Las Vegas Aces: WNBA's 1st Repeat Champions in 21 Years

The Las Vegas Aces win the 2023 WNBA Finals, becoming the first team to repeat as champions since 2001-2002.

The Las Vegas Aces emerged victorious in a thrilling Game 4 of the 2023 WNBA Finals, defeating the New York Liberty by a narrow margin of 70-69. This victory secured the Aces their second consecutive championship title, making them the first team to achieve such a feat since the Los Angeles Sparks in 2001-2002.

Despite facing the absence of key players Chelsea Gray and Kiah Stokes, who both suffered foot injuries in Game 3, the Aces displayed resilience and determination. A'ja Wilson, the standout forward for Las Vegas, delivered an exceptional performance, contributing 24 points and an impressive 16 rebounds. Guard Jackie Young also made a significant impact, adding 16 points and seven assists to secure the victory.

The Liberty, led by the 2023 MVP forward Breanna Stewart and guard Sabrina Ionescu, started the game strongly, establishing a commanding lead of 23-13 in the first quarter. However, the Aces refused to be deterred and mounted a remarkable comeback.

In the final moments of the fourth quarter, with just 8.8 seconds remaining and trailing by one point, Liberty guard Courtney Vandersloot had the opportunity to send the series back to Las Vegas and force a decisive Game 5 with a buzzer-beater. Unfortunately for the Liberty, Vandersloot's shot missed, leading to scenes of jubilation for the Aces at midcourt in the Barclays Center, located in Brooklyn, New York.

A'ja Wilson was rightfully named the WNBA Finals MVP, expressing her gratitude to her teammates for their unwavering support throughout the series. She acknowledged the team's resilience, stating, "We leaned on each other so much during this time. We faced adversity throughout the season, but we emerged victorious. I am incredibly proud of my teammates. They lifted me up when I was down. We shared tears, prayers, and now we are celebrating together with champagne!"

Head coach Becky Hammon exuded confidence in her team, emphasizing her belief in each and every player. She proclaimed, "There's not a single person here that I don't believe in. I know the strength of their character, and regardless of the outcome, I stand by them wholeheartedly. I am with them every step of the way."

The Las Vegas Aces' triumph in the 2023 WNBA Finals will undoubtedly be remembered as a testament to their resilience, teamwork, and unwavering determination. This victory solidifies their status as one of the league's most dominant forces, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of women's basketball.