Las Vegas Establishes a New WNBA Dynasty
The Las Vegas Aces cemented their status as the WNBA’s latest dynasty by sweeping the Phoenix Mercury in the 2025 Finals, sealing a 97-86 victory to clinch the championship. This is Las Vegas’ third title in four seasons, a run that has solidified their place at the top of the league and redefined what sustained success looks like in women’s basketball.
A’ja Wilson: A Historic Season Sealed in Gold
All eyes were on A’ja Wilson, and the superstar didn’t disappoint. The 29-year-old forward poured in 31 points and grabbed nine rebounds, adding yet another ring to her ever-growing collection. Wilson was named Finals MVP for the second time in her career and, in a season already rich with achievement, became the first player in WNBA history to win MVP, Finals MVP, and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season. Her performance and leadership anchored Las Vegas through a challenging playoff run and a grueling start to the season that saw the Aces rebound to win 16 of their final 16 regular-season games.
Turning a Tight Final into a Comfortable Victory
Friday’s game was a reminder that this Aces team is built for pressure. After a 16-point halftime deficit, Phoenix clawed back in the third period, with Kahleah Copper scoring 12 of her 30 points to keep the Mercury in striking distance. Yet Las Vegas found the necessary answers late, using their experience and elite execution to push the lead back into double digits and close things out in the fourth quarter. The Mercury fought to the end, with Copper and company showing resilience that has become a hallmark of this series.
Adversity as a Rallying Cry
Coaches and players faced moments of high tension. In a pivotal sequence, Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts was ejected after a double technical for arguing a call on guard Monique Akoa Makani, a moment that underscored the emotional stakes of a winner-take-all game. Copper’s candid reflections after the game highlighted the intensity across the court, while Aces guard Chelsea Gray credited the team’s grind and resolve for carrying them through a tough season and into glory.
From a Rocky Start to a Championship Finish
The 2025 season began with a 14-14 record for Las Vegas, but the resilience and depth of their roster carried them through a demanding stretch. By season’s end, the Aces had reeled off a historic run that culminated in the title, with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert receiving boos from Phoenix fans and team owner Mark Davis lifting the trophy on the court, signaling a new era for Las Vegas basketball.
What This Means for the WNBA
The Aces’ victory marks more than a trophy lift; it signals a sustained period of excellence that could redefine how dynasties are built in the league. With Wilson at the forefront, complemented by a supporting cast that includes Chelsea Gray and a deep roster, Las Vegas has established a blueprint for sustained playoff success and postseason poise. For Phoenix, a franchise with a storied history, the loss is painful but also a sign of their resilience as they regroup for future title runs.
Postgame Reflections
Wilson’s embrace with her partner, Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo, captured the personal joy behind the professional triumph. “We worked our butts off to get to this point. And now it’s time to have some fun,” she said, attributing their success to inner strength and faith. The appetite for more is obvious as Las Vegas continues to push toward another potential dynasty chapter, while Phoenix will look to learn and come back stronger in the years ahead.
