Aces Drop Opener by 33 After 3-Diamond Ring Ceremony and A’ja Wilson Sneaker Debut
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 12
Aces Drop Opener by 33 After 3-Diamond Ring Ceremony and A’ja Wilson Sneaker Debut
6 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 12
Las Vegas opened its title defense with a 33-point loss to Phoenix after a pregame ring ceremony celebrating the franchise’s third championship in four years.
The Aces appeared overwhelmed by the emotion of the event against the same team they beat in the 2025 Finals, though A’ja Wilson’s A’Two sneaker launch and the ceremony underscored the club’s star power.
A day later, Las Vegas looked far more like a contender, routing Los Angeles and easing concerns that the opener reflected a deeper drop-off.
Opening week elsewhere was uneven for young stars: Paige Bueckers scored 20 points in Dallas’ 107-104 win at Indiana, while Washington’s Georgia Amoore already has 10 assists through two games.
Week 2 now shifts focus to early measuring-stick games, including Aces-Dream, which is already being framed as a possible WNBA Finals preview.
After a stunning opening loss, is the Aces' dynasty already threatened by the WNBA's new generation of stars?
As star endorsements dwarf league salaries, how will this wealth gap reshape the future of WNBA player compensation?
With franchise values hitting $1 billion, is the WNBA's new media deal already a massive bargain for broadcasters?