Las Vegas Aces Clinch 2025 WNBA Championship in a Finals Sweep
The Las Vegas Aces completed a dominant 2025 campaign by sweeping the Phoenix Mercury in the Finals, sealing the championship with a 97-86 victory. It marks the Aces’ third title in four seasons, underscoring a growing dynasty that has reshaped the landscape of women’s basketball. Led by league MVP A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas seized control of the series early and never relinquished it, earning their place among the WNBA’s all-time great teams.
A’ja Wilson Stars as the League’s MVP and Finals MVP
Wilson’s performance in the 2025 season was nothing short of historic. The 29-year-old forward poured in 31 points and grabbed nine rebounds in the title-clinching game, capping a season that earned her a record fourth regular-season MVP. She also claimed her second Finals MVP honor, becoming the first player in WNBA history to win MVP, FMVP and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season. Her leadership carried the Aces through a grueling schedule and into the championship spotlight.
History-Making Moments and Emotional Celebrations
With the trophy hoisted, Wilson shared an emotional moment with her partner, Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo, in a scene that highlighted how far the team has come. “We worked our butts off to get to this point. And now it’s time to have some fun,” Wilson told ESPN. “This is not about X’s and O’s. This is from what’s inside.”
Resilience in the Finals: Aces Survive a Phoenix Push
The Finals narrative mirrored the drama of Game 3, with Phoenix refusing to roll over. A 16-point halftime deficit gave way to a third-quarter push, as Kahleah Copper scored 12 of her 30 points in the period to help narrow the gap. However, Las Vegas answered with sustained defense and timely offense to keep the Mercury at bay. Copper’s late-game foul sent a tense moment into the endgame, but the Aces maintained control through the final minutes.
Coaching, Depth, and the Road to Victory
Head coach Becky Hammon saw her squad navigate adversity all season, including a challenging start before finishing with a 16-game winning streak to close the regular season. Guard Chelsea Gray, who has been a steadying force all year, spoke to ESPN about the team’s journey after the game. “This team has been through hell and back. What a run. Everyone stepped up. We’ve got the best player in the world in A’ja Wilson. We’re champions.”
Phoenix Mercury: A Season of What-Ifs
For Phoenix, the loss marks the second Finals defeat in five years. The team faced injuries and missing contributions in the clinching game, including Satou Sabally’ s concussion and Alyssa Thomas’s shoulder issue. Yet coach Nate Tibbetts defended his team’s performance, labeling the officiating decisions during the pivotal moments as a point of contention. The Mercury will look to rebuild around young talent and the legacy of a franchise with three championships in its history.
Looking Ahead: What This Dynasty Means for the WNBA
The Aces’ repeat success in 2025 not only solidifies Wilson’s era of dominance but also signals a new standard for franchise consistency in the league. With a core group cultivated through smart acquisitions, development, and exceptional on-court chemistry, Las Vegas has become a model for sustained excellence. Fans can expect continued high-level competition as the league eyes a future where dynasties aren’t just possible but expected.
Key Takeaways
- Aces sweep the Finals 2025, claiming their third title in four years.
- A’ja Wilson becomes the first player to win MVP, FMVP, and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season.
- Becky Hammon’s leadership and Chelsea Gray’s clutch play anchor Las Vegas’ championship run.
- Phoenix’s resilience ends in heartbreak, setting the stage for a refreshed roster in the next season.
