Clark announced in early September that she would miss the remainder of the season due to a groin injury that had limited her throughout the year. The superstar had already missed 19 straight games before confirming on social media that she would sit out the rest of the playoffs.

Even without Clark, Indiana delivered an impressive 89–73 road win in Game 1. Now, the Fever are looking to take a 2-0 lead in the best-of-five series before returning home with a chance to close it out.

Fever shine in Game 1 win

In the absence of Caitlin Clark, it was guard Kelsey Mitchell who stepped up to lead the Fever. The 29-year-old poured in a postseason career-high 34 points, adding three assists and a rebound in 34 minutes of action to power Indiana past the Aces.

Young forward Aliyah Boston also made a major impact on the defensive end, helping contain league MVP A’ja Wilson. The Aces star was held to 16 points on 6-of-22 shooting, though she still managed to grab 13 rebounds.

Fever head coach Stephanie White credited her team’s defensive effort against Wilson, while acknowledging the challenge of guarding the four-time MVP. “I think the biggest thing is, she’s the best player in the world,” White said on the In Case You Missed It with Khristina Williams podcast. “And you’re not going to take away what she does best. She missed a lot of shots that she typically makes“.

“We just have to try to keep her off balance and make her shots as tough as possible. I think AB was quoted as saying, ‘I just tried to be annoying.’ And that’s it. You just have to make it as difficult as possible. She’s going to do what she does best. There’s a reason she is a four-time MVP of this league,” she added.

What exactly is coach Hammon referring to with that statement? Specifically, to the performance of A’ja Wilson — the recently crowned league MVP — who didn’t have her best game against the Fever.

Following the 89–73 loss on their home court, Aces head coach Becky Hammon spoke to the media and issued a warning to opponents — her star player doesn’t usually have two bad games in a row.

“I think she just missed, honestly. She had a lot of great looks… I’ll tell you this, she doesn’t normally play two stinkers in a row,” Hammon said via Tony East.

Wilson’s performance

While the Indiana Fever stole the show in their Game 1 upset, the performance of Aces MVP A’ja Wilson left many wanting more. Wilson finished with a solid stat line of 16 points, 13 rebounds, and 1 assist in 34 minutes of play, but the numbers don’t tell the full story.

The reigning MVP was uncharacteristically quiet, struggling to assert her dominance and take over the game as fans have grown accustomed to seeing. With the Aces’ offense stalling at critical moments, many expected Wilson to elevate her play and carry her team to victory. Instead, she was outshined by the Fever’s Kelsey Mitchell, who delivered a career night.

The Aces will need their star player to be more aggressive and impactful on both ends of the court if they hope to even the series and keep their championship hopes alive.

What’s next for the Aces?

• Michelob ULTRA Arena Las Vegas, September 23
• @ Gainbridge Fieldhouse Indianapolis, September 26
• @ Gainbridge Fieldhouse Indianapolis, September 28 (If necessary)
• Michelob ULTRA Arena Las Vegas, September 30 (If necessary)

After earning this individual honor, the South Carolina alum and veteran star delivered a heartfelt message — aimed directly at those who never believed in her talent.

“It hasn’t been easy for us,” she said. “They counted us out, they wrote us all off, but we showed up every single day and we worked our asses off… it has my name on it and it’s gonna be that, but this one is all of us. There is no that without each and every one of you guys.”

Wilson wrapped up the season posting averages of 23.4 points and 10.2 rebounds per game, powering the No. 2 seed Aces as they pursue their third championship in four years with her at the forefront.

From the King to the Queen

Earning the league’s MVP title is no small feat — and it’s a distinction that A’ja Wilson can proudly add to her legacy. The recognition didn’t go unnoticed, and none other than LeBron James himself took to social media to congratulate the Aces’ star on her incredible achievement.

“4 piece chicken nugget!!!! Congratulations sis!,” the Lakers star posted on his Instagram official account.

The finals in sight

The Las Vegas Aces are on a clear mission to return to the WNBA Finals and capture another championship. After a dominant regular season led by MVP A’ja Wilson, the team has navigated the early rounds of the playoffs with its sights set on a repeat.

However, standing in their way is a resilient Indiana Fever team that has proven to be a dangerous spoiler. While the Aces’ star power and veteran experience give them a clear advantage, the Fever’s balanced attack and tenacious defense have presented a unique challenge.

With their young core and newfound momentum, Indiana will look to disrupt the Aces’ dynasty and pull off an upset that would send them to the Finals, while Las Vegas must prove that their championship mettle is enough to overcome the rising threat of the Fever.

