Title: A’ja Wilson’s Career High Propels Las Vegas Aces as Kelsey Plum Prepares to Step Up
Date: October 17, 2023
Las Vegas Aces forward A’ja Wilson showcased her exceptional skills as she scored a career-high 40 points and secured 10 rebounds in a recent victory, becoming the eighth player in WNBA history to achieve this feat. However, Wilson was quick to acknowledge the remarkable performance of her teammate, guard Kelsey Plum.
After the game, Wilson praised Plum for her growth and improvement as a player. Plum contributed 19 points, 10 assists, and shot an impressive 70% from the field. Wilson emphasized Plum’s dedication and hard work in developing her passing ability, which has been crucial to the Aces’ success.
Heading into Game 4 of the WNBA Finals against the New York Liberty, where the Aces hold a 2-1 lead, Plum will assume an even more significant role due to starting point guard Chelsea Gray’s foot injury. Aces coach Becky Hammon confirmed that Gray will miss Game 4, leaving Plum and Jackie Young to handle the point guard duties. Hammon also mentioned that center Kiah Stokes will be absent from the upcoming game.
Plum, who led the Aces with 29 points in Game 3, has been preparing for this moment throughout her six-season WNBA career. Plum has consistently expanded her game, particularly her passing skills, which have flourished under Hammon’s coaching. In the regular season, Plum averaged 18.7 points and 4.5 assists per game this year.
The Aces’ success in the playoffs has been partially credited to Plum’s contributions. In the team’s eight playoff games, she has averaged 19.8 points and 3.6 assists. Young, another key player for the Aces, has averaged 16.8 points and 4.8 assists in the playoffs.
Young, a former No. 1 pick, has shown tremendous growth as a player. While she initially excelled as a scorer, her focus on becoming a reliable three-point shooter has paid off. Young’s three-point shooting has improved significantly, with 89 made three-pointers so far this season.
Despite Gray’s absence, Plum expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adjust and overcome challenges. Plum acknowledged that the Aces need to improve their ball movement and player positioning to counter the Liberty’s defensive strategies from Game 3. She emphasized the importance of maintaining their pace, ball movement, and adjusting their playstyle to regain their offensive efficiency.
The Aces will rely on their talented roster, known for their teamwork and individual skills, as they seek to win the WNBA championship. While Gray’s injury poses a significant setback, Plum and the rest of the team are prepared to step up and give their all on the court.
The fourth game of the WNBA Finals between the Las Vegas Aces and the New York Liberty will take place at the Barclays Center on Wednesday at 8:00 PM ET and will be broadcast on ESPN/ESPN App.
Sources:
– ESPN.com