A’ja Wilson delivered a masterclass performance with 31 points and 11 rebounds, leading the Las Vegas Aces to an 80-66 win over the Chicago Sky on Sunday night and extending their winning streak to 14 games. This victory ties the fourth-longest streak in WNBA history and solidifies Wilson’s record-setting 13th game with 30 or more points this season.
Wilson’s all-around game included 4 steals and 3 blocks, underscoring her defensive impact. She has now recorded 10 games with at least 30 points and 10 rebounds, breaking her own single-season record. Her 13 thirty-point games surpass the previous mark of 12 held by Jewell Loyd and Maya Moore.
The Aces’ win streak, equaling the 2021 Connecticut Sun, has propelled them to a 28-14 record, tied with Atlanta for second place in the WNBA standings. With the regular season concluding this week, Las Vegas is positioning itself for a favorable playoff seed.
Chicago was severely undermanned, missing Angel Reese due to a team suspension for the first half and a back injury that kept her out of the second half. Ariel Atkins was also absent, and the Sky struggled to keep pace, with Rachel Banham and Michaela Onyenwere leading the team with 12 points each.
Las Vegas dominated from the outset, opening the game with an 11-0 run initiated by Wilson putting back her own miss. Jackie Young supported with 20 points and 9 assists, while the Aces’ defense held strong throughout.
Coach Becky Hammon expressed awe at Wilson’s versatility, describing her as both a “lion and a gazelle” for her physical dominance and agility. Wilson is a strong contender for her fourth MVP award, competing with Napheesa Collier and Alyssa Thomas.
The teams face off again on Tuesday in Las Vegas, offering the Aces a chance to extend their streak. The regular season ends on Thursday, with playoffs starting next Sunday, setting the stage for an exciting postseason.
Wilson’s season averages of 23.8 points and 10.1 rebounds lead the league in scoring and place her second in rebounds. Her defensive achievements—85 blocks and 61 steals—make her one of only three players in WNBA history to reach 60+ in both categories in a season, alongside Lisa Leslie and Yolanda Griffith.