NaLyssa Smith has quickly emerged as one of the brightest young stars. Standing out for her versatility and athleticism, she has already become a key figure for the Las Vegas Aces, turning heads with her combination of power, agility, and court awareness.

Since being drafted, she has impressed with her ability to adapt and elevate her game. Her presence in the paint and on the perimeter adds a dynamic edge to the lineup, hinting at a player who could shape the team’s identity for years to come.

Her journey reflects resilience and rapid growth. Navigating trades and rising expectations, she continues to evolve, offering glimpses of leadership and determination that promise a career as compelling as her highlights in the WNBA.

How old is NaLyssa Smith?

Born on August 8, 2000, in Converse, Texas, NaLyssa Smith is currently 25 years old. She honed her skills at Baylor University, where she led the Bears to a national championship and earned All-American honors. Her standout college career paved the way for her selection as the 2nd overall pick in the 2022 WNBA Draft by the Indiana Fever.

How tall is NaLyssa Smith?

NaLyssa Smith stands at an imposing 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 meters) and weighs 185 pounds (83.9 kg). Her height and athletic build make her a formidable presence on the court, contributing to her versatility and effectiveness in both offensive and defensive plays.

NaLyssa Smith’s love life and family

NaLyssa Smith’s personal life is as dynamic as her basketball career. She has been in a relationship with fellow WNBA player DiJonai Carrington since their college days at Baylor University. Their bond has been a topic of interest among fans and media alike.

However, recent developments have added complexity to their relationship. In July 2025, she was traded from the Dallas Wings to the Las Vegas Aces, a move that separated the couple both professionally and personally.

She expressed her heartbreak over the trade, stating she was “sick to my stomach” upon hearing the news. Despite the distance, both players continue to support each other, with Carrington acknowledging the challenges of being apart but remaining hopeful for their future together.

Family plays a pivotal role in her life. She was born to Rodney and Nikki Smith. Rodney Sr. is a former professional basketball player who competed in leagues across Australia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Nikki, her mother, had a successful career as a model and is an active presence on social media.

What is NaLyssa Smith’s jersey number?

NaLyssa Smith currently wears jersey number 3 for the Las Vegas Aces. After being traded from the Dallas Wings in 2025, she has become an integral part of their frontcourt, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Her presence has bolstered the Aces’ lineup, enhancing their depth and championship aspirations.

NaLyssa Smith’s career highlights

• WNBA All-Rookie Team (2022): She made an immediate impact in her debut season with the Indiana Fever, averaging 13.5 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. This recognition reflected her seamless transition from college to the professional stage, proving she could handle the physicality and speed of the WNBA while maintaining consistency on both ends of the court.

• Athletes Unlimited League Champion (2023): Participating in the Athletes Unlimited basketball league allowed her to showcase her versatility. Leading her team to the championship, she displayed leadership skills and adaptability, proving she can thrive in different team environments and formats while contributing significantly to victories.

• NCAA Champion with Baylor (2019): Winning the national championship at Baylor was a defining moment in her college career. She played a critical role in the Bears’ title run, demonstrating poise in high-pressure situations and cementing her reputation as a clutch performer capable of dominating on a national stage.

• Wade Trophy (2021): Receiving the Wade Trophy marked her as the top female college basketball player in the nation. It was a testament not only to her statistics but also to her impact on the court as a leader, her work ethic, and her influence on her team’s culture.

• Honda Sports Award (2021): This award recognized her excellence beyond basketball, acknowledging her as a model student-athlete who excelled in sportsmanship, academics, and community impact. It highlighted the holistic approach she brings to her career.

• 2× WBCA Coaches’ All-American (2021, 2022): Being named an All-American twice by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association confirmed her consistency and elite status in college basketball, earning recognition from coaches nationwide who saw her as one of the game’s top talents.

• 2× First-team All-American – AP (2021, 2022): Selection to the Associated Press First-Team All-American squad reflected her dominance at the national level, acknowledging her as one of the top five players in college basketball for two consecutive seasons.

• First-team All-American – USBWA (2022) and Second-team (2021): Recognition by the United States Basketball Writers Association highlighted her consistent performance and national influence, showing her rise from promising talent to established star.

• 2× Big 12 Player of the Year (2021, 2022): Her back-to-back Player of the Year awards in the Big 12 Conference reflected her dominance in one of the most competitive leagues in college basketball. She led her team in scoring, rebounding, and efficiency, setting the stage for her professional career.

From dominating college courts to rising as a key forward, NaLyssa Smith’s journey has been marked by skill, determination, and moments that turn heads. Her path reflects both talent and the increasing recognition of women’s basketball stars.

