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COLUMBIA, SC – MAY 11: A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces shoots the ball during the game against the Puerto Rico National Team during the WNBA Preseason Game on May 11, 2024 at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Travis Bell/NBAE via Getty Images)
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COLUMBIA, SC – MAY 11: A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces shoots the ball during the game against the Puerto Rico National Team during the WNBA Preseason Game on May 11, 2024 at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Travis Bell/NBAE via Getty Images)
The Las Vegas Aces sent a wave of worry among their supporters when they stepped against the New York Liberty without their star player, A’ja Wilson. While her absence was inevitably felt with the Aces losing the game, restricting Wilson’s involvement was a precautionary move after her recent minor injury. But can Las Vegas gain anything from their 2x WNBA MVP’s absence? Sheryl Swoopes believes yes.
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Recently, the WNBA legend discussed Wilson’s unavailability in Aces’ final matchup of the season with the Liberty. While she asserted that the team should ensure the Columbia native is present in crucial games ahead, she revealed how her absence brings an opportunity that could be a plus for the Sin City-based team. “When you lose a player like A’ja, who is all everything for the Aces, it’s an opportunity for someone else. I think you saw that even though they lost the game,” stated Swoopes via Queens of the Court.
When Wilson missed the game at Barclays Center, the head coach Becky Hammon decided to give better playing time to players who usually don’t see themselves clocking a lot of minutes. Swoopes highlighted, “I think you saw that with Kiah Stokes. It’s an opportunity for you to come in, step up and show the coach and staff and everybody else what you can really do for this team. And then you’re bringing players off the bench. Syd Colson, we know what Syd’s going to bring, the energy she brings, the defense she brings.”
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NEW YORK, NY – JULY 14: A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces celebrates with Kelsey Plum #10 against the New York Liberty at Barclays Center on July 14, 2022 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Las Vegas Aces defeated the New York Liberty 108-74. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Well, the former legend’s argument seemed valid considering Kiah Stokes recorded 27 minutes on the clock after not getting more than 15 minutes in the last five games. The guard made nine rebounds, despite not adding to the team’s scoring, playing a crucial role on the defensive front. Not just Stokes, but even Sydney Colson, who despite getting just nine minutes, notched eight points on 3 of 8 shooting from the field. She was also 50% from beyond the arc.
Well, these players surely have an opportunity to prove their worth and add depth to the squad. But Aces supporters expect their MVP frontrunner to return soon to finish what she started.
The Aces’ path to playoffs amidst A’ja Wilson’s absence
While the defending champions have already booked their playoff berth, they still have five games in the regular season. These games are going to be crucial as Becky Hammon’s crew will be aiming to finish in the top four slot for home-court advantage in the playoffs.
Just having an advantage of a single win over fifth-place Seattle Storm, the Aces will play the game against their chasers next week. With that in mind, Wilson is a much-needed asset for the Aces as she has been influential against Storm in their last three encounters. The 28-year-old forward has scored 80 points and 40 rebounds against Seattle this season.
Wilson suffered an ankle injury against Connecticut on Sunday. However, head coach Becky Hammon revealed her decision to give A’ja Wilson some rest to ensure she is fully fit for the knockout rounds. But as Swoopes highlighted the silver lining, Las Vegas will now navigate its depth and versatility. With their leader missing, the team’s overall performance will depend on the collective effort and can be a plus point before heading to the playoffs.
Written by
Edited by
Srashti Sharma