After a stunning Game 1 loss where they were out hustled and outplayed by the Indiana Fever, the Las Vegas Aces roared back with a dominant 90-68 victory in Game 2 to even the best of five semifinals series. While the team's championship resolve was on full display, the real test begins now as the series shifts to Indianapolis for Games 3 and 4. The road to the WNBA Finals will depend on two critical factors: controlling the tempo and staying locked in on defense.

Head coach Becky Hammon has been vocal about the series intense, "out of control" physicality. Her frustration with the officiating and the level of contact highlights the challenge the Aces face. Aces proven they can match the Fever's toughness, but in a hostile environment, maintaining discipline will be crucial.

"The physicality is out of control, that's for sure," Hammon said in her post game press conference. "You can bump and grab a wide receiver in the NFL for those first five yards, but you can do it in the W for the whole half court. You put two hands on somebody like that, it should be an automatic foul. The freedom of movement? There's no freedom."

As the series moves to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, The Aces have to dictate the pace of the game. The Fever's fast paced offense thrives on creating chaos and easy transition buckets. By controlling the tempo, Aces can slow down the game, limit turnovers, and force Indiana into a half court battle where there superior talent and offensive sets can take over. A deliberate pace allows for better shot selection and more organized play, something that was a hallmark of our Game 2 victory.

"Most of my assistants come from the NBA, and they're like, This would not fly in the NBA. There would be fights,'" Hammon added, noting the difference in physicality between the two leagues. "We just have very well mannered women that can get to the next play, but there would be fights."

Aces defensive effort in Game 2 was a masterclass, forcing 22 Fever turnovers and converting them into 28 points. That same level of intensity will be non negotiable on the road. Aces must stay locked in on defense, communicating effectively, and making sure every possession is a grind for the Fever. This is especially true when it comes to containing the Fever's key players like Kelsey Mitchell, who was held to just 13 points in Game 2 after a 34 point outburst in Game 1.

Aces showed that they can respond to adversity in Game 2. Now, they must prove that they can impose our will in a high stakes, pressure filled road environment. Controlling the tempo and maintaining a championship level defensive intensity will be the keys to victory.

By the Numbers: A Deeper Dive into the Aces Game 2 Performance

The Aces dominance was a total team effort, with five players scoring in double figures. Here's a closer look at the key performances and statistical highlights that fueled the victory:

A'ja Wilson: The newly crowned 2025 WNBA MVP didn't just lead the way; she sent a clear message. After an uncharacteristic off night in Game 1, Wilson was unstoppable, dropping a game-high 25 points, grabbing 9 rebounds, and picking up a playoff career high 5 steals. Her historic performance continued to etch her name in the record books, as she became only the third player in WNBA playoff history to reach at least 900 points, 450 rebounds, 100 blocks, 100 assists, and 50 steals. Wilson also climbed the all-time playoff lists, passing Lindsay Whalen for 7th in all-time playoff scoring and Seimone Augustus for 5th in all-time playoff field goals made.

NaLyssa Smith: The former Fever forward was a force against her old team, scoring a playoff career high 18 points on an incredibly efficient 7 for 9 shooting. She also pulled down 7 rebounds, providing a much needed boost in the frontcourt and showing her versatility on both ends of the floor.

Jackie Young: The team's engine and defensive specialist, Jackie Young, filled up the stat sheet with 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists. She also tied Allie Quigley for 18th on the all-time playoffs three pointers made list with 68.

Jewell Loyd & Dana Evans: The bench provided a crucial spark, outscoring Indiana's reserves 24-6. Jewell Loyd came in and immediately made an impact with 10 points, including a huge three pointer in the first quarter that gave the Aces the lead for good. Dana Evans continued to be a reliable and aggressive offensive threat off the bench, adding 10 points of her own and reaching 102 career playoff points.

Chelsea Gray: While not scoring in double figures, Chelsea Gray was the orchestrator of the Aces offense, dishing out a game high 10 assists. Her playmaking was essential in getting her teammates open looks and controlling the flow of the game. Her three steals also moved her past Penny Taylor for 15th on the all-time playoff steals list.

This comprehensive team effort shows that the Aces are more than just one or two players. Their collective talent and determination will be key as they head to Indiana.

Up Next:

Game 3: Friday, Sept. 26 at 4:30 p.m. PDT on ESPN2

Game 4: Sunday, Sept. 28 at 12 p.m. PDT on ABC

Aces Even the Series, Now It's About Controlling the Tempo on the Road

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