A’ja Wilson recorded 27 points and grabbed eight rebounds, while Jackie Young contributed 23 points as the Las Vegas Aces secured a 93-73 victory over the Toronto Tempo on Friday evening. Young also tallied eight assists without any turnovers, with Chelsea Gray chipping in 11 points. This game marked the Aces’ first match without NaLyssa Smith, who sustained a season-ending left leg injury during Sunday’s 88-78 triumph against Toronto.
On the opposing side, Isabelle Harrison led Toronto with 15 points, followed by Laura Juskaite with 14 points, Kia Nurse with 12 points, and Kiki Rice and reserve player Kiana Williams each adding 10 points.
Following the win on Friday, the Aces (27-13) maintained a one-game lead over Indiana (26-14) for third place in the WNBA playoff standings, as Indiana defeated Connecticut 111-91.
Jackie Young’s 3-pointer broke an early 8-8 tie, propelling Las Vegas to hold the lead for the entirety of the game. The Aces ended the first quarter with a 27-17 advantage, shooting 10 for 20 from the field, including 6-of-12 from beyond the arc, while Toronto committed nine turnovers in the opening quarter.
Las Vegas continued their strong shooting performance into the second quarter, establishing a commanding 56-39 lead by halftime. Despite a slight decline in 3-point shooting efficiency (1-for-6) in the second quarter, Las Vegas maintained a solid 50 percent shooting rate (18-for-36) overall.
Toronto accumulated 12 personal fouls in the first half, allowing the Aces to capitalize by converting 13 of 14 free throws.
In the upcoming games, the Toronto Tempo will face the Phoenix Mercury on Saturday, while the Las Vegas Aces are scheduled to visit the Seattle Storm on Thursday, September 17.
