GAME RECAP: Las Vegas Aces Prevail in Hard-Fought 83-77 Battle over New York Liberty
Date: Thu, Aug 14, 2025
Location: Michelob ULTRA Arena, Las Vegas
In a thrilling clash on August 13, 2025, the Las Vegas Aces edged out the New York Liberty with a hard-fought 83-77 victory. The game was rife with tension and excitement, featuring 13 lead changes and nine ties. Both teams’ competitive spirit was palpable, as neither side managed to establish a comfortable lead of more than seven points throughout the match.
Key Performers
Jewell Loyd proved to be the star of the game for the Aces, coming off the bench to contribute 21 crucial points, shooting 5 of 9 from beyond the arc. A’ja Wilson, a dominant force in the paint, amassed a double-double with 17 points and an impressive 16 rebounds. Jackie Young added 15 points, while Chelsea Gray rounded out the scoring with 13 points, demonstrating the Aces’ well-rounded offensive capabilities.
On the Liberty’s side, Emma Meesseman led her team with a stellar performance, registering 24 points and securing 10 rebounds. Her efforts were crucial in keeping New York competitive throughout the game.
Game Breakdown
The first quarter set the tone for an intensely competitive game. The Aces initially surged ahead with an 8-2 lead, but the Liberty responded fiercely, tying the score at 12-12. By the end of the quarter, New York had taken a slight edge, closing out the period with a 24-20 score. The Aces shot 47.1% from the field, while the Liberty boasted a higher shooting percentage of 58.8%.
As the second quarter unfolded, the Aces began to find their rhythm. A burst of energy led to a 10-2 run, putting them ahead 30-26 at the 6:33 mark. However, the Liberty quickly regained control, closing out the half with a 43-40 advantage. Both teams displayed impressive shooting percentages, but the Liberty’s ability to capitalize on the Aces’ turnovers was a key factor.
The third quarter saw New York extend their lead to seven points, reaching 54-47 midway through the period. Yet, the Aces fought back, scoring seven consecutive points to take a narrow 59-58 lead by the quarter’s end, with Loyd’s performance shining through as she scored nine points in this frame.
Final Quarter Drama
The final quarter was a nail-biter, with the score tied at 72-72 with just over four minutes to play. It was a back-and-forth struggle until NaLyssa Smith made two free throws, giving the Aces a pivotal lead they would not relinquish. Despite missing several shots, the Aces made crucial free throws down the stretch, sinking 15 of 18 from the line in the fourth quarter compared to New York’s 5 of 5.
Both defenses tightened, but the Aces’ ability to secure offensive rebounds and manage the clock proved decisive. As the clock wound down, the Aces managed to hold off the Liberty, sealing the game with timely free throws from Young that stretched the final deficit.
Statistical Highlights
- Shooting Percentages: The Aces shot 25 of 65 from the field for 38.5% and 10 of 29 from three-point range (34.5%). Conversely, the Liberty managed 28 of 64 (43.8%) overall, but struggled from deep with only 7 of 25 (28%).
- Rebounding Battle: The Aces dominated the boards, out-rebounding the Liberty 39-30.
- Turnover Impact: Las Vegas capitalized on New York’s 11 turnovers, scoring 17 points off those mistakes.
Notable Achievements
- Wilson’s perfect free-throw shooting (11 of 11) marked the eighth time in her career she has achieved this feat with 10 or more attempts, which places her among the best in WNBA history.
- Young, with her 165th career win, has set the record for the most WNBA victories before turning 28, surpassing the legendary Maya Moore.
- The game marked the 42nd consecutive sellout at the Michelob ULTRA Arena, highlighting the growing fan engagement in women’s basketball.
Looking Ahead
Next, the Aces will set their sights on the Phoenix Mercury in a highly anticipated matchup on August 15, 2025. The teams are currently tied 1-1 in their head-to-head this season, with the Aces aiming to build momentum from their recent victory.
For further details, fans can check the Box Score, view Photos, and catch the Highlights from this thrilling encounter.