Aces Will Seek Game 2 Win Against Golden State

The Las Vegas Aces prepare for Wednesday's WNBA semifinal matchup following a tough opening loss.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Basketball

Expressive sports illustration featuring two basketball players in motion on court, rendered in Las Vegas Aces and Golden State Valkyries team colors.
The Las Vegas Aces look to rebound against the Golden State Valkyries on Wednesday following their Game 1 defeat in the WNBA semifinals. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Following a 71-60 loss to the Golden State Valkyries in Game 1, the Las Vegas Aces look to rebound on Wednesday. The team is aiming to resolve offensive struggles caused by intense backcourt pressure.

Why it matters

The Aces must address poor spacing and transition issues to stay competitive in the series. Success in Game 2 is critical to avoiding a deeper hole against a tough Golden State defense.

In Game 1, the Aces shot 33.9 percent from the field and managed only two offensive rebounds. A'ja Wilson recorded 24 points on 8-of-21 shooting, while Chelsea Gray contributed 16 points and three assists.

The players

A'ja Wilson

She is a star forward for the Las Vegas Aces who led her team with 24 points in the Game 1 loss.

Chelsea Gray

She is a point guard for the Las Vegas Aces who recorded 16 points and three assists in the opening game of the series.

Jackie Young

She is a versatile guard for the Las Vegas Aces who shot 4-of-15 from the field in the series opener.

Las Vegas Aces

This is a professional basketball team based in Las Vegas that competes in the WNBA.

Golden State Valkyries

This is a professional basketball team competing in the WNBA playoffs.

The details

The Golden State Valkyries successfully disrupted the Aces offensive rhythm during Game 1 by utilizing a fresh rotation of guards to apply relentless pressure. Las Vegas struggled to find open looks, managing just three fast-break points throughout the contest.

Timeline

  1. The Aces and Valkyries play Game 2 on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.

Season Trajectory

This series remains a critical test for the Las Vegas Aces, whose performance in Game 2 will dictate the remainder of their playoff journey. A win could stabilize their standing and shift the momentum back in their favor against the Golden State Valkyries.

The Aces must improve their offensive spacing to counter the Valkyries' defensive pressure or face a significant deficit in the series. Improving on the mere three fast-break points from Game 1 will be essential to keeping the team's offensive efficiency high.

The takeaway

Adjusting to aggressive guard pressure is essential for the Aces to regain control of the floor. Players must focus on transition offense to avoid being held to limited scoring opportunities in the next game.

Further reading

For more on the team's postseason run, visit Las Vegas Basketball.

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