The Las Vegas Aces Face Early Hurdle, But the Season is Still Bright for the Reigning Champs
Basketball fans across the Las Vegas metro area tuned in with high anticipation to watch the Las Vegas Aces kick off their WNBA title defense Friday night, opening the 2023 season with a heated matchup against the New York Liberty. After last year’s electrifying championship run, the Aces have become the pride of Vegas sports enthusiasts, joining the city’s growing list of powerhouse teams and strengthening our identity as a true sports capital.
But for all their talent and high hopes, the game didn’t quite go the way our team – or its fans – had hoped. The Aces fell to New York, 92-78, in a matchup that not only provided plenty of drama but also highlighted the challenges that lie ahead for the defending champs. As Vegas locals, we’re no strangers to rising to the challenge. From enduring the highs and lows of desert living to turning adversity into opportunity, the city knows what it means to bounce back – and you can bet this loss will only fuel the fire for our Aces.
Las Vegas: Where Champions Are Forged
Watching the Aces play, it's hard not to think about how their journey mirrors Las Vegas itself. Once considered only a hub for casinos and nightlife, our city has transformed into a multi-dimensional metropolis teeming with diversity, creativity, and resilience. Just as the Aces have revolutionized women’s basketball with an incredible roster of talent and a dedicated coaching staff, Las Vegas has redefined itself as a destination for people who value growth and community.
From our bustling homes in Summerlin to the eclectic streets of Downtown, we carry that same spirit of ambition that the Aces brought into Friday night’s game. Facing a highly revamped New York Liberty squad – featuring new additions like Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones – the Aces found themselves facing as much local pride from Brooklyn fans as they enjoy here on home court at the Michelob Ultra Arena.
For us, seeing the Aces hit the hardwood each season is more than entertainment. It’s a reflection of our city’s scrappiness and determination. Alongside teams like the Golden Knights, the Raiders, and even the rebounding UNLV Rebels, they’ve given Vegas residents something to rally behind – a team that takes pride in representing our city’s grit.
Early Setbacks Are Just Lessons
Friday’s loss wasn’t ideal, but let’s not forget this is just the beginning. For most of us living in Las Vegas, resilience is a way of life. The searing summer heat? We handle it. The ups and downs of a growing real-estate market? We adjust. Resilience is what got the Aces to championship glory last year, and it’s what will keep guiding them forward now.
Sure, the absence of key playmaker Chelsea Gray was noticeable. And yes, those 19 turnovers and brief defensive lapses gave the Liberty opportunities to exploit. But even in the face of the loss, there were bright spots. A’ja Wilson – our reigning MVP and the heart of the team – posted a solid 21-point, 9-rebound performance. That third-quarter comeback attempt? It showed flashes of the magic that makes the Aces a true contender.
Coach Becky Hammon, who has already cemented herself as a part of Vegas’ winning culture, emphasized postgame that the focus needs to be on learning from early mistakes. If there’s one thing we know about Vegas teams – and Vegas in general – it’s the ability to come back stronger after setbacks. That’s why tourists flock to our city: It’s a place of reinvention. And the Aces will reinvent their style as needed to keep chasing that championship.
Aces’ Journey, Our Journey
For the fans here in the Vegas Valley, watching the Aces isn’t just about basketball – it’s about belonging to something bigger. Whether you just caught an Aces game last year for the first time or are a longtime supporter who’s followed them since the San Antonio days, this team ties us together. It’s a unifying experience to head over to The Strip, past the Bellagio fountains and Luxor’s shining pyramid, and step into Michelob Ultra Arena amidst a sea of jersey-clad fans.
If you’re new to Vegas or thinking about making the move, know this: This city loves winners, but we love fighters even more. When the Aces step back onto the court for their next game, we’ll be there – cheering, clapping, and ready to embrace whatever they bring. Success in this city isn’t just about glitz and glamour but about perseverance. The Aces embody that, and so do the millions who call this valley home.
So, while Friday night’s loss may sting, keep the faith. We’ve built fountains in the desert; this is just another challenge on the road to greatness. No matter what, we here in Las Vegas will continue to “Raise The Stakes” right alongside our team – because that’s just who we are.
Next time, it’ll be the Aces lighting it up. And we’ll be louder than ever, ready to remind the world why this city thrives under pressure. Stay strong, Vegas – our champs aren't going anywhere.