The Las Vegas Aces made history on Friday, October 10, 2025, by defeating the Phoenix Mercury 97-86 in Game 4 of the WNBA Finals, completing a four-game sweep and clinching their third championship in four seasons. The decisive victory took place in Phoenix, Arizona, marking a significant achievement for the franchise.

A'ja Wilson, the reigning league MVP and a four-time MVP overall, was instrumental in the Aces' triumph, scoring 31 points in the final game. Her stellar performance throughout the series earned her the Finals MVP award for the second time in her career. Wilson averaged 28.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, four assists, one steal, and two blocks per game during the Finals.

Supporting Wilson's dominant play were Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young, who each contributed 18 points in Game 4. Gray, a six-time WNBA All-Star and 2022 Finals MVP, made crucial three-pointers in the fourth quarter to fend off a Mercury rally. Young, a three-time WNBA All-Star and the 2022 Most Improved Player, also played a vital role in the Aces' consistent offensive output.

Historical and Political Context

The Aces' recent success places them among the WNBA's most dominant franchises. Their three championships in a four-year span are a testament to their sustained excellence, a feat not seen since the Houston Comets won four consecutive titles from 1997 to 2000. The franchise, originally established as the Utah Starzz in 1997, relocated to San Antonio in 2003 and then to Las Vegas in 2018, where it adopted its current name.

The Phoenix Mercury, an original WNBA franchise founded in 1997, have a rich history with three WNBA championships in 2007, 2009, and 2014. Their journey to the 2025 Finals marked their sixth appearance in the championship series. Despite a valiant effort, led by Kahleah Copper's 30 points and Alyssa Thomas's triple-double in Game 4, the Mercury were unable to overcome the Aces' formidable performance.

Evidence and Data

Risks and Implications

The dominance of the Las Vegas Aces raises questions about competitive balance within the WNBA. While their success is celebrated, it also highlights the challenge for other franchises to build rosters capable of consistently competing at this elite level. For the Mercury, despite the loss, reaching the finals demonstrates their resilience and potential for future contention, especially with key players like Alyssa Thomas delivering strong performances.

What to Watch

Looking ahead, the WNBA will likely see continued scrutiny on team building and player development strategies across the league. The Aces will aim to extend their dynasty, while other teams will be strategizing to counter their formidable lineup. The performances of individual stars like A'ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, and Jackie Young will remain a focal point, as will the efforts of teams like the Phoenix Mercury to close the gap and vie for future championships.