Can the Las Vegas Aces Go for a WNBA Three-Peat Championship?

Can the Las Vegas Aces Go for the WNBA 3-Peat?

The Las Vegas Aces have been one of the most dominant teams in the WNBA over the last few seasons. After winning championships in 2020 and 2022, the Aces are in a position to potentially 3-peat and establish themselves as a dynasty.

The Aces Core Has Stayed Mostly Intact

A key factor that could contribute to the Aces going for a 3-peat is that their core group of players has remained mostly the same over the recent years. The star duo of A'ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray is back, along with other key contributors like Kelsey Plum, Jackie Young, and Dearica Hamby.

Wilson continues to play at an MVP level as one of the most versatile and athletic bigs in the women's game. Her scoring, rebounding, and defensive abilities make her a force inside. Gray runs a fluid offense with excellent court vision and scoring ability when needed. Plum had a breakout year in 2022, winning Sixth Woman of the Year while providing a scoring punch off the bench. Young brings versatility at both ends. And Hamby contrubutes rebounding and hustle plays.

Incoming Talent and Depth

In addition to their strong core, the Aces brought in more talent to bolster their roster. They signed former All-Star guard Danielle Robinson to add more backcourt depth. And they traded for solid wing Theresa Plaisance.

Las Vegas also has young players ready to step into bigger roles, like Riquna Williams, a veteran sharpshooter, and Mya Hollingshed, a versatile forward. With a deep bench, the Aces should be able to keep legs fresh throughout the long WNBA season.

What Could Stop the Aces From Making WNBA History?

While everything looks positive for a potential 3-peat run, the Aces face some challenges in trying to cement themselves as an all-time great WNBA dynasty.

Increased Competition in the WNBA

The level of competition across the WNBA continues to grow each season. Teams like the Chicago Sky, Connecticut Sun, and Seattle Storm have the talent to match up with the Aces on any given night during the playoffs.

Reigning MVP Sabrina Ionescu could lead an improved New York Liberty squad. Or surprise teams might emerge to challenge Las Vegas for supremacy.

With every team gunning for the champions, the Aces will have to bring their best effort night in and night out.

Risk of Injury

Injury issues could also derail hopes of a 3-peat. If one of their stars goes down during the regular season or playoffs, it could shift the balance of power. Teams need luck on the injury front to string together championships.

Las Vegas has good depth. But losing an elite talent like Wilson, Plum or Gray for any stretch could cost them wins.

League Parity

Finally, the overall parity in women's basketball makes it extremely difficult to win back-to-back-to-back titles. Only two WNBA teams have 3-peated before: the Houston Comets from 1997-2000 and the Los Angeles Sparks from 2001-2003.

Stringing together playoff series wins against tough competition three years straight requires both talent and mental stamina. Even for a great team like the Aces, it's an uphill climb.

The Aces Have the Pieces to Make a Run

Despite the challenges, the Las Vegas Aces have an excellent opportunity in 2023 to bring home a third straight championship. Their superstar talents, depth across the roster, continuity from previous years, and coach Becky Hammon's leadership gives them a fighting chance.

A 3-peat would firmly establish this version of the Aces as one of the WNBA's best ever teams. And they seem poised to contend for more titles even beyond 2023. Other teams shouldn't take the target off their backs anytime soon.

FAQs

Who are the key players for the Las Vegas Aces?

The Aces are led by the superstar duo of forward A'ja Wilson and guard Chelsea Gray. Other key contributors include guard Kelsey Plum, forward Dearica Hamby, and guard Jackie Young.

How many championships have the Las Vegas Aces won?

The Aces have won the last two WNBA championships in 2020 and 2022. They are seeking to 3-peat in 2023 after establishing themselves as one of the most dominant teams in the league.

Has any other WNBA team won 3 straight championships?

Only two other WNBA teams have accomplished a 3-peat. The Houston Comets 3-peated from 1997-2000. The Los Angeles Sparks also 3-peated from 2001-2003. The Aces will look to join this exclusive company with another title.

Who might challenge the Aces in pursuit of another championship?

Top contenders that could challenge the Aces include the 2021 champion Chicago Sky, the Connecticut Sun who had the league's best record in 2022, the perennial contending Seattle Storm, an improved New York Liberty squad, or potential surprise dark horse teams.