Las Vegas Aces won their third WNBA championship in four years under coach Becky Hammon, who praised the evolution of women's basketball, highlighting players like Caitlin Clark and others as part of the league's rising talent and quality.
Becky Hammon criticized the excessive physicality in the WNBA playoff game between the Las Vegas Aces and Indiana Fever, calling it out as out of control and suggesting stricter officiating in upcoming games, after the Aces' 90-68 victory that evened the series.
Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve cleverly responded to Becky Hammon's dismissive comments about the co-Defensive Player of the Year award, highlighting her pride in Alanna Smith's achievement and questioning the media's defensive expertise. The award was shared by Smith and A'ja Wilson, with Reeve's witty remark adding to the playoff drama.
Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon commented on how the Indiana Fever's offense changes without star guard Caitlin Clark, who is sidelined with a groin injury. Hammon noted that the Fever's ball movement and aggression increase without Clark, who demands a different defensive approach, but the team remains challenging to guard due to their movement and ball distribution. The Fever are playing it safe with Clark's return to ensure her long-term health.
Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon criticized her team's poor performance after an 81-54 loss to the Indiana Fever, calling it one of the worst games she's seen due to lack of effort, defense, and physicality, despite the Fever missing key player Caitlin Clark.
Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon acknowledged that Caitlin Clark's absence from the Indiana Fever significantly impacts the team's dynamics, but emphasized the importance of preparing for the game despite her being out, recognizing the opportunity for other players to step up.
Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon criticized WNBA referees for allowing excessive physicality in defending Caitlin Clark, suggesting that the league should intervene to make the game fairer and reduce fouling, while praising Clark's talent.
WNBA star Caitlin Clark has received support from Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon amid debates over race and her popularity, with Hammon urging people to stop the negative narratives. A'ja Wilson, who previously highlighted racial issues in the league, also defended Clark, emphasizing her growth as a rookie. Clark, focused on her game, led the Indiana Fever to their first win with crucial plays.
Caitlin Clark, a standout rookie for the Indiana Fever, is focused on basketball despite discussions about her impact on the WNBA's growth. Amid comments from LeBron James, Charles Barkley, and Becky Hammon, Clark emphasizes her commitment to improving her team, which is currently 0-5. She is averaging impressive stats and aims to help her team secure their first win.
Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon and star A'ja Wilson defended WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark against claims of animosity from other players, emphasizing that the league supports her. This follows comments from LeBron James and Charles Barkley praising Clark's impact on the WNBA, with Barkley criticizing players for not appreciating her contributions. Hammon dismissed the negative narrative and urged people to back off, highlighting Clark's youth and the pressure she faces.
The Las Vegas Aces dominated the New York Liberty 104-76 in Game 2 of the WNBA Finals, putting them one win away from winning back-to-back championships. A'ja Wilson led the Aces with 26 points and 15 rebounds, while Chelsea Gray contributed 14 points and 11 assists. The Aces had a historic start, outscoring the Liberty 38-19 in the first quarter, and maintained their lead throughout the game. The Liberty's starters struggled, with Jonquel Jones being the only standout performer. The series now shifts to New York for Game 3.
The Las Vegas Aces and New York Liberty are set to face off in the WNBA Finals, marking the first time since 2002 that the Liberty have reached the championship. Both teams have undergone significant transformations, with improved ownership, strong coaching hires, and key player acquisitions. The Aces, led by coach Becky Hammon, won their first title last year, while the Liberty, coached by Sandy Brondello, have assembled a "superteam" featuring two-time MVP Breanna Stewart. The matchup between these two franchises represents a long-awaited rivalry and a chance for New York to claim its first basketball title since 1973.
The Las Vegas Aces received their 2022 WNBA championship rings, with former player Dearica Hamby also receiving a ring despite being traded to the Los Angeles Sparks in January. Hamby had criticized the Aces for mistreating her during her pregnancy and not following through on promises made to her. The WNBA imposed penalties on head coach Becky Hammon and the Aces for violating the league's Respect in the Workplace policy and impermissible player benefits regarding Hamby. The Aces also unveiled their championship banner and retired Becky Hammon's No. 25 jersey.
The Las Vegas Aces set a WNBA record for margin of victory in a season opener with their 105-64 win over the Seattle Storm, despite head coach Becky Hammon serving a two-game suspension. Acting coach Tyler Marsh led the team to victory, with all five starters scoring double-figures. The Aces celebrated Marsh's win by dousing him with water in the locker room. The team is aiming to repeat as champions, with the addition of two-time MVP Candace Parker and veteran starter Alysha Clark.
The Las Vegas Aces begin their quest to repeat as WNBA champions, but the suspension of coach Becky Hammon and the loss of a first-round draft pick due to dealings with Dearica Hamby have overshadowed the start of the season. The Aces will need to maintain chemistry, continue to be a frustrating team to guard, flex defensive versatility, put last year in the rearview mirror, and keep things in perspective to repeat as champions.