Kelsey Plum Leads Aces to Dominant Victory, Extending Winning Streak
LAS VEGAS – Kelsey Plum delivered another jaw-dropping performance on Wednesday night, leading the Las Vegas Aces to a commanding 98-75 victory over the Chicago Sky at the Michelob Ultra Arena. Plum’s performance was a key factor in the Aces’ seventh consecutive win, a streak that has further cemented their place as one of the top teams in the WNBA.
With a game-high 28 points, Plum proved once again why she is considered one of the league’s premier players. The 2022 WNBA Finals MVP has been in stellar form this season, and her effort on Wednesday night was no exception. The 5-foot-8 guard displayed her usual ability to score efficiently, hitting 10 of 15 shots from the field and sinking 5 of 7 from beyond the arc.
“It feels great to be in a rhythm,” Plum said after the game. “We’ve been working really hard as a team, and it’s showing. We’re locked in defensively, and offensively, I’m just trying to stay aggressive and take what the defense gives me. Tonight was one of those nights where everything clicked.”
Plum’s hot shooting was just one part of the Aces’ all-around dominance. The team executed at a high level on both ends of the court, showing the depth that has made them a formidable contender throughout the season. A’ja Wilson, the Aces’ reigning MVP, contributed a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds, while Chelsea Gray dished out 8 assists, orchestrating the offense and keeping the Sky’s defense on its heels.
Las Vegas dominated from the opening tip, jumping out to an early lead thanks to their aggressive defense and fast-paced offense. The Aces were able to shut down Chicago’s offense, forcing 14 turnovers and limiting the Sky to just 39% shooting from the field. Chicago’s Candace Parker, who was expected to lead the charge, struggled to find her rhythm, finishing with only 12 points and 5 rebounds.
“The defensive effort was outstanding,” Aces head coach Becky Hammon remarked after the game. “We forced them into tough shots, and that’s what we’ve been working on all season—being disciplined without compromising our offensive flow. We’re starting to see the results of that work.”
The Aces built an insurmountable lead by halftime, leading by 18 points at the break. The second half was a showcase of Las Vegas’ depth and execution, with Plum continuing her hot streak and the rest of the roster contributing solid minutes. The team’s balanced attack kept Chicago at arm’s length, and by the fourth quarter, the game was out of reach.
The win extends the Aces’ remarkable winning streak to seven games, positioning them as the team to beat in the WNBA as they march toward the postseason. With the win, Las Vegas improves to 18-5 on the season and remains atop the league standings.
For Plum, the streak and the team’s success are a reflection of the hard work and cohesion that the Aces have built under Hammon’s leadership.
“This team is special,” Plum said. “We have such a great mix of experience and youth. Everyone is playing their part, and we’re feeding off each other. We’re not satisfied yet; we want more, but we’re definitely on the right track.”
As the Aces head into a challenging stretch of games next week, they will look to continue their impressive run, with Plum at the forefront of their quest for another championship.
