Four-time MVP A’ja Wilson posted a 21-point, 10-rebound double-double and Dana Evans (21 points) and Jewell Loyd (18 points) starred off the bench to lead the Las Vegas Aces to an 89-86 home win over the Phoenix Mercury in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals on Friday evening.
Phoenix led 76-70 with 8:42 remaining in regulation after a DeWanna Bonner tip-in. However, Las Vegas clawed its way back thanks largely to Evans, who hit three of her five three-pointers in the fourth quarter.
Her final three broke an 82-all tie to give the Aces the 85-82 edge with 3:40 remaining.
Wilson hit a two-pointer on Las Vegas’ next possession for the five-point lead. She also climbed up some prestigious lists as well.
However, Las Vegas went cold from there, missing four shots over its next three possessions. Phoenix took advantage, with Alyssa Thomas hitting a pair of buckets to cut the lead to 87-86.
Thomas then went to work on the other end, blocking a Wilson layup and grabbing the loose board. She drove in for a layup, but Jackie Young committed a shooting foul, sending Thomas to the line for two.
Thomas, who has been sensational all year and was once again Friday, missed both free throws. The Aces grabbed the rebound, and Young soon calmly knocked down both free throws after getting fouled with 13.5 seconds left.
Phoenix called a timeout down 89-86, but its last possession did not go well. The Mercury seemingly wanted to get an open look from three for the tie, but the Aces played great perimeter defense. Satou Sabally eventually put up a contested three that was off the mark, and the Aces took the 1-0 series lead.
For the Mercury, Kahleah Copper led the way with 21 points. Thomas had a near-triple double with 15 points (7-of-10 shooting), 10 rebounds and nine assists. Sabally scored 19 points
Game 2 will take place on Sunday at 3 p.m. ET in Las Vegas.
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