The Las Vegas Aces returned to the WNBA finals after missing out in the 2024 season. A’ja Wilson offers a unique analogy to describe the Las Vegas Aces’ journey back to the WNBA finals. Becky Hammon was also ecstatic, reaching the final and getting a chance to win her third title with the Aces.
The start to the series was perfect for the second-seeded team as they overcame a nine-point deficit to win the opening game. A morale booster win will keep them on top of their opponents, but as per the Aces HC, the side has little work to do and is optimistic about her team delivering.
Becky Hammon With Game 2 Prediction
Back from a tough win over the Indiana Fever, the Las Vegas Aces were against the even bigger and more formidable opponent – the Phoenix Mercury. The Western Conference rivals defeated the 2024 finalists in the last series, showing their capability as top contenders for the championship this year. For the Mercury HC, it was an emotional journey as Nate Tibbetts gave an emotional tribute to his family amid the Phoenix Mercury’s epic WNBA finals berth.
On the hardwood, though, the battle between the two top teams was intense and entertaining for the fans. The Mercury started strong and looked to clinch the first blood, but Hammon’s team overtook the nine-point deficit and took Game 1.
After the game, an interviewer asked the veteran HC about her prediction for Game 2. Hammon jokingly said, “I have a crystal ball at home. I predict our defense will be better.”
Hammon adjusted her defensive play in Game 1 only, which proved to be the massive difference maker. The Aces switched to a zone defense to keep the Mercury out of the paint. “Them getting the ball in the paint, whether it was off the pass or penetration, was really hurting us. It also allowed us to protect Dana a little bit, the zone, so that they couldn’t put her in all the actions,” Hammon detailed her game plan against the Mercury in the press conference.
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The Mercury still had a chance to extend the game, but Thomas’ missed free throws handed the Aces a chance to win the game. The Mercury scored 86 points, which was above their playoff average this season. Better defence will surely allow the Aces to put pressure on Alyssa Thomas and Co. to win the series.
Becky Hammon Lauds Her Bench Performance In Game 1
While the starting lineup struggled to deliver against the Phoenix Mercury’s defense, the bench performed well to clinch the victory. Dana Evans and Jewel Lloyd were instrumental for the side, combining for 39 points in the game. Evena, in particular, played a crucial role in the final stretch of the game.
“It was just a really great time for our bench to come up and have a big game because I think you saw a little bit of fatigue from Jackie and Asia, who kind of carried us through that last Game 5,” Hammon lauded her team.
The Michelob ULTRA Arena will be hosting Game 2 of the series, with Hammon wishing for better defence from her side to take a 2-0 lead.