Las Vegas Aces Win Game 1 In The WNBA Playoffs
The Las Vegas Aces got more of a test than they were expecting from the Phoenix Mercury in Game 1 of their first-round series on Wednesday night, but they ultimately pulled away in the fourth quarter for a 79-63 win. Neither team could get anything going on the offensive end for much of the game and the shorthanded Mercury were able to hang around in such a low scoring game. Neither team broke double figures in the third quarter and the Aces led by just two early in the fourth. It seems as though the Aces played to the beat of the Mercury. Phoenix have not beaten the Aces all season and perhaps the Aces feel like they are unchallenged. Kelsey Plum had 22 pts, Chelsea Gray scored nine of her 17 points in the 4th quarter to get the “W” in the opening round of the WNBA playoffs.
Las Vegas created some separation with a five point possession midway through the fourth quarter for a 60-51 lead. Gray was fouled on a drive to the basket and the refs upgraded the call to a flagrant on Megan Gustafson. Gray made both free throws and followed with a 3 pointer. Jackie Young added 16 pts for Las Vegas which host Phoenix on Saturday in game 2 of the best of 3 series. A’ja Wilson had only 8 pts but was able to crash the boards with 12 rebounds and Kiah Stokes also had 8 pts with 13 boards.
No. 8 seed Phoenix was without stars Diana Taurasi and Skylar Diggins-Smith for personal reasons, and the Mercury lost another starter in the third quarter. Shey Peddy needed to be carried off the floor with 2:03 remaining in the third after a non-contact injury. Peddy’s teammates were visibly emotional as Peddy went to the locker room with a towel covering her face. As much as I love my Aces…I don’t ever wish for an injury on any player. Praying for a healthy recovery for Peddy. But in the meantime, Lets take it up a few notches Aces and Lets Go!
