The Sky vs Aces matchup once again delivered everything WNBA fans hoped for—intensity, momentum swings, clutch performances, and overtime drama. Despite mounting an impressive comeback in the second half, the Chicago Sky fell 98-90 to the Las Vegas Aces after overtime, extending the Aces’ dominance in the season series.
The contest showcased why Las Vegas remains one of the league’s elite teams. Even without superstar A’ja Wilson, the Aces found enough offense from NaLyssa Smith, Chelsea Gray, Jewell Loyd, and Jackie Young to overcome Chicago’s resilient effort.
Sky vs Aces: A Game Filled with Momentum Swings
The Aces controlled the opening half from the opening tip. Their balanced offense and efficient shooting helped them build a comfortable 49-37 halftime advantage.
Chicago struggled early to establish offensive rhythm, but their defense improved significantly after halftime. The Sky gradually erased the deficit through aggressive drives, improved ball movement, and timely shooting.
By the fourth quarter, Chicago had completely shifted momentum and even grabbed its first lead of the evening during a remarkable comeback.
However, championship-caliber teams know how to respond under pressure, and Las Vegas did exactly that.
Chelsea Gray Takes Over Late
When the game reached its most critical moments, veteran point guard Chelsea Gray reminded everyone why she remains one of the league’s most dependable closers.
With Chicago holding a slim lead late in regulation, Gray calmly knocked down the tying jumper to force overtime. Once the extra period began, she controlled the pace, created quality possessions, and hit two enormous baskets that effectively sealed the victory.
Her leadership proved invaluable for an Aces squad playing without its biggest star.
NaLyssa Smith Enjoys Her Best Night
The biggest individual story from the Sky vs Aces matchup belonged to NaLyssa Smith.
Smith produced one of her finest performances of the season by scoring 29 points while adding eight rebounds. She shot efficiently throughout the contest, finishing consistently around the basket and converting key free throws late in the game.
Her offensive explosion gave Las Vegas the interior production it desperately needed.
Alongside Smith:
- Jewell Loyd scored 19 points.
- Chelsea Gray contributed 18 points and six assists.
- Jackie Young finished with 16 points, six rebounds, and five assists.
The balanced scoring attack highlighted the impressive depth of the defending contenders.
Chicago Sky Show Encouraging Progress
Although Chicago ultimately suffered another close defeat, there were plenty of positive signs.
Skylar Diggins led the team with 19 points while providing steady leadership throughout the comeback.
Kamilla Cardoso recorded a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds, continuing her development as one of the franchise’s foundational young players. Natasha Cloud added 15 points, while Courtney Vandersloot contributed valuable minutes after recently returning from injury.
Chicago’s improved second-half defense nearly completed an impressive upset.
Fourth Quarter Collapse Hurts the Sky
The most frustrating aspect for Chicago was how close they came to stealing the victory.
After erasing a double-digit deficit and taking the lead, the Sky failed to execute during the closing possessions of regulation.
A costly turnover and missed opportunities allowed Las Vegas to stay alive before Gray’s clutch basket tied the score.
Overtime belonged almost entirely to the Aces, who opened the period with a decisive scoring run and never looked back.
These late-game execution issues continue to be an area Chicago must improve as the season progresses.
Aces Continue Winning Despite Injuries
One impressive takeaway from the game was Las Vegas’ ability to win without A’ja Wilson.
Wilson missed her second consecutive contest because of injury, yet the Aces still demonstrated their championship experience.
Rather than relying on one superstar, multiple players stepped forward to share the offensive load.
That depth could become extremely valuable during the long WNBA season.
What the Result Means
The victory improves Las Vegas’ record to 15-5 while keeping them among the WNBA’s top championship contenders. Chicago, meanwhile, falls to 6-14 despite showing encouraging competitiveness against one of the league’s strongest teams.
For the Aces, the focus now shifts toward maintaining momentum until Wilson returns.
For the Sky, learning how to close tight games remains the biggest challenge moving forward.
Fans React to Sky vs Aces
WNBA fans praised the game’s competitive nature, especially the dramatic finish.
Many highlighted Chelsea Gray’s clutch shot-making and NaLyssa Smith’s breakout performance, while Chicago supporters expressed frustration over another narrow loss after such an impressive comeback. Discussion across fan communities centered on the Sky’s inability to finish games despite significant progress throughout the second half.
Final Thoughts
The latest Sky vs Aces showdown perfectly demonstrated why the WNBA continues to attract growing attention. It featured elite shot-making, defensive adjustments, dramatic momentum changes, and a thrilling overtime finish.
Las Vegas once again proved why championship teams rarely panic under pressure. Even without A’ja Wilson, the Aces leaned on veteran leadership from Chelsea Gray and an outstanding performance from NaLyssa Smith to escape with a hard-earned 98-90 victory.
Chicago may have left Las Vegas disappointed, but its spirited comeback showed that the rebuilding Sky are becoming increasingly competitive. If they can improve their late-game execution, performances like this could soon turn heartbreaking defeats into statement victories.
