LAS VEGAS – The Las Vegas Aces kicked off their 2025 preseason with a thrilling 85-84 victory over the Phoenix Mercury on Tuesday night, thanks to a last-second jumper from rookie Deja Kelly. The game, held at the Michelob Ultra Arena, not only showcased the Aces' emerging talents but also celebrated A’ja Wilson’s new Nike signature shoe, the "Pink A’ura" A’One, in a themed event dubbed "A’One Night."
With just 3.8 seconds left on the clock, Kelly hit a midrange jumper that clinched the win for the Aces, marking her as a standout player in the match. The rookie point guard finished the game with 15 points and two assists in just 13 minutes of play, solidifying her position on the team as they prepare for the upcoming regular season, which opens on May 16 against New York.
“I think it’s just a sense of gratitude for this opportunity, to be able to play in this arena on (Wilson’s) special night, in front of all these fans, wearing this jersey,” Kelly said after the game. Her performance was a testament to her clutch shooting ability, reminiscent of her college days where she consistently delivered in high-pressure situations.
A’ja Wilson, the three-time WNBA MVP, added 14 points and six rebounds, playing a game-high 22 minutes. The arena was filled with pink decorations to honor Wilson’s new shoe, and she expressed her gratitude for the support: “I’m so appreciative of just my teammates, my coaches, the fans. It just kind of felt like a family reunion, and that’s what it’s all about.”
The Aces came into this game after a dominant 112-78 win over the Dallas Wings in their preseason opener, where Jackie Young led the team with a game-high 28 points. However, the Aces were missing key players Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, Dana Evans, and Megan Gustafson for this matchup.
Despite a shaky start, where the Aces trailed at halftime 47-46, coach Becky Hammon adjusted her strategy and relied heavily on her bench players. This decision paid off, with Kelly leading a late-game surge that included a buzzer-beating three-pointer to close the third quarter. “She’s been super solid,” Hammon said of Kelly. “I like what she does defensively. She has a natural physicality to her.”
As the game progressed, Kelly's scoring run became crucial. She scored six points in the final 46 seconds, including the game-winner, demonstrating her ability to perform under pressure. Her late-game heroics came after a series of strong performances throughout her college career, where she led teams to crucial victories.
Kelly's success is particularly significant as she was an undrafted player, making her rise to prominence in the Aces’ roster all the more inspiring. She reflected on her journey, stating, “That’s kind of what I’ve done my whole career, just trying to make things happen.”
The Aces' bench players also made notable contributions. Rookie Harmoni Turner scored her first WNBA points in the final quarter, while second-round pick Aaliyah Nye overcame a slow start to hit a critical three-pointer that put the Aces ahead late in the game. Nye finished with 17 points in their previous game and is quickly becoming a fan favorite.
“It’s their job to make my life difficult, and they’re making me make tough choices, that’s for sure,” Hammon said, referring to the competition among the rookies as the team prepares for roster cuts ahead of the regular season.
The Phoenix Mercury, on the other hand, are facing a transitional period, as this season marks the first time in 20 years without their legendary player Diana Taurasi, who retired this offseason. The Mercury finished seventh in the 2024 regular-season standings and were swept in the first round of the playoffs, indicating a need for a rebuilding phase.
In this game, the Mercury were led by their own promising talents, but ultimately fell short against the Aces. Despite the loss, the game provided valuable experience for Phoenix's younger players as they adapt to life without Taurasi.
The Aces will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their regular-season opener on May 16, while the Mercury will continue to develop their roster and strategies in the lead-up to their own season start.
As the WNBA season approaches, fans can expect more thrilling matchups, especially as teams finalize their rosters. With the Aces showcasing their depth and talent, they are poised for a competitive season ahead.
For those looking to catch the Aces in action, more than 33 games will be broadcast on Vegas 34 and Channel 13 this season, ensuring fans won’t miss a moment of the excitement.
