Tag: Las Vegas Aces – English

  • Angel Reese shatters WNBA rebounding records, but still gets mocked by haters

    Angel Reese shatters WNBA rebounding records, but still gets mocked by haters

    Angel Reese has been dominating the boards in her rookie WNBA season, but some critics think she needs to start spreading the love on the court.

    In a nail-biter between the Chicago Sky and the Las Vegas Aces on Friday night, Reese put up 12 points and snatched a jaw-dropping 22 rebounds. But here’s the kicker-those 22 rebounds etched her name in the WNBA history books, making her the only player ever to pull down 20 or more rebounds in three straight games. The catch? She achieved this by grabbing four consecutive offensive rebounds on her own missed shots late in the fourth quarter. Yeah, you read that right-she grabbed four boards off her own misses!

    But not everyone is throwing confetti for her rebounding prowess. Instead, the sequence has sparked some serious side-eye from fans and analysts alike.

    Reese did eventually get to the charity stripe, but what’s raising eyebrows is that she had a teammate chilling at the three-point line, wide open, during that wild rebounding spree. This isn’t the first time Reese has been laser-focused on the basket while her teammates are left hanging on the perimeter. Whether she’s padding her rebound stats intentionally or not, that’s what some are saying.

    Chasing records or sacrificing team play?

    It’s clear that Reese knows how to secure the boards-her 22 double-doubles this season have already tied her with Tina Charles for the most by a rookie in WNBA history. But is her rebounding blitz coming at the expense of her team’s overall play? That’s the burning question.

    Angel Reese and teammates dazzle in a friendly competition from half court

    With 11 games still on the slate, Reese has a prime opportunity to shatter Charles’ record. The real challenge might be finding the balance between personal accolades and team success.

    Reese’s rebounding record is nothing short of phenomenal, but the chatter around her playing style isn’t going away anytime soon. Will she adjust and start dishing out those dimes, or will she continue to crash the boards with reckless abandon?



    Source link

  • Angel Reese disregards heavy criticism from fans about her “fake” double-double streak

    Angel Reese disregards heavy criticism from fans about her “fake” double-double streak

    The Chicago Sky suffered a painful loss on Sunday, falling to the Las Vegas Aces on a buzzer-beater courtesy of A’ja Wilson. The only silver lining for the Sky was Angel Reese bringing down 22 rebounds, marking the third straight game in which she’s grabbed at least 20. She’s the only WNBA player in history to accomplish that.

    Despite the impressive string of performances to continue a fantastic rookie season, Reese continues to garner criticism from fans. The reason? Her low field goal percentage, which in turn leads to a lot of offensive rebounds.

    Angel Reese shocks reporter with her honest political opinion on 2024 election – VIDEO

    Fans are using it as a way to discredit her big-time rebounding performances.

    Angel Reese responds to haters following Sky’s loss to Aces

    Reese absolutely deserves credit for her ability to rebound, both offensively and defensively. She plays a position where that is arguably her main responsibility. She may be getting a lot of offensive rebounds because she misses, but she’s still boxing out and getting those rebounds, which instead would be going to the other team.

    Reese responded to the criticism in classic fashion.

    The Sky have lost three straight games and are on the edge of the WNBA playoff picture. They play the Washington Mystics next.



    Source link

  • A'ja Wilson calls out WBNA officials BLASTING them for ridiculous treatment through the season

    A'ja Wilson calls out WBNA officials BLASTING them for ridiculous treatment through the season

    A’ja Wilson unleashed her frustrations, no longer holding back on what she truly thinks about how things are run in the WNBA.

    The defending champions Aces are not having the season they’ve expected, so tensions were tunning high. A’Ja then called out referees for looking down on them and made it clear that her voice matters with a bold statement in front of the entire arena.

    After a tense game, WNBA MVP frontrunner A’ja Wilson didn’t hold back, voicing her frustrations with the officiating not just in the game but throughout the entire season. Although her comments were brief, they made a strong impact, highlighting ongoing concerns that she and other top players have with the way games are being called.

    A’ja got it all off her chest

    Wilson’s candid remarks underscored a broader issue within the league, touching on the need for everyone involved-players, officials, and coaches-to step up their game. Even as she called out the problems, Wilson acknowledged areas where she and her team could improve, showing her commitment to both personal and team growth.

