Game Recap: Wilson’s Double-Double Not Enough as Aces Fall to Storm 90-83
LAS VEGAS (June 20, 2025) — In a thrilling matchup at Michelob ULTRA Arena, the Las Vegas Aces (5-7) narrowly lost to the Seattle Storm (8-5) with a final score of 90-83. Despite the absence of star player A’ja Wilson for the past three games due to concussion protocol, she made a strong comeback, tallying a double-double with 20 points and 14 rebounds. However, the Aces’ efforts fell short, particularly in the final minutes, highlighting key moments in a game that saw many lead changes.
The Intensity of the First Half
The game kicked off with the Aces briefly leading 5-2, but the Storm quickly established dominance, launching a 14-3 run that put them up 16-8 early in the first quarter. Despite Seattle’s early surge, Las Vegas rallied back as Aaliyah Nye hit crucial three-pointers, igniting an 8-0 run that ended the first quarter on a high note for the Aces, narrowing the gap to 23-21.
As the second quarter unfolded, Seattle regained the lead, pushing ahead 29-23. Yet, the Aces responded with grit, led by Jackie Young, who scored 10 points during a pivotal 12-2 run. By halftime, the Aces flipped the script, ending the quarter with a 45-38 advantage thanks to a resolute defense that limited Seattle to just 29.4% shooting in the second quarter.
A Thrilling Third Quarter
Coming back from halftime, the Aces maintained their momentum, stretching their lead to as much as 11 points. However, the Storm bounced back with a fierce 15-4 run, reclaiming the lead at 64-63 by the end of the third quarter. Both teams displayed offensive prowess, with high shooting percentages that added to the suspense. Yet, the Aces faced foul trouble, as they didn’t take a single trip to the free-throw line in the quarter, in stark contrast to the Storm’s successful 5 of 6 from the line.
The Final Quarter: A Battle to the End
The fourth quarter was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams exchanging leads multiple times. At one point, the Aces found themselves within three points of the Storm, trailing 84-81. However, as the clock wound down, missed field goals and turnovers haunted Las Vegas, allowing Seattle to pull away. The Storm capitalized, sinking important three-pointers that ultimately sealed the Aces’ fate.
While Loyd contributed significantly for Seattle with 15 points, it was Nneka Ogwumike who shined brightest with 25 points and 12 rebounds, supported by Skylar Diggins’ 24 points. The Storm’s depth came through in the clutch, making the most of the Aces’ late-game struggles.
Key Stats Highlighting the Matchup
The statistical breakdown revealed some intriguing insights. The Aces had their best shooting performance of the season, connecting on 47.5% of their field goals and a remarkable 57.9% from three-point range. However, their struggles at the free-throw line were evident, hitting only 66.7% compared to Seattle’s 81.2%.
Las Vegas outperformed the Storm on the boards, securing 37 rebounds against Seattle’s 30. They also forced 11 turnovers, converting them into 13 points, a promising sign for their defensive efforts.
Player Achievements and Milestones
A’ja Wilson’s return was significant not only for her impressive double-double but also as she inches closer to a milestone. With 4,969 career points, she is just 31 points shy of becoming the 28th player in WNBA history to reach 5,000 points. Having played only 236 games, Wilson is on track to become the fastest to hit this mark, surpassing Breanna Stewart’s record.
Jackie Young continued her streak at the free-throw line, hitting 22 consecutive attempts dating back to June 11. Although this game marked some personal achievements, Wilson also faced challenges, committing seven turnovers—the most she has ever recorded in a single game.
Looking Ahead
With the Aces faced with adversity from injuries, including the absence of Megan Gustafson and Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, they are now preparing to welcome the Indiana Fever (6-5) to Las Vegas for a Sunday matinee game. The match will tip off at 12 p.m. and will be nationally broadcast on ESPN, providing the Aces with another opportunity to find their rhythm and harness the remarkable talent of players like Wilson and Young.
With the playoffs on the horizon, every game is critical, and the Aces will need to channel the skills and determination they displayed in flashes against the Storm to secure a spot in the postseason.