A’ja Wilson led the way with 27 points and eight rebounds, while Jackie Young contributed 23 points as the Las Vegas Aces secured a 93-73 victory over the Toronto Tempo. Young also impressed with eight assists and no turnovers, with Chelsea Gray adding 11 points to the scoreboard. This game marked the Aces’ first appearance without NaLyssa Smith, who was sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a left leg injury sustained in a previous game against Toronto.
Isabelle Harrison tallied 15 points for Toronto, with Laura Juskaite adding 14, Kia Nurse scoring 12, and Kiki Rice along with reserve player Kiana Williams each contributing 10 points. The win on Friday allowed the Aces (27-13) to maintain a one-game lead for the third spot in the WNBA playoff standings, staying ahead of Indiana (26-14) who secured a 111-91 victory over Connecticut.
Jackie Young’s 3-pointer broke an early tie, propelling Las Vegas to maintain the lead throughout the game. The Aces established a strong start, finishing the first quarter ahead 27-17, shooting 50% from the field including 6-of-12 from beyond the arc. Toronto struggled with nine turnovers in the opening quarter.
Las Vegas continued their impressive performance in the second quarter, building a substantial 56-39 halftime lead despite a slight dip in their 3-point shooting accuracy. Toronto accumulated 12 personal fouls in the first half, allowing the Aces to capitalize by converting 13 of 14 free throws.
In the next games, the Tempo will face the Phoenix Mercury, while the Aces are set to take on the Seattle Storm on Thursday, September 17.