    But Wilson didn’t stop at just talking; she let her performance speak volumes as well. In a game against Chicago, where she struggled from the field, Wilson still managed to put up 20 points and grab 18 rebounds, capping off her night with a thrilling game-winner at the buzzer.

    Her clutch performance not only solidified her MVP case but also proved that she’s a force to be reckoned with, both on and off the court. Las Vegas may have edged out Chicago with a 77-75 victory on Sunday, but the Aces are grappling with deeper issues with officiating that could easily spill over into the postseason.



    Source link

  • A'ja Wilson gets ignored by Bam Adebayo when a fan attempts to record them exiting a shopping mall

    A'ja Wilson gets ignored by Bam Adebayo when a fan attempts to record them exiting a shopping mall

    The recent interaction between Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson and Miami Heat player Bam Adebayo has caused a stir on social media, especially after a viral incident in which a fan attempted to record the Team USA stars leaving a shopping mall in Paris with an unexpected reaction from Adebayo.

    In the video, Adebayo is seen rushing out of a shopping mall in Paris clearly avoiding the camera, but trying to make it “very normal” looking to go unnoticed, while Wilson follows behind calmly. The two get into the same car on the Avenue des Champs Elysees in France.

    This unexpected reaction from Bam has sparked speculation about a possible relationship between the two, with some suggesting they are trying to keep their private lives out of the public eye.

    A’ja Wilson, a star in the WNBA, led Team USA in the women’s basketball final at the Paris 2024 Olympics. With a stellar performance of 21 points, 13 rebounds, one steal and four blocks, Wilson led her team to a tight 67-66 victory over France and was named tournament MVP with impressive averages of 18.7 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.7 blocks.

    On Sunday, NBA stars including LeBron James and Derrick White rallied to support Team USA, but it was the special handshake between Wilson and Adebayo that caught the fans’ attention.

    Adebayo also celebrated his own Olympic gold medal with the men’s basketball team.

    There has been no official confirmation about a possible romance between the two Team USA athletes. However, speculation persists, with many fans seeing their relationship as more than just a friendship.



    Source link

  • Kelsey Plum's bold prediction: A'ja Wilson set to win MVP unanimously!

    Kelsey Plum's bold prediction: A'ja Wilson set to win MVP unanimously!

    A’ja Wilson is having one of the best seasons of her career. The Las Vegas Aces center is the pillar of her team’s offense, and her defensive contribution has been essential for the 11-5 record they have so far. Her performance is already earning her recognition, and her teammate Kelsey Plum has no doubt that she will receive even more.

    In 16 games this season, Wilson is averaging 27 points, 11 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 2.5 blocks, and 1.9 steals. For her career, the South Carolina University product is averaging 20.5 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.9 blocks, and 1.1 steals.

    In her career, the Aces center has won every possible accolade. She was named WNBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the 2020 and 2022 seasons, was the 2023 Finals MVP, won the 2022 and 2023 championships, has been named an All-Star six times, and was Rookie of the Year in 2018.

    After a superb performance Tuesday night against Caitlin Clark’s Indiana Fever, in which Wilson once again shattered her own career averages, Kelsey Plum believed she is on track to be the undisputed regular season MVP for the third time.

    It will be a unanimous decision: Plum

    In the press conference following the 88-69 victory over the Fever, Plum made Wilson’s case for this season’s MVP. “Just another night at the office, like, we take it for granted. But we’re watching one of the greatest players of all time in front of our eyes…” she said.

    She admitted that Wilson has fans and media so accustomed to her big performances that even the 28 points she scored Tuesday against Indiana seem normal. However, she explained that reaching that number consistently “is crazy.”

    Furthermore, the Aces guard assured that Wilson will have no competition to obtain the award once again. “It’s a unanimous vote this year [for her as MVP], you feel me? Just saying,” she stated.

    What’s next for Wilson and the Aces

    With two-thirds of the regular season still ahead, Wilson, Plum, and the Aces still have many challenges waiting for them, starting tonight. After the game against Indiana, they will host the Washington Mystics at the Mandalay Bay Events Center.

    On Friday, they will travel to Los Angeles to face the Sparks, and on Sunday, they will return home to host the Dallas Wings. The following week will be complicated for the team with visits to the Seattle Storm, the Atlanta Dream, and the Mystics, but then they will host the Chicago Sky, the New York Liberty, and the Sparks.

