On May 6, 2025, the Las Vegas Aces edged out the Phoenix Mercury with a thrilling 85-84 victory in their final preseason game, showcasing a remarkable performance from rookie Deja Kelly.
Kelly, who had been overlooked in the 2025 WNBA Draft, emerged as the star of the night, scoring a game-high 15 points in just 13 minutes off the bench. Her highlight moment came when she sank a mid-range jumper with only 4.9 seconds remaining, sealing the Aces' narrow win. The crowd erupted as Kelly, affectionately dubbed "DEJA KELLY CALLS GAME!!!" by the Aces' social media, proved her worth on the court.
A’ja Wilson, the reigning WNBA MVP, celebrated the launch of her signature Nike shoe, the A’One, during the game. Wilson contributed significantly to the Aces’ success with 14 points, six rebounds, and three assists in just 22 minutes of action. Despite the spotlight on her, it was the rookie Kelly who stole the show.
Jewell Loyd also made her mark with an impressive performance, scoring 11 points and hitting three three-pointers, while Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young each added ten points to the scoreboard. Gray, returning to form, led the team with six assists and two steals, demonstrating her playmaking abilities.
The game was a nail-biter, with both teams exchanging leads in the closing minutes. Satou Sabally and Kathryn Westbeld led the Mercury, each scoring 14 points, and Westbeld's crucial three-pointer in the fourth quarter kept the Mercury competitive. However, Kelly's back-to-back shots in the final moments ensured the Aces maintained their edge.
As the Aces prepare for the regular season opener against the New York Liberty on May 17, 2025, fans are buzzing with excitement over Kelly's potential and the team's overall performance. The rematch against the Liberty, who ended the Aces' quest for a three-peat in last season's WNBA Semifinals, promises to be a highly anticipated showdown.
With her remarkable debut, Deja Kelly has not only solidified her place on the Aces’ roster but also hinted at a bright future in the WNBA. If she continues this trajectory, her aspirations of becoming a sports broadcaster might just have to wait as she carves out a successful career on the court.
