Day after WNBA debut, Dyaisha Fair released by Las Vegas Aces

Former Syracuse basketball star Dyaisha Fair joins the Aces, struggles to find playing time due to team's depth issues.

Former Syracuse women's basketball star Dyaisha Fair has had quite the whirlwind experience in the past few days. The Las Vegas Aces took to social media to express their gratitude towards Fair with a heartfelt message that read "Thank you Dyaisha," accompanied by a brief announcement.

Fair was selected by the Aces in the second round of the recent WNBA Draft, landing at the No. 16 spot overall. With only 12 teams in the league and 12 spots on each team, it was uncertain whether Fair would secure a spot on the roster. Despite the odds, Fair did make the cut, although she did not see any playing time in the initial three regular-season games. However, she made her debut on Saturday, playing the final four minutes and contributing two assists against the Indiana Fever. The Aces, who are the reigning champions for the past two seasons, currently hold a 3-1 record this season.

According to Jack Maloney of cbssports.com, Fair's lack of playing time may be attributed to circumstances beyond her control. The Aces are facing a significant depth issue following Candace Parker's retirement and Chelsea Gray's injury. In the first four games of the season, A'ja Wilson, Jackie Young, and Kelsey Plum have accounted for over 75% of the team's points, leaving the remaining players with a mere 90 total points. The team is in a win-now mode and is urgently seeking a player who can provide valuable minutes off the bench, particularly until Gray makes her return. Maloney suggests that acquiring a free agent who can offer reliable playing time may be more beneficial to the Aces' quest for a three-peat championship than Fair's potential.

Fair holds the impressive title of being the third-highest scorer in the history of NCAA women's college basketball. She amassed a remarkable 3,403 points during her collegiate career at both Syracuse and the University at Buffalo.