Las Vegas WNBA Profile: Five things you need to know

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basketball.com.au

Aces' Dominant Dynasty, Back-to-Back Champions

First WNBA team to win back-to-back championships since 2001-2002
Set WNBA record for most regular season wins (34) in 2023
Won 2022 WNBA Commissioner's Cup and two consecutive WNBA Championships
Utah Starzz (1997–2002), San Antonio Silver Stars (2003–2013San Antonio Stars2014–2017Las Vegas Aces2018–present

Chelsea Gray #12 and A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces react after Gray hit a 3-pointer against the New York Liberty in the third quarter of Game Three of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 04, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Aces defeated the Liberty 95-81. Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

The Las Vegas Aces have quickly established themselves as one of the WNBA's most dominant franchises, dominating the league with their high-powered offense and star-studded roster.

Overview

The Las Vegas Aces have become a powerhouse in the WNBA, achieving unprecedented success in a short period. Since relocating to Las Vegas in 2018, the franchise has undergone a remarkable transformation, culminating in back-to-back WNBA championships in 2022 and 2023. Under the ownership of Mark Davis and the coaching of Becky Hammon, the Aces have assembled a roster of elite talent, including league MVP A'ja Wilson, and have set new standards for excellence in the WNBA.

Australians who have played for the Las Vegas Aces

Cayla George: Born in Mount Barker, South Australia, George signed with the Aces in February 2023. She played a pivotal role in the team's 2023 WNBA Championship victory, notably starting in the title-clinching Game 4 of the Finals and contributing 11 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals. George's versatility and experience have been valuable assets to the Aces.

Liz Cambage: Hailing from Melbourne, Victoria, Cambage joined the Aces in 2019 after a trade from the Dallas Wings. During her tenure, she was a dominant force in the paint, earning WNBA All-Star honors. Cambage parted ways with the Aces in 2021.

Team History

The Aces' journey to dominance began with their relocation from San Antonio to Las Vegas in 2018. The move coincided with a strategic rebuild, starting with the selection of A'ja Wilson as the first overall pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft. The team steadily improved, reaching the WNBA Finals in 2020 before losing to the Seattle Storm.

The turning point came in 2022 when Becky Hammon took over as head coach. Hammon's innovative offensive system, combined with the team's exceptional talent, led to immediate success. The Aces won their first WNBA championship in 2022, defeating the Connecticut Sun in four games.

The Aces have earned their place among the greatest teams in WNBA history because of their dominance and record-breaking performances. Their back-to-back championships in 2022 and 2023 mark the first time a team has achieved this feat since the Los Angeles Sparks in 2001-2002.

In 2023, the Aces set a new WNBA record for most regular season wins with 34, surpassing the previous record of 29. Their high-powered offense, led by A'ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, and Chelsea Gray, has set new standards for scoring efficiency and team play.

The Aces' success extends beyond the court. They have become a model franchise, with state-of-the-art facilities, strong community engagement, and a commitment to growing the women's game. Their ability to sell out season tickets for the 2024 season, a first in WNBA history, demonstrates their impact on the sport's popularity.

A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces fights for possession against Courtney Vandersloot #22, Breanna Stewart #30 and Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty in the fourth quarter of Game Four of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 06, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Liberty defeated the Aces 76-62 to win the series three games to one. Photo: Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Five Fast Facts

The Aces won the WNBA Commissioner's Cup in 2022, adding to their championship pedigree
A'ja Wilson won the WNBA MVP award in both 2022 and 2023, anchoring the Aces' success
The team's new training facility, completed in 2023, is the first built solely for a WNBA team
Former NFL quarterback Tom Brady purchased a minority stake in the team in 2023
The Aces' 2023 championship run included a perfect 6-0 record in the playoffs

Team Highlights Timeline

2018: Relocated to Las Vegas and drafted A'ja Wilson with the first overall pick

2020: Reached their first WNBA Finals, losing to the Seattle Storm

2021: Mark Davis purchases the team, investing in its future success

2022: Becky Hammon hired as head coach; Aces win first WNBA Championship

2023: Set WNBA record with 34 regular season wins; win second consecutive WNBA Championship

2024: Sell out season tickets, a first in WNBA history

The Las Vegas Aces have quickly risen to become one of the most dominant teams in WNBA history. Their back-to-back championships, record-breaking performances, and innovative approach to the game have set new standards for excellence in women's basketball. With a strong foundation of talent, leadership, and fan support, the Aces are poised to continue their dynasty for years to come, solidifying their place among the greatest teams the WNBA has ever seen.