A’ja Wilson’s Game-Winner Puts Aces on the Brink of a Dynasty

With the win, the Aces take a commanding 3-0 lead in the first-ever best-of-seven WNBA Finals series. They are now just one victory away from cementing themselves as one of the league’s greatest dynasties.

Wilson’s Heroics Seal a Clutch Road Win

The game was a roller-coaster of momentum, culminating in a tense final minute. After an early 17-0 run by the Aces was quickly countered by the Mercury, Las Vegas built what looked like a comfortable 76-59 lead heading into the fourth quarter. However, the Mercury, fueled by a ferocious home crowd and a heroic effort from DeWanna Bonner and Kahleah Copper, stormed back to tie the game at 88 with just over a minute left.

With the game tied and the clock winding down, Aces coach Becky Hammon called a timeout with five seconds left to draw up a play. Everyone in the arena knew where the ball was going, and A’ja Wilson delivered. Operating from the elbow, the four-time MVP faced up her defender, spun back to the middle of the lane, and knocked down a tough, contested jumper over the outstretched arms of multiple Mercury defenders. The shot rattled around the rim before dropping, sending the Aces’ bench into a frenzy.

Wilson was utterly dominant, finishing with a Finals career-high 34 points to go along with 14 rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. Her 291 total points this postseason also set a new WNBA playoff record.

“I just needed the bucket to go in,” Wilson said after the game. “I didn’t see who was in front of me. I didn’t care. It’s the Finals.”

Key Performers and a Valiant Mercury Effort

While Wilson took the spotlight, she had ample help:

• Jackie Young added a stellar performance with 21 points and nine assists.
• Off the bench, Jewell Loyd provided a critical spark, scoring 16 points—12 of which came from four three-pointers in a single first-quarter outburst.

For the Phoenix Mercury, the effort was commendable, even in defeat. DeWanna Bonner led the team with 25 points, showcasing her veteran leadership. Satou Sabally added 24 points before leaving the game in the fourth quarter with an apparent head injury.

Despite trailing for virtually the entire contest, Phoenix’s fourth-quarter surge, which saw them outscore the Aces 29-14 in the frame, demonstrated their desperation and resolve. However, in the end, they could not overcome the sheer force of A’ja Wilson.

What’s Next: History Awaits

With the Aces up 3-0 in the best-of-seven series, they have their first opportunity to clinch their third consecutive WNBA championship in Game 4.

The series remains in Phoenix for the potential title-clinching game tomorrow. The Mercury are now in a near-impossible situation, facing a deficit that no team in WNBA history has ever overcome. For the Aces, the goal is simple: finish the job and hoist the trophy.

2025 WNBA Finals Series Score: