Las Vegas Aces were defeated 3-1 in the WNBA Semi-finals by the New York Liberty.

Mark Davis, Las Vegas’ owner, and the Aces’ fanbase thought they had a chance at a championship ring last year before they finally succumbed to defeat against New York.

There was cause for optimism after a hugely successful regular season campaign – leading the league in points per game and entering the playoffs with a 27-13 record.

To build the supporters hopes even higher, the Las Vegas Aces had the power to unleash the player who would be deservedly crowned MVP, A’ja Wilson.

Wilson had a scintillating year as she bulldozed her way to the MVP award – averaging an immense 26.9 ppg, 11.9 rpg and 2.6 bpg.

In a year where the 28 year-old looked like she was in the peak of her powers, WNBA experts all tipped Las Vegas to win their third consecutive championship.

However, Sabrina Ionescu and the Liberty put in a stellar performance to end their reign of terror.

Free agency nightmare

Post-seasons can feel like a nuclear warzone for any franchise, the Las Vegas Aces now know that more than any other team – losing several players, including superstar Kelsey Plum.

Plum was a vital cog in the system that Head Coach, Becky Hammon, has constructed – scoring 17.8 ppg in 34 minutes on the court.

To add more anguish to the hearts of loyal fans, the side based in Nevada have lost key pieces from their bench – Alysha Clark being the most notable departure.

Many fans of the league expected some slight modifications to their roster, but this is beginning to feel like a complete overhaul.

Las Vegas roll the dice

However, all is not lost for the former champions as they have made moves in the off-season which have added to their explosive arsenal.

Jewell Loyd, formerly of Seattle Storm, has been the latest addition that has got the tabloids talking.

In the 2024 season, Loyd averaged 19.7 ppg and 1.4 steals per game – highlighting the defensive hustle that the former Notre Dame graduate brings to the team.

In addition to this, another veteran presence will be entering the Las Vegas locker room – Cheyenne Parker-Tyus arriving to bolster the forward position.

The 32 year-old displayed that she can still make an impact from the bench in 2024 playing for Atlanta Dream – scoring 9.2 ppg and claiming 4,8 rpg.

It will be a mammoth task for the Las Vegas Aces to turn the perceived sinking ship around and win the WNBA Finals but with A’ja Wilson in your ranks, anything is possible.