Aces Secure 12th Consecutive Win with Wilson’s 34-Point Performance

The Las Vegas Aces triumphed over the Atlanta Dream with a score of 81-75 on August 30, 2023, marking their 12th consecutive victory and tying a franchise record. This impressive run has propelled the Aces to second place in the WNBA standings. A’ja Wilson spearheaded the win with a remarkable performance, scoring 34 points, along with 9 rebounds and 4 blocks.

Wilson’s stellar play has been a constant throughout August, where she has showcased her scoring ability consistently. Teammate Jackie Young contributed significantly as well, achieving her second triple-double of the season with 10 points, 10 assists, and 11 rebounds. The Aces are now among the ten teams in WNBA history to record a winning streak of at least twelve games in a single season.

Aces Ties Franchise Record and Historical Milestone

Historically, the Aces have joined the ranks of teams like the 2000 Los Angeles Sparks, who achieved two twelve-game winning streaks during their 28-4 season. Interestingly, the Aces previously had a similar streak in 2012 when they were known as the San Antonio Silver Stars. Current Aces coach Becky Hammon was part of that 2012 team but admitted she did not remember the streak. That season, the Silver Stars finished with a 21-13 record.

Reflecting on her current team’s performance, Hammon noted, “They’re making their presence felt.” Wilson’s scoring prowess this season has led her to an impressive total of 11 games with 30 or more points, tying her career best from last year when she received her third MVP award. The WNBA record for most games scoring 30-plus points in a season stands at 12, a mark set by her teammate Jewell Loyd in 2023 and Maya Moore in 2014.

Wilson’s Remarkable Efficiency and Upcoming Challenges

According to ESPN Research, Wilson holds the WNBA record for the most games scoring 30 or more points while shooting at least 60% from the field. Her performance against the Dream marked her sixth game achieving this efficiency, surpassing the previous record held by Houston’s Cynthia Cooper. Wilson was 13-of-21 from the field during the match, including two crucial three-pointers that shifted the momentum.

In a light-hearted moment, Wilson joked after the game, “Don’t call me Curry,” in reference to NBA sharpshooter Stephen Curry. Her two three-pointers were pivotal, helping the Aces secure a lead after a tied score of 48-48 in the third quarter. Wilson initiated an 8-0 run that set the stage for victory.

As the Aces improved their record to 26-14 this season, they have thrived since the All-Star break, boasting a 15-3 record and finishing 12-1 in August. With only four regular-season games remaining, including three at home, the Aces will not play again until September 4, when they face the first-place Lynx (30-7) in a highly anticipated matchup.

Hammon expressed concern over the team’s fatigue, stating, “This is our eighth game in 15 days; I was very concerned with our legs coming into this game.” Despite the challenge, she praised her team’s defensive efforts, emphasizing that their resilience has been key to their success. “Just really one of our quality team wins tonight: gut-check, resiliency, toughness,” she added.

As the Aces continue their pursuit of a championship, all eyes will be on their upcoming clash with the Lynx, a potential turning point in their remarkable season.