Her role with the Las Vegas Aces positions her among the league’s most watched players. Beyond stats and highlights, the questions about her professional value and earnings add another layer to understanding the impact she brings to the team.

As the WNBA grows in popularity and financial influence, players like her represent both athletic prowess and the evolving economics of the sport. Her story intertwines on-court performance with off-court negotiations that shape careers.

What is NaLyssa Smith’ salary with Las Vegas Aces?

NaLyssa Smith earns a base salary of $91,981 for the 2025 WNBA season, according to Spotrac. This figure places her among the mid-tier earners on the team, reflecting her status as a key rotational player.

In comparison to some of her teammates, such as A’ja Wilson, who earn significantly higher salaries, her compensation aligns with her current role and experience level. Her earnings are structured within the salary cap constraints.

Despite being on a rookie-scale contract, her salary reflects the Aces’ investment in her potential. As she continues to develop and contribute to the team’s success, future contract negotiations may see her earnings increase.

NaLyssa Smith’s contract: How long does the deal last?

NaLyssa Smith’s current contract with the Las Vegas Aces is a three-year deal valued at $226,668. This contract includes a team option for the 2025 season, which the Aces exercised, confirming their commitment.

The structure provides them with flexibility, allowing the team to assess her performance over the initial years before making long-term decisions. As a restricted free agent following the 2025 season, her future will depend on her.

The Aces’ decision to acquire her from the Dallas Wings underscores their belief in her potential. This trade indicates a commitment to integrating her into their core group, with the expectation that she will contribute significantly.

The three-time WNBA MVP powered the Aces with 32 points and a career-high 20 rebounds, becoming the first player in league history to record a double-double of 30-plus points and at least 20 rebounds in a single game.

“It’s huge,” Wilson told ESPN after the game. “I didn’t even know, as many greats as we have in this league, it’s kind of a shocker that it’s just now happening. It’s a blessing. I love what I do. I love what I do. I love it so much, so anytime that I can come out and just play basketball the way that I love it, and the team, and we’re all getting involved — I’m happy with that”.

Wilson is putting together an MVP-caliber campaign. Over her last three games, she’s averaging 29.3 points, 13.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.3 steals in 34.3 minutes per contest. The two-time WNBA champion also reflected on what it means to be the first player to achieve such a feat, while recognizing others could soon follow.

“It’s pretty cool to have my name in the record books when it comes to that,” Wilson said. “I’m pretty sure there’s going to be a lot following up. So yeah, it’s pretty cool to kind of be the first one”.

Wilson continues to impress

Wilson’s latest milestone comes as no surprise. This season, the Aces’ superstar became the fastest and second-youngest player in WNBA history to reach 5,000 career points, while also ranking first in 30-point games since entering the league in 2018, per ESPN.

At 29, the two-time WNBA champion already owns a long list of records, yet she continues to prove there’s more to achieve. Her teammate Jackie Young said Wilson’s consistency — even against the toughest defensive schemes — is what sets her apart.

“Every night she shows up, and I think that’s why she’s so great at what she does,” Young said. “She’s a super hard worker, so it’s cool to see her hard work pay off. At the same time, they’re bringing double teams to her, triple teams to her, and she’s having to navigate that and play out of it. She’s still able to put up insane numbers every night“.

When Jackie Young opted to stay in Las Vegas through 2025, it felt less like corporate paperwork and more like a chapter in an unfolding saga. Another season written in gold and black, this extension whispered of faith and unfinished business in the desert.

Her ascent—from No. 1 pick to championship core—shimmers in the numbers, but those figures only cloak part of the story. Beneath the surface lies a negotiation that bridges promise and performance, leadership and ledger, all while Aces fans hold their breath.

This return anchors a roster brimming with talent and ambition. It marks not merely another season, but a continuation of legacy-building in the shadows of the WNBA championships already earned, and the ones still waiting.

What is Jackie Young’s salary with Las Vegas Aces?

Jackie Young is earning $169,950 in base salary for the 2025 WNBA season with the Las Vegas Aces, according to Spotrac. This figure places her among the top earners on the team and reflects the value she brings to the reigning champions.

Her salary is part of an extension worth $504,900, signed in May 2024, which averages out to $252,450 per year. Her compensation is notable in a league where salaries are tightly regulated under the collective bargaining agreement.

While WNBA salaries don’t approach the astronomical figures seen in the NBA, her deal is a strong indicator of her elite status. She ranks just behind stars like Jewell Loyd and A’ja Wilson in annual earnings, and her paycheck mirrors her impact on the court.