    The road is still long, however, Wilson has proven time and time again that she has the quality and resilience to not only take her team to the top but to pick up some individual accolades in the process.



    Source link

  • Caitlin Clark's Iowa coach addresses Kate Martin clash: It is amazing

    Caitlin Clark's Iowa coach addresses Kate Martin clash: It is amazing

    Former Iowa Hawkeyes coach Lisa Bluder has spoken with immense pride at seeing Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin facing off against one another in the WNBA.

    Clark and Martin were teammates for the Hawkeyes last season and now they are playing for the Indiana Fever and the Las Vegas Aces respectively.

    They became good friends on and off the court whilst at Iowa together, often being labelled as best friends.

    Fan support makes Caitlin Clark feel at home despite away win

    Bluder’s pride

    Perhaps the person with the most pride and happiness at seeing Clark and Martin on the court together was their former coach, Bluder. She was in attendance at the game.

    “It is amazing. You get to see your player achieve their dreams that they’ve had forever. It’s so gratifying, this is exactly what you want as a coach is for them to reach their dream in whatever it is,” said Bluder, via Dice City Sports on X.

    The player who stole the show during the match was A’ja Wilson of the Aces.

    Many regard Wilson as the best player currently in the WNBA and she racked up 29 points and 15 rebounds to lead the Las Vegas Aces to a 99-80 win over the Indiana Fever.

    Clark scored eight points on 2-of-8 shooting (2 of 5 from the 3-point line) and had seven assists and five rebounds to go with six turnovers. That is her lowest return in a pro game, having previously averaged 16.7 points.

    Perhaps in an effort to protect her from tough questions, Clark was not made available to the media after the defeat.



    Source link

  • A'ja Wilson's Nike deal ignites apparel controversy at South Carolina

    A'ja Wilson's Nike deal ignites apparel controversy at South Carolina

    Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson has inked a deal with Nike for her own signature shoe. This announcement comes on the heels of Nike’s recent partnership with WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark, sparking questions about why Wilson, a seasoned player with multiple accolades, hadn’t secured such a deal sooner.

    A’ja Wilson, the first overall pick in the 2018 WNBA draft, has an impressive resume that includes two league MVP titles, a Finals MVP, two WNBA championships, two Defensive Player of the Year awards, and five All-Star honors. Her new partnership with Nike marks a significant milestone in her career and brings attention to the apparel affiliations at the University of South Carolina, Wilson’s alma mater.

    Gamecocks alumni push for Nike switch following A’ja Wilson’s endorsement deal

    The University of South Carolina, a prominent client of Under Armour, faces a branding debate as Wilson’s deal with Nike has reignited discussions about the university’s athletic apparel contract. In 2016, the university extended its partnership with Under Armour for ten years, a decision that was met with mixed reactions from the community, some of whom expressed a preference for Nike.

    The contract with Under Armour is due to expire in 2026, and former NBA player Sindarius Thornwell, a fellow University of South Carolina alumnus, has publicly supported the idea of switching to Nike. Thornwell, known for his pivotal role in the Gamecocks’ 2017 Final Four run, reflects a segment of the fanbase that favors Nike over Under Armour.

    As the expiration of the current apparel deal approaches, discussions and speculations continue about the potential impact of Wilson’s Nike deal on the future apparel decisions at the University of South Carolina.



    Source link

  • Tom Brady won't cheer for Caitlin Clark but welcomed her best friend to Las Vegas Aces

    Tom Brady won't cheer for Caitlin Clark but welcomed her best friend to Las Vegas Aces

    Las Vegas Aces minority owner Tom Bradyextended a heartfelt welcome to Kate Martin, former teammate of basketball sensation Caitlin Clark, on Monday night. Martin, who played alongside Clark at the University of Iowa, was pleasantly surprised when the Aces selected her in the second round of the draft.

    “There are a lot of emotions right now,” Martin told ESPN.

    Caitlin Clark’s goal for first WNBA season with Indiana Fever surprises ESPN reporter

    “I’m really happy to be here. I was here to support Caitlin, but I was hoping to hear my name called. All I wanted was an opportunity and I got it. I’m really excited.”

    Brady took to Instagram to express his excitement, sharing a graphic featuring Martin and her fellow Aces draftees with the caption, ‘Welcome to the family!’

