The Las Vegas Aces are now just a step away from returning to the WNBA Finals, thanks in large part to the steady brilliance of Jackie Young. In a commanding performance, Young delivered 25 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists on 9-of-14 shooting, propelling the defending champions past the Indiana Fever. With this victory, the Aces take a commanding lead in the series, needing only one more win to clinch another trip to the Finals.
Jackie Young Takes Control
Young’s night was a testament to her efficiency and composure under playoff pressure. Scoring 25 points on just 14 field goal attempts, she picked her spots perfectly, attacking the basket, knocking down jump shots, and making plays for her teammates when the defense collapsed. Her ability to balance scoring with playmaking has been central to the Aces’ postseason run.
For Las Vegas, which already features superstars like A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum, Young’s emergence as a consistent playoff force adds another dimension. Her confidence has grown each year, and this performance reinforced her reputation as one of the league’s most dependable guards.
NaLyssa Smith Battles in Defeat
Despite the Fever’s struggles, forward NaLyssa Smith gave a strong account of herself. She finished with 16 points, 4 rebounds, and an impressive 4 blocks while shooting 8-of-13 from the field. Smith’s defensive energy and efficient scoring provided the Fever with a spark, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the balanced attack of the Aces.
The Aces’ Depth Shows Again
What separates the Aces from many opponents is their ability to win in multiple ways. While Wilson’s scoring often draws headlines, Las Vegas has leaned on Young, Plum, and Chelsea Gray at different points throughout the postseason. This flexibility forces defenses to pick their poison, and against Indiana, it was Young who punished them repeatedly.
The Aces also showed poise in key moments, turning defensive stops into transition buckets and capitalizing on Indiana’s turnovers. Their championship experience was evident, as they closed quarters with precision and never allowed the Fever to mount sustained momentum.
One Win Away
With this victory, Las Vegas now sits one win away from clinching back-to-back Finals appearances. Head coach Becky Hammon has consistently stressed the importance of focus and discipline, and her players continue to embody that mindset.
If the Aces advance, they will have the chance to defend their title and further solidify their status as one of the WNBA’s modern dynasties. For Jackie Young, this game may stand as a defining moment in her rise as a playoff star—a reminder that in Las Vegas, excellence is shared across the roster.
What Comes Next
The Fever will face elimination in the next matchup, relying on young stars like Caitlin Clark and NaLyssa Smith to extend the series. For the Aces, however, momentum is firmly on their side. One more complete performance could seal another Finals berth and bring them closer to a repeat championship.
