Las Vegas Aces vs. Chicago Sky Preview, Prediction, Schedule, and How to Watch the WNBA Playoffs

In a highly anticipated showdown, the defending champions, the Las Vegas Aces, faced off against the Chicago Sky in the first round of the WNBA playoffs. The Aces dominated with a 28-point victory in Game 1, followed by a convincing 92-70 win in Game 2, completing the series sweep. A’ja Wilson showcased her brilliance in the decisive game, recording a playoff career-high and franchise playoff record of 38 points, along with 16 rebounds, three steals, and four blocks.

With this series victory, the Aces have advanced to the semifinals for the fifth consecutive season and are one step closer to potentially repeating as champions, a feat last achieved by the Los Angeles Sparks in 2001 and 2002. The Aces now await the outcome of the series between the Dallas Wings and the Atlanta Dream, with the semifinals scheduled to begin on September 24, giving the Aces a well-deserved week of rest.

Series Recap:

Game 1: Aces 87, Sky 59 (Aces led 1-0)
Game 2: Aces 92, Sky 70 (Aces won series 2-0)
Players to Watch:

Aces: Chelsea Gray

While A’ja Wilson stands as the Aces’ top player, all eyes should be on Chelsea Gray in this series and throughout the playoffs. Gray was unstoppable in last year’s playoffs, contributing to the Aces’ championship with averages of 21.7 points, seven assists, and 3.8 rebounds while boasting impressive shooting splits of 61.1% from the field, 54.4% from beyond the arc, and 83.3% from the free-throw line. If Gray can replicate her postseason performance, the Aces will prove formidable opponents.

Sky: Kahleah Copper

Kahleah Copper’s performance often dictates the Sky’s fate. During the regular season, the Sky boasted a 10-7 record when Copper scored at least 20 points, but they struggled with a 7-16 record when she fell short of that mark. To have any chance of causing an upset, the Sky will rely heavily on Copper’s contributions. As the 2021 Finals MVP, Copper has a history of stepping up in the playoffs, but this series presents her toughest challenge yet.

Three Keys to the Series:

1. The 3-Point Battle:

Both teams excel at outside shooting, making the 3-point battle a critical aspect of this series. The Aces finished second in the league in both 3-point attempts per game (24.9) and 3-point percentage (37.2%), while the Sky ranked fifth in attempts (22.2) and tied for second in percentage (37.2%). Given the frequency and accuracy of their outside shooting, one outlier game could change the series dynamics. The performance of 3-point specialists from both teams will play a pivotal role.

2. Aces’ Dominance in the Paint:

The Aces boast A’ja Wilson, a dominant presence in the paint, and were among the league’s best at scoring in that area during the regular season. Their 38.4 points in the paint per game ranked third, and they led the league with a 66.8% shooting percentage within five feet. Additionally, they averaged 19.5 free throws per game, ranking fourth. The Sky, with their vulnerability in defending shots within five feet, may struggle to contain the Aces’ interior scoring.

3. Sky’s Ball Control:

To stand a chance against the Aces’ formidable defense, the Sky must limit turnovers. Unfortunately, they have struggled with ball control throughout the season, with the highest turnover percentage among playoff teams at 17.8%. While the Aces may not lead in forcing turnovers, they capitalize on mistakes, ranking third in the league with 17.1 points off turnovers per game. The Sky’s ability to protect the ball will be crucial in avoiding extra scoring opportunities for the Aces.

Prediction:

The Aces are the clear favorites in this matchup, boasting superior talent and a remarkable 19-1 home record during the season compared to the Sky’s total of 18 wins. Expect the Aces to secure a comfortable two-game sweep. Prediction: Aces in 2.