Aces dominate Storm in opener of first-round WNBA playoffs series

Summary

The Las Vegas Aces outclassed the Seattle Storm 102-77 in Game 1 of their best-of-three first-round WNBA playoff series at Michelob ULTRA Arena. Coach Becky Hammon’s pre-game directive — start with defence and be present — set the tone as the Aces opened with a decisive 17-5 run and never looked back. A’ja Wilson led the way with 29 points as Las Vegas extended a franchise-record 17-game win streak. Jackie Young (18 points, seven assists) and Jewell Loyd (14) made major contributions, while Seattle struggled to build momentum despite Gabby Williams’ 16 points.

Key Points

Final score: Aces 102, Storm 77 — a controlled, comprehensive victory for Las Vegas.
A’ja Wilson led the Aces with 29 points and strong defensive presence (including multiple blocks).
Jackie Young added 18 points and seven assists; Jewell Loyd scored 14 against her former team.
The Aces extended a franchise-record 17-game win streak and are 7-0 in first-round games under Becky Hammon.
Seattle was outplayed early and couldn’t recover — coach and players cited readiness and responsiveness as issues.
Game 2 is scheduled for Tuesday at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle — Las Vegas will look to finish the series quickly.

Context and relevance

This result underlines the Aces’ dominance this season and bolsters A’ja Wilson’s MVP credentials; if she secures the award it would be a league-first fourth MVP. For the Storm, the loss highlights issues with game preparation and in-game responsiveness when matched against a top seed. Locally and within the WNBA, this is a key early playoff signal: the Aces look peaking and dangerous, while Seattle must adjust quickly to avoid an early exit.

Why should I read this?

Look — if you care about the WNBA or want to know whether the Aces are real championship contenders this year, this is the quick lowdown you need. Big score, big performances, and a proper statement that sets up a tense Game 2 in Seattle. Saves you the replay watch if you just need the headlines and what it means next.

Author style

Punchy: this match report cuts to the chase — big plays, momentum swings and the names you need to remember. If you follow the Aces or the WNBA, the details matter and this one’s worth a closer read.