Aces vs. Mercury: WNBA Finals Game 1 - Can Vegas Keep the Crown?
The 2025 WNBA Finals are here, and basketball fans are buzzing! The Las Vegas Aces, seeded No. 2, are set to clash with the No. 4-seeded Phoenix Mercury in Game 1 of what promises to be an epic best-of-seven series. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET at the Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas.
Aces Aim for Dynasty, Mercury Seek Redemption
Both teams boast impressive championship pedigrees, but their journeys to the Finals have been strikingly different. The Aces, winners of two of the last three WNBA titles, underwent significant roster changes after a disappointing semifinal exit last year. Their season was marked by inconsistency until a shocking 53-point loss to the Minnesota Lynx on August 2 seemingly ignited a fire, propelling them to a 16-game winning streak to close out the regular season.
Las Vegas faced a tough challenge from the Indiana Fever in the semifinals, ultimately prevailing in a thrilling 107-98 overtime victory in Game 5. A'Ja Wilson, fresh off her record-breaking fourth MVP award, led the charge with a dominant 35-point performance.
Mercury's Quiet Resurgence
The Phoenix Mercury, with three WNBA championships in their history (the last one in 2014), quietly rebuilt their roster following the retirement of legend Diana Taurasi and the departure of Brittney Griner. A key acquisition was Alyssa Thomas, obtained in a multi-team trade. Despite a strong regular season, the Mercury were largely overlooked by analysts, fueling their motivation throughout the playoffs.
Aces' Mid-Season Turnaround
The Aces' path to the Finals wasn't always smooth. After that devastating loss to the Lynx, they were barely clinging to a playoff spot. Coach Becky Hammon found a unique way to motivate her team, shifting responsibility for scouting reports to the players. This newfound accountability seemed to be the turning point.
As A'ja Wilson said after clinching the series against the Fever, "We went through the mud for this one." Will that experience be enough to propel them to another championship? Or will the Mercury's underdog story continue?
Game 1: A Must-Watch
All eyes will be on Las Vegas tonight as the Aces and Mercury battle it out in Game 1. Don't miss what promises to be an exciting start to the 2025 WNBA Finals!