dana Evans led the reserves with 21 points, making history as the first player in Finals history to hit five three-pointers and record four steals in a single game, while Jewell Loyd contributed 18 points. The Aces' bench scored a total of 41 points, accounting for nearly half of the team's total and providing key defensive plays, including a crucial stop by Kiah Stokes in the final seconds. Coach Becky Hammon praised her bench as the best she has had in her tenure with the team, emphasizing their importance in resting starters like A’ja Wilson and Jackie Young. Despite strong efforts from Mercury players Kahleah Copper and Alyssa Thomas, they were unable to overcome the Aces’ depth and defensive pressure. This early series advantage highlights the Aces’ strategic use of their bench to maintain competitiveness in their pursuit of a third championship in four years.