The Las Vegas Aces have begun the season sluggishly for the second year in a row. However, they broke a three-game losing skid by defeating Indiana on Sunday. This win was particularly noteworthy because it’s a rarity for the team to find themselves with a record under .500 since relocating to Las Vegas in 2018. The triumph over Caitlin Clark and the Fever was one of their standout performances this season, drawing significant viewership as the third most-watched regular-season WNBA game on ESPN, averaging 1.7 million viewers.
Coach Becky Hammon urges her team towards greater consistency. “Building trust is challenging without consistency. Daily, you need to show up and be the best version of yourself,” Hammon stated. “We’re seeing flashes of promising play, which is optimistic, but then we fall apart, which is unacceptable. Our goal is to consistently deliver a full 40-minute game.” As the Aces prepare for an essential stretch with home games against Connecticut and Washington, followed by a five-game road trip, this period may significantly influence their position heading into the All-Star break.
Hammon is particularly focused on enhancing Jewell Loyd’s offensive contributions, as she is currently averaging 11.4 points per game, the lowest since her rookie year in 2015.
On the other hand, Caitlin Clark has been experiencing a shooting slump recently, hitting only 1-of-17 from beyond the 3-point line over the last two games. Despite this, Clark, a career 35% 3-point shooter known for her deep shots, remains unfazed. “There will be good stretches and not-so-good stretches,” Clark remarked. “It’s frustrating, but some felt good leaving my hand but just didn’t go in.” She maintains confidence in her shooting and intends to make an impact through other facets of the game.
All-Star fan voting recently revealed Clark and Napheesa Collier leading as top vote-getters. Clark’s Fever teammates have also secured spots within the top 10. The voting count has impressed Clark, indicating strong engagement across the league. “The voting seems on pace to set a record compared to last year,” she noted. “This engagement is vital for the league, showing fans’ excitement and the influence their votes can have.” Clark hopes this enthusiasm continues to grow annually.
The latest power poll rankings show Minnesota at the top, with Phoenix climbing to second after a victory over New York. The Liberty follows in third place, with Seattle, Atlanta, Golden State, and Las Vegas trailing behind. Indiana clinches eighth place, with Washington, Los Angeles, and Dallas right after them. Chicago and Connecticut round off the rankings.
Seattle’s Nneka Ogwumike earned Player of the Week honors for the first time this season, averaging a stellar 25.7 points, eight rebounds, and 2.3 steals, playing a crucial role in the team’s three wins last week.
A highlight of the week is the upcoming Chicago versus Los Angeles game on Sunday. The Sparks will retire Candace Parker’s jersey during the event, and she will become the third player to be honored in such a way by the Los Angeles team.