Las Vegas Aces become WNBA’s 1st repeat champions in 21 years

The Las Vegas Aces clinched their second consecutive title in the 2023 WNBA Finals, defeating the New York Liberty 70-69 on Wednesday. This victory marked the Aces as the first team to achieve back-to-back championships since the Los Angeles Sparks in 2001-2002.

Despite missing guard Chelsea Gray and center Kiah Stokes due to foot injuries sustained in Game 3, the Aces managed to secure the win. A’ja Wilson, forward for the Aces, delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 24 points and grabbing 16 rebounds. Guard Jackie Young also contributed with 16 points and seven assists.

The Liberty, led by MVP forward Breanna Stewart and guard Sabrina Ionescu, initially gained a strong advantage, leading the Aces 23-13 by the end of the first quarter. However, the Aces made a remarkable comeback.

In the final seconds of the fourth quarter, with the Liberty trailing by just one point, guard Courtney Vandersloot had an opportunity to force a Game 5. Unfortunately, her buzzer-beater attempt fell short, allowing the Aces to celebrate their victory at midcourt in the Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York.

A’ja Wilson was honored as the WNBA Finals MVP and expressed her gratitude to her teammates for their support throughout the series.

“During this time, we relied on each other so much,” Wilson shared in an interview with ESPN. “We overcame adversities throughout the season… We’re champions now. I can’t put into words how proud I am of my teammates. They lifted me up when I was down. We experienced tears and prayers together, and now we’re celebrating together with champagne!”

Aces head coach Becky Hammon displayed unwavering confidence in her team, stating that she believed in every single player on the court.

“I know their character and what they’re capable of,” Hammon added. “No matter the outcome, I’m standing by their side. I stand with them through it all.”

Create an account on CNN.com for additional news and newsletters.