Jackie Young’s contract: How long does the deal last?

Jackie Young signed a two-year contract extension with the Las Vegas Aces in May 2022, which runs through the end of the 2025 season. This deal reflects the team’s clear intent to keep their core players intact as they pursue sustained championship success.

Midway through 2025, she remains a pivotal figure, with her leadership and on-court production justifying the investment. As her contract approaches its conclusion, both her and the franchise are positioned to assess future options amid an evolving WNBA salary landscape.

Her current status is a key storyline for the season—whether the Aces will extend her stay or if new opportunities might shape the next phase of her career. Either way, this contract has underscored her importance within one of the league’s most competitive rosters.

Jackie Young has quietly become one of the Las Vegas Aces’ most reliable two-way guards. Standing 6‑0 and drafted first overall in 2019 out of Notre Dame, she effortlessly blends scoring, defense and court vision.

A product of Princeton, Indiana, she shattered the state scoring record in high school before winning an NCAA title in 2018. She arrived in Vegas as the franchise’s cornerstone and has steadily evolved her game year by year.

Since joining the Aces, she has earned two WNBA championships, claimed Most Improved Player honors, and been named an All‑Star multiple times. Her quiet intensity on and off the court underscores a steady rise through elite ranks.

How old is Jackie Young?

Born on September 16, 1997, Jackie Young is currently 27 years old as of August 2025. Hailing from Princeton, Indiana, she entered the WNBA as a 21‑year‑old when the Las Vegas Aces made her the first overall pick in the 2019 draft.

How tall is Jackie Young?

Standing a solid 6 feet tall (approximately 1.83 m) and weighing 165 lbs, Jackie Young combines length with agility in her backcourt role. That height gives her a unique edge: enough reach to contest shots on defense, yet nimble enough to weave through defenses as a guard.

Jackie Young’s love life and family

Jackie was raised in a hardworking, close-knit household in Indiana, by her single mother Linda Young, alongside her older brother Terrence and sister Kiare. Her mother juggled multiple jobs to keep the family afloat. That early environment instilled resilience and humility in her long before the spotlight found her.

Despite growing fame, she has chosen to keep her romantic life tightly under wraps. Publicly, no confirmed partner has been announced, and she shares few hints on social media.

What is Jackie Young’s jersey number?

Jackie Young sports jersey number 0 for the Las Vegas Aces, a number she adopted upon joining the team as the first overall pick in 2019. Though symbolic in many ways, she wears it simply—never flashy, always effective.

The numeral has become synonymous with her contributions—quiet determination, two-way tenacity, steady growth. It’s recognized by fans and teammates alike, not for glitz, but for consistency and impact across championship seasons.

Jackie Young’s career highlights

• WNBA Champion (2022, 2023): A key figure in Las Vegas’s first-ever WNBA titles, she helped propel the Aces to back-to-back championships. In 2022, the team posted a franchise‑record 26 wins and top playoff seed—an era she anchored on both ends of the court.

• WNBA Most Improved Player (2022): The first in franchise history to earn the award, she surged to new career highs: 15.9 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 1.4 spg, and a leap in 3‑point accuracy from 25% to 43.1%. Her scoring and efficiency jump caught national attention.

• WNBA All-Star (2022–2025): Since her breakout, she’s been voted an All-Star four straight years, becoming a vital starter and a high-percentage threat from deep—hitting nearly 48.5% in the 3-point contest at the 2023 game.

• All-WNBA Second Team (2023): In a roster stacked with elite talent, her consistent output—including playmaking, defense, and leadership—earned her league-wide recognition and solidified her as one of the top guards in 2023.

• WNBA All-Rookie Team (2019): Drafted first overall, she made an immediate impact; earning a spot on the All-Rookie squad for her well-balanced debut season and demonstrating early signs of her two-way game.

• NCAA Champion at Notre Dame (2018): Before turning pro, she starred at Notre Dame, helping clinch the 2018 NCAA title. She followed that feat by earning ACC Tournament MVP honors in 2019 and recording multiple rare triple‑doubles as a guard.

• Olympic Gold in 3×3 (Tokyo 2020) and 5×5 (Paris 2024): A last-minute addition to USA’s 3×3 squad in Tokyo, she joined the Games on short notice and helped the team secure gold. Two summers later in Paris, she earned her second gold, this time in traditional full-court play—becoming one of the first athletes to win in both formats.

