The Las Vegas Aces are on a historic run, aiming to become the first WNBA team to win four championships in five seasons. Led by the formidable duo of four-time MVP A'ja Wilson and head coach Becky Hammon, the Aces are a force to be reckoned with. However, their journey has been marked by calculated risks and some questionable decisions, which have both contributed to their success and raised concerns for the future.
The Aces' dynasty began with a series of strategic moves under the leadership of former head coach and president Bill Laimbeer and former general manager Dan Padover. They drafted Wilson, a consensus No.1 overall pick, and then made a bold move in the draft lottery, jumping over teams with better odds to secure their desired players. This strategy paid off with the acquisition of Jackie Young, who has become a five-time All-Star and a key contributor to the team's success.
However, the Aces' leadership has also made some risky decisions. They waived Chennedy Carter, a player who had difficulty staying out of trouble with previous teams, and cut ties with Riquanna Williams after a domestic violence incident. These moves highlight the team's willingness to take chances, but also raise questions about their ability to manage player discipline.
Despite these concerns, the Aces have remained top-heavy and have benefited from the leadership of Hammon and Fargas. They have brought in new talent, such as Nalyssa Smith and Jewell Loyd, and have trusted players like Dana Evans with bigger roles. This has resulted in a magical 17-game winning streak and a return to the WNBA Finals.
The Aces' success has been built on a combination of calculated risks and good fortune. Wilson's durability and injury luck have been critical, as she has only missed six regular season games over the past seven seasons. Hammon's hiring brought a modern approach to WNBA basketball, and her emotional intelligence has helped the team buy in.
However, the Aces' future is not without doubt. Young, a key member of the current big three, is only signed for a one-year max deal. This raises the question of whether she will become the next star to leave, following in the footsteps of Kelsey Plum. The team's scouting of draft picks and international talent has also been inconsistent, with many picks not making it past training camp and a lack of international players on the roster.
Despite these concerns, the Aces remain a force to be reckoned with. They have defied the odds, winning three titles and aiming for a fourth. The team's ability to adapt and make strategic moves has kept them at the top of the WNBA, but their future success will depend on their ability to manage their risks and maintain their dominance.
