LAS VEGAS — It’s been a tough go of things for the Aces, there’s no doubt about that. But Wednesday night’s 94-83 victory over the Storm punctuated what was surely the best night of the season for the two-time defending champions.
The Aces vibes were high with the impending return of Chelsea Gray expected. When Gray checked in for the first time this season midway through the first quarter, Michelob Ultra Arena went ballistic for the point guard in what was the loudest moment of the game.
“Just a lot of emotion,” Gray said. “It's been a long time since I've been out on that court, but the fans, they were amazing from the time I came out to warm up to the time I checked into the game.
"It was great. Just a rush and a feeling that I missed a lot.”
Gray quickly went to work, dishing out seven assists in 16 minutes off the bench. One her assists was a signature behind-the-back pass that drew a reaction both from the crowd in person and the fans on social media.
“I think everybody was just super excited for her," coach Becky Hammon said. “She's a leader on our team.
"Chelsea's presence is such a calming factor out there. She gives us some layups, gives us some point paints, and I can draw stuff that I know if there's even a threat of an opening, she's going to get it to them.”
Jackie Young continued her scorching run in the win, pouring in 32 points on 11-of-19 shooting and 8 of 8 from the free-throw line. A’ja Wilson added her 27, nine rebounds and three assists.
The Aces are sitting in the league’s fifth place spot, which would set them up for a series with the Storm if the season were to end today. They’ve gone 5-5 in their last 10 games and are 7-6 overall.
