The Las Vegas Aces faced unexpected resistance from the Indiana Fever, who had several key players sidelined, including Kelsey Mitchell due to leg cramping during Game 5. Despite the challenges, the Aces managed to secure a hard-fought 107-98 overtime victory, led by A’ja Wilson’s 35 points and Jackie Young’s 32 points, making them the first teammates to score over 30 points in a playoff game.
After a 16-game winning streak to close the regular season, the Aces faced tough competition from Seattle in the first round and then the resilient Indiana Fever. The Aces, seeded second and previous champions in 2022 and 2023, will now face the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA Finals, starting with Game 1 on Friday.
The Fever, plagued by injuries to key players like Mitchell, Caitlin Clark, and Sophie Cunningham, put up a valiant fight under coach Stephanie White’s guidance, nearly reaching their first Finals appearance since 2015. Despite the loss, White praised her team’s resilience and unity, highlighting their determination to overcome adversity.
Both teams displayed impressive performances, with six Fever players reaching double digits in scoring, including Odyssey Sims and Natasha Howard. The Aces relied heavily on Wilson and Young, with Chelsea Gray contributing 17 points, including crucial plays in overtime.
The game was a back-and-forth battle, with the Fever refusing to back down even after Mitchell’s injury, forcing the Aces into overtime. The Aces ultimately prevailed, with coach Becky Hammon acknowledging the Fever’s tenacity and resilience throughout the game.
The thrilling matchup showcased the competitive spirit of both teams, setting the stage for an exciting WNBA Finals series between the Aces and the Mercury.