A’ja Wilson dominates the paint with authority and now she’s making waves off the court too. Her contract with the Las Vegas Aces speaks volumes about a player who’s reshaping the landscape of professional women’s basketball.

While NBA megadeals grab the spotlight, WNBA stars like her are quietly rewriting their own stories. With two MVPs and a central role in the Aces’ back-to-back titles, her earnings are drawing more attention than ever.

The debate around female athletes’ pay is louder than ever, and her case is at the heart of it. Her deal isn’t just about numbers—it’s a statement of value, power, and the shifting tides of the game she now helps define.

What is A’ja Wilson’s salary with the Las Vegas Aces?

A’ja Wilson’s current contract with the Las Vegas Aces stands at $200,000 for the 2025 season, following a two-year, $400,000 deal signed in 2024, as Spotrac reported. This salary places her among the league’s top earners, reflecting her status as a three-time MVP and two-time WNBA champion.

However, it’s important to note that while this figure is significant within the WNBA, it remains modest compared to NBA salaries, highlighting ongoing discussions about pay equity in women’s professional sports.

A’ja Wilson’s contract: How long will she be with the Aces?

A’ja Wilson’s contract with the Aces is set to conclude after the 2025 season. This timing coincides with the expiration of the WNBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement in 2026, potentially ushering in significant changes to player contracts and league dynamics.

As the team navigates this transitional period, her future remains a topic of speculation. While she has been integral to the franchise’s success, including back-to-back championships in 2022 and 2023, recent challenges such as roster changes and internal team dynamics may influence her decision to re-sign or explore opportunities elsewhere.

The most critical moment came during that tough loss to the Indiana Fever — a game that sparked serious questions about what this team is truly made of. Still, veteran head coach knows they’re in the middle of shaping their identity, and she believes they’ll find a way to get there.

Now sitting at an even 9–9 record after their win over the Sun, the Aces face the major challenge of climbing back up the standings in the Western Conference.

“I think people take for granted how many new pieces we have, like we have to teach all over again,” said Hammon via ESPN’s Alexa Philippou. “It’s all brand new.”

“It’s been a process. Every team goes at a different pace. And I think for me right now, you just continue to teach and continue to demand that effort.”

Forging Las Vegas’ identity

While there’s still a long way to go in this season, the Aces continue searching for their true on-court identity — something that could elevate their level of play even further. And with that potential growth, it’s likely that opposing teams will be keeping an even closer eye on them.

“We’re still developing who we are, the identity of this team, but we’re getting there, you know, crawling. I would like to be walking or striding at this point, but as long as we’re moving in the right direction and I’m seeing progress, I’m happy with that,” WNBA legend Becky Hammon said.

She also added: “I think people like beating us. We’ve been pretty good in this league for the last few years, and people don’t forget that.”

The road ahead for the Aces

With the season at its midpoint, every game now carries more weight. The Aces will need to show consistency and resilience if they hope to regain their championship-caliber rhythm. Upcoming matchups will test both their depth and their evolving identity — a stretch that could define the tone for the rest of the season.

• vs New York Liberty, July 8th
• vs Washington Mystics, July 10th
• vs Golden State Valkyries, July 12th
• vs Dallas Wings, July 16th
• vs Atlanta Dream, July 22nd

Wilson, a three-time WNBA MVP, recently shared why she decided to sit out. In an interview with Time, she said the choice came down to rest and personal well-being. “I like to enjoy my offseason. That’s my time to really just decompress,” Las Vegas Aces star said.

“Unrivaled seems great, my teammates are loving it. Obviously, the money in it is amazing. And it’s like, Dang, missing out. But wholeheartedly, not even trying to front, I just didn’t want to. I just want to protect my peace. Because once the season gets in, no one’s gonna think, Oh, you just got done playing Unrivaled, let’s take it easy.”

Unrivaled launched with the goal of providing players a way to stay stateside and earn during the offseason. Reports indicate salaries are averaging around $200,000, and players have a stake in the league’s equity.

The opening weekend drew an average of over 300,000 viewers per game. However, their best viewership came over the weekend, with the one-on-one tournament final peaking at 398,000 viewers.

Las Vegas’ offseason and the road ahead

Wilson’s decision also comes as she and the Aces look to regroup after their playoff exit. The Aces entered the postseason hoping to secure a third straight championship but fell to the New York Liberty in the semifinals. The loss ended their title defense and set the stage for an important offseason.

Becky Hammon will return for her fourth year as head coach. However, Plum and Sydney Colson won’t return. Training camp begins April 27, and the new season tips off May 17 at Barclays Center, where Las Vegas will face the defending champions, Liberty.