NFL
In an 85-84 win over the Atlanta Dream, the Aces demonstrated the steadiness of a team operating from championship memory.
The game marked the final stop of a four-game road stretch for Las Vegas following the season opener against Phoenix. With the Dream’s defensive pressure, pace, and the addition of Angel Reese, the Aces were pushed into a pressure-filled finish.
Rather than spiraling during momentum swings, Vegas settled into a rhythm refined over years of playing together. Chelsea Gray played a pivotal role in maintaining that rhythm, ultimately delivering the game-winning basket in the final seconds.
The Dream Kept Pace
Between Canada’s speed (11 points, 7 steals), Gray’s aggressive drives to the basket (25 points, 9 rebounds), and Paopao’s perimeter efficiency (19 points, 4 three-pointers), Atlanta consistently applied pressure in the first half. In moments when the Aces appeared settled into their flow, Atlanta responded quickly and continued to force Vegas into uncomfortable possessions.
The symmetry between both teams’ perimeter players was one of the most compelling parts of the game to watch, with each side responding to the other with speed, pressure, and physicality. Canada’s matchup with Chennedy Carter (20 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists) became one of the fastest-moving dynamics, creating nonstop movement across the floor.
Much of the anticipation entering the game centered on Angel Reese (9 points, 8 rebounds) and A’ja Wilson (20 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assists), with Reese remaining engaged throughout challenging stretches deep into the fourth quarter.
The Aces Remained Composed
For Vegas, composure remains central to the team’s DNA. Atlanta’s pace posed an early threat as the Aces worked to create separation in the first half, yet Las Vegas never looked too far removed from itself.
Gray (21 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists) played a major role in regaining control of the ball. She creates timely offense in high-pressure moments. Although, Jackie Young finished without scoring (7 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks), yet her defensive presence remained impactful. Atlanta’s offensive run during the two-way guard’s absence reinforces her value.
Sunday’s win revealed how heavily Vegas leans into the structure that has proven success. The Aces are not searching for reinvention early in this season. They are trusting the habits that carried them through championship basketball over the past several seasons. That continuity positions the Aces as a legitimate contender for a fourth title run.
