It had been a rough start to the campaign in Las Vegas. A franchise that had become accustomed to success — winning the WNBA championship in two consecutive seasons (2023 and 2024) — found itself falling to a record of 14-14.
With the reigning WNBA Most Valuable Player A'ja Wilson on the roster, the Aces could not afford to rest on their laurels and settle for mediocrity in 2025. However, the Western Conference giants continued to turn in lackluster defensive showings and heavily relied on the magic of Wilson to stay competitive in games; it was going to take an ingenious move by the front office to pivot the team's destiny.
Na'Lyssa Smith is making an impact in Las Vegas
In a trade that saw the physical forward Na'Lyssa Smith move to Las Vegas from the Dallas Wings in exchange for the Aces' first round 2027 WNBA Draft pick, the Nevada-based franchise acquired a player who could relieve the rebounding burden that Wilson is currently carrying.
After an underwhelming stint in Dallas — in which she averaged 5.3 points and four points over 17 games — it would have been understandable if the Aces fan base could not picture a scenario where this acquisition propelled them into championship contention; yet, it has turned their whole campaign around.
Since the arrival of the 25-year-old, Las Vegas has won 13 of its 19 matchups and currently boasts a seven-game win streak, claiming the scalps of reigning WNBA champions, the New York Liberty in the process.
The Baylor graduate has slotted into the starting lineup with ease, taking up a selfless role that has elevated the performances of her talented colleagues. Smith has averaged 7.9 points and 6.2 rebounds per game during 22.5 minutes on the floor. Smith's impressive efficiency has been a standout attribute during her time with the Aces so far, shooting 70% or above from the floor on six occasions.
As the in-form team in the WNBA after the acquisition of NaLyssa Smith, the Las Vegas Aces will feel optimistic that this resurgence can translate into a championship. Of course, the Minnesota Lynx have also strengthened from a position of power over recent weeks by adding Dijonai Carrington to the roster in a trade with the Dallas Wings, and they will be considered as the franchise to beat to be crowned champions.