Aces 98 - Storm 77 (9/20/2026): Jackie Young's 23 Points Shine

The Las Vegas Aces reaffirmed their dominance in the Western Conference by defeating the Seattle Storm 98-77 at the Michelob ULTRA Arena. This game marked a significant step in the Aces' season, as they extended their winning streak to five games. On the other side, the Storm continued their difficult season, now standing at 8-35.

First Half Highlights

The Aces set the tone early in the first quarter, outpacing the Storm with a 29-18 lead. Jackie Young led the charge for Las Vegas, showcasing her offensive prowess with 23 points on the night. Seattle struggled to keep pace, despite showing some fight in the second quarter by narrowing the gap with a 25-23 margin.

At halftime, the Aces held a 52-43 lead over the Storm, with their effective shooting from beyond the arc making a noticeable difference. The Aces' ability to connect on 42.3% of their three-pointers was a significant factor in maintaining their advantage. Seattle, on the other hand, struggled with consistency, converting just 26.9% of their attempts from long range.

Second Half Surge

As the third quarter commenced, Las Vegas continued to assert their authority, outscoring the Storm 24-21. The defensive efforts of the Aces were instrumental in this stretch, forcing Seattle into numerous turnovers, which they capitalized on effectively. The Aces' balanced attack saw them keeping the pressure on the Storm throughout the quarter.

In the fourth quarter, the Aces left no doubt about the outcome, closing the game with a 22-13 run. The Storm's struggles were compounded by their inability to find answers for the Aces' offensive rhythm. Las Vegas' relentless performance saw them seal the victory with a final score of 98-77.

Key Performers and Statistics

Jackie Young was the standout performer for the Aces, contributing significantly to their offensive success with 23 points and 8 assists. Her shooting accuracy, hitting 10 of her 15 attempts, was a crucial element in the Aces' victory. The team as a whole shot 50.8% from the field, showcasing their efficiency.

Seattle's efforts were hindered by their 18 turnovers, limiting their ability to generate sustained offensive momentum. Awa Fam made a noticeable effort on the boards with 6 rebounds, but her shooting struggles were evident, hitting only 3 out of 14 attempts. The Storm's overall shooting percentage of 39.4% demonstrated their offensive challenges.

The Aces' defense also played a pivotal role, recording 13 steals and 5 blocks, effectively disrupting Seattle's offensive flow. In contrast, the Storm's defense recorded only 9 steals and 3 blocks, struggling to contain the Aces' multifaceted attack.

With this win, the Aces improved their record to 29-13, maintaining their strong position in the Western Conference standings. Their balanced play on both ends of the court has been a key contributor to their successful season thus far. As they prepare to host the Los Angeles Sparks, the Aces will aim to extend their winning streak.

The Seattle Storm, now on a four-game losing streak, will look to regroup as they prepare to face the Dallas Wings at home. The Storm's focus will be on tightening their defense and improving their shooting efficiency to turn their season around. The upcoming games present an opportunity for Seattle to find their rhythm and end the season on a positive note.