Jackie Hits 3K, Gray Nears History in Aces Loss to Liberty
Last night’s game against the Liberty had everything history in the making, a gritty back and forth battle, and a heartbreaking loss that stung a little more than usual. It wasn’t the outcome the Aces wanted in Brooklyn, taking an 87–78 loss to the Liberty but the night still delivered some powerful moments and career defining highlights.
First off, Jackie Young hit a major milestone, becoming just the 5th player in Aces franchise history to reach 3,000 career points. She’s been rock solid all season, and last night was no different finishing with 19 points and helping keep the Aces in it down the stretch.
Then there's Chelsea Gray, who is now only two steals away from becoming just the 5th player in WNBA history with 4,000+ points, 1,000+ rebounds, 1,500+ assists, 400+ steals, and 100+ blocks. That’s legend level company.
But the biggest moment of the night that nobody wanted to see A’ja Wilson injured her right wrist with 4:13 remaining in the second quarter. She subbed out at the 2:22 mark and did not return to the game. That also ended her streak of 66 straight games scoring in double figures, the longest active streak in the WNBA and sixth longest all time. The Aces and fans will be hoping for good news. We are sending her lots of love.
Game Breakdown
The Aces started off cold in the first, shooting under 30%. NaLyssa Smith gave the team a lift with 6 points, but it was a tough opening stretch offensively. Even with the early struggles, the Aces trailed by just three after the first quarter.
The second quarter brought more energy. Gray, Young, and Loyd each dropped in 6 points, and the Aces closed the half on a strong note, taking a 42–40 lead into the break. Even after Wilson’s injury, the team responded with toughness and focus.
In the third quarter, the Aces pushed their lead to as much as seven, but Sabrina Ionescu got hot and the Liberty answered. The Aces continued to shoot well from the field, but costly turnovers allowed New York to regain control heading into the fourth.
With just under five minutes remaining, the Aces still led 72–70. But that’s when things unraveled. Three missed shots and three turnovers opened the door for a 10–0 Liberty run. Despite 5 points each from Dana Evans and Smith in the final minutes, the Aces couldn’t close the gap.
Final Stats That Mattered:
Jackie Young: 19 PTS, 7 REB, 3 AST
Dana Evans: 16 PTS off the bench
Chelsea Gray: 11 PTS, 7 REB, 3 AST
NaLyssa Smith: 11 PTS
Jewell Loyd: 10 PTS
As a team, the Aces shot 41% from the field, just under 27% from three, and almost 88% from the free throw line. However, 16 turnovers and critical late game execution lapses proved costly.
Up Next:
The Aces wrap up their five game road trip on July 10, against the Washington Mystics. Tip off is set for 4:30 PM PT at EagleBank Arena and will air on Prime Video and Vegas 34.