The two factors that led to the Aces’ victory in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals

Game 1 Highlights: Las Vegas Aces vs. Phoenix Mercury

As Game 1 approached, many anticipated that the clash between the Las Vegas Aces and Phoenix Mercury would hinge on the performance of both teams’ key players.

For the Aces, A’ja Wilson, Jackie Young, and Chelsea Gray had been pivotal throughout the playoffs. Over on the Mercury’s side, the trio of Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, and Kelsey Plum had stepped up, playing critical roles as they advanced towards the finals.

However, the spotlight on Friday night fell on Jewell Loyd and Dana Evans, who had a relatively modest scoring average of just over seven points during the playoffs.

Before the game, Loyd was averaging 7.3 points, while Evans was at 7.4 points.

In Game 1 itself, the duo combined for a remarkable 39 points with efficient shooting, going 16 for 29. Loyd shone with 18 points and four rebounds, while Evans contributed 21 points, four steals, and three assists.

In the fourth quarter, the two scored 12 points between them, with Evans nailing three three-pointers in the third. The Aces pulled ahead of the Mercury in the final minutes, clinching an 89-86 victory.

A’ja Wilson remarked that Evans and Loyd’s outstanding performances were no surprise, highlighting their relentless work ethic. “These two in particular are among the hardest workers I see every day,” she said. “So, it’s not unexpected in games like these.”

Mercury’s Big Three Perform Well, Yet Fall Short

Going into the finals, it appeared that the series could be influenced by how well each team’s Big Three performed. Nonetheless, the Mercury dropped Game 1 despite having what many considered a more formidable trio.

Alyssa Thomas had a solid showing with 15 points on 7-of-10 shooting, along with 10 rebounds and nine assists. Satou Sabally contributed 19 points, four assists, and four rebounds, while Kelsey Plum led the trio with 21 points, including five three-pointers in the first half.

Still, it seemed that each member of the Mercury’s Big Three left some opportunities unrealized.

For instance, Thomas missed two crucial free throws when the Mercury led by one with just 24.6 seconds remaining. Plum, who had a strong first half, managed only two points after halftime. Furthermore, Sabally’s fifth foul, along with a technical foul in the fourth quarter, proved to be pivotal in shifting momentum.

On the Aces’ side, Jackie Young made two important free throws but had a tough night overall, finishing with just 10 points on a dismal 3-of-13 shooting. Meanwhile, Chelsea Gray contributed only eight points.

A’ja Wilson, typically a standout with an average of 26 points this playoff season, had a quieter game by those standards, recording 21 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Nevertheless, she made a key jumper during a critical stretch that helped the Aces secure a five-point lead.

Ultimately, it was the backup guards for the Aces who stole the show. Loyd showcased her scoring ability, reminding everyone of her prowess from two seasons ago, and Evans proved her worth on such a grand stage.

“They’re crucial for us,” Wilson said post-game. “I’ve said many times, Dana is our battery. She allows us to play at a different rhythm. I told her – we’ll go as she goes.”