    In addition to Martin, the Aces made several other notable picks in the draft, including Dyaisha Fair, Elizabeth Kitley, and Angel Jackson. With these additions, the team aims to strengthen its lineup and compete at the highest level in the upcoming season.

    A potential NFL comeback

    Meanwhile, Brady has been making headlines of his own, recently dropping hints about a potential return to football. Despite officially retiring from the NFL in early 2023, Brady hinted at the possibility of a comeback, expressing his readiness to stay in shape and continue playing if the opportunity arose.

    This speculation has sparked excitement among fans and pundits alike, reminiscent of Michael Jordan‘s iconic return to basketball after a brief retirement.



    Source link

  • Kate Martin gets the surprise of her life: Went to the WNBA draft to support Caitlin Clark and wins the biggest prize of her life

    Kate Martin gets the surprise of her life: Went to the WNBA draft to support Caitlin Clark and wins the biggest prize of her life

    Kate Martin traveled to the WNBA draft to support her Iowa teammate Caitlin Clark and ended up getting drafted by the Las Vegas Aces.

    Martin was selected 18th overall by the defending champions.

    Caitlin Clark’s goal for first WNBA season with Indiana Fever surprises ESPN reporter

    “There are a lot of emotions right now,” Martin said in an interview on ESPN. “I’m really happy to be here. I was here to support Caitlin, but I was hoping to hear my name called. All I wanted was an opportunity and I got it. I’m really excited.”

    Martin was among the 1,000 fans who were inside the Brooklyn Academy of Music, seated next to her former Iowa teammates Gabbie Marshall and Jada Gyamfi. As she heard her name called, she hugged Hawkeyes assistant coach Jan Jensen.

    “I’m super excited for the opportunity. I have a really good work ethic,” Martin said.

    She helped Iowa reach the NCAA title game for the second straight season and finished her career with 1,299 points, 756 rebounds and 473 assists.

    Along with Clark, who was drafted first by Indiana, Iowa had two players selected in the draft for the first time since 1998.

    The league will open training camp on April 28 and the season starts May 14.

    The Aces didn’t have any picks in the first round, but made the most of three second-round choices. Las Vegas also chose Syracuse guard Dyaisha Fair, who finished as the third-leading scorer in NCAA Division I history, with the 16th pick.

    The team closed out the round by drafting Virginia Tech’s Elizabeth Kitley, who is recovering from a torn ACL. She’s out for the season and showed up on crutches.



    Source link

  • Rough night! WNBA Player Sabrina Ionescu Vomits On Live TV

    Rough night! WNBA Player Sabrina Ionescu Vomits On Live TV

    In a high-stakes Game 4 of the WNBA Finals, New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu showcased her unwavering determination and resilience, despite a notable moment of vulnerability.

    With the Liberty trailing the Las Vegas Aces and their championship hopes hanging in the balance, Ionescu’s nerves and the weight of the moment reached a climax.

    Less than halfway through the fourth quarter, after sinking a crucial 3-pointer, the Oregon graduate dashed to the sideline and regrettably emptied her stomach into a trash can.

    The incident unfolded while the Liberty were on the precipice of potentially losing the championship to the Aces, who had secured a 2-1 lead in the Finals.

    Ionescu showed courage beyond duty

    However, the episode did not appear to derail Ionescu’s resolve. ESPN sideline reporter Andraya Carter shed light on Ionescu’s pre-game anxiety, highlighting her candid admission about battling nerves.

    Carter reported, “You talk about nerves in a Finals moment, Sabrina Ionescu, who just hit a big three and came over to the sideline and lost the contents of her stomach. She told me that she gets nervous before games, but she went right back out, wiped off her chin, and kept on playing.”

    Despite the Liberty eventually falling to the Las Vegas Aces, Ionescu managed to sink another critical shot in the waning minutes of the fourth quarter, keeping her team in contention.

    Liberty fought until the final whistle

    The New York Liberty, needing a win in Game 3 to stay alive in the Finals, delivered an impressive performance, supported by a record crowd, to secure an 87-73 victory. Heading into Game 4, facing an injury-depleted Aces team, the Liberty aimed to force a decisive Game 5.

    Ionescu acknowledged the challenge of playing against an injured Aces squad, emphasizing the team’s focus on their own goals amid unfortunate circumstances.

    In this emotionally charged Finals battle, Ionescu’s display of resilience on and off the court is a testament to the grit and determination that defines WNBA athletes.



    Source link