Las Vegas Aces Reload for Another Title Run
Christian Conway
April 13, 2026
The Las Vegas Aces aren’t rebuilding—they’re reloading.
With Jackie Young officially back in the fold, Chelsea Gray agreeing to a multi-year return, and A’ja Wilson expected to finalize her next deal, Las Vegas is bringing its championship nucleus back together. In a league that’s seen aggressive movement in free agency, the Aces are doubling down on continuity—and betting that their core still sets the standard.
Image courtesy of Las Vegas Aces via Instagram
Jackie Young: From No. 1 Pick to Franchise Anchor
Jackie Young’s return isn’t just about production—it’s about identity.
Since being selected No. 1 overall in 2019, Young has grown into one of the most reliable two-way guards in the WNBA. What once looked like steady development has now turned into sustained excellence. Over the past four seasons, she’s consistently delivered as both a scorer and facilitator, evolving into a player defenses have to game plan for every night.
Her 2025 season was a reminder of just how complete her game has become. Efficient scoring, improved playmaking, and the ability to take over in big moments all showed up when it mattered most—especially during the Aces’ championship run, where she elevated her play even further in the postseason.
But beyond the numbers, Young’s value is in her versatility. She doesn’t need the offense built around her to dominate a game. She fits, adapts, and still impacts winning at a high level. That’s what makes her indispensable to this group.
Chelsea Gray’s return might be the most important piece of this entire equation.
Chelsea Gray: The Engine Still Runs
While her 2025 numbers don’t jump off the page compared to earlier seasons, context matters. After an injury-impacted 2024, Gray came back with something to prove—and delivered when it counted. Her ability to control tempo, create shots late in games, and organize an offense remains elite.
More importantly, Gray continues to be one of the smartest and most composed floor generals in the league. Her feel for the game, leadership, and ability to elevate those around her consistently show up in championship moments. Her résumé speaks for itself, and her presence remains central to everything Las Vegas does offensively.
For Las Vegas, Gray isn’t just a point guard. She’s the connector. The closer. The one who settles everything when the game gets chaotic—and the player this team trusts most when it matters.
Image courtesy of Las Vegas Aces via Instagram
A’ja Wilson Looming:
The Franchise Centerpiece
All signs point to A’ja Wilson remaining exactly where she belongs—in Las Vegas.
While her deal is still expected to be finalized, there’s little question about her role. She is the franchise. The former MVP continues to anchor both ends of the floor and remains one of the most dominant forces in the game.
If Young is the versatility and Gray is the engine, Wilson is the foundation. Everything runs through her.
Bringing back the “core three” isn’t just about familiarity—it’s about preserving a championship formula that has already proven it works.
Depth Pieces Matter: Kierstan Bell and Jewell Loyd Returns
Kierstan Bell’s return may not grab headlines, but it matters.
Championship teams need players who understand their role and can step up when called upon. Bell has shown flashes of that throughout her time in Las Vegas, including stepping into bigger opportunities during the 2025 season and postseason.
Her growth into a reliable rotation piece gives the Aces another layer of flexibility—something that becomes critical over a long season and deep playoff run.
Las Vegas is also continuing to build around the margins. Per Andraya Carter, Jewell Loyd is finalizing a three-year deal with the Aces, adding another proven scorer and veteran presence to the backcourt. Loyd averaged 11.2 PPG while shooting 38.2% from three, along with 3.2 RPG, 1.8 APG, and 1.2 SPG across 44 games (25 starts) in 2025—production that strengthens an already elite guard rotation.
Additionally, the Aces have extended a restricted qualifying offer to NaLyssa Smith. If she accepts, Las Vegas adds even more frontcourt versatility and depth, further rounding out a roster that already has championship expectations.
What’s Next: Are the Aces Done?
Even with their core intact, the Aces could still look to add around the edges.
There are still impactful free agents who could elevate this roster even further:
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- Emma Meesseman – A proven winner with elite versatility and international experience. If available, she’s a seamless fit in any system.
- Aari McDonald – Brings defensive pressure and pace, offering a different look in the backcourt.
- Crystal Dangerfield – A steady guard option who can provide scoring and playmaking off the bench.
- Deja Kelly – A young guard with scoring instincts and confidence who could benefit from developing within a veteran system.
The question isn’t whether the Aces are contenders—they already are. The question is whether they’ll make another move to separate themselves from a league that’s getting deeper and more competitive by the day.
The Final Cut
In a free agency period defined by movement, Las Vegas chose stability.
And not just any stability—championship stability.
Three titles in four seasons isn’t an accident. It’s the result of chemistry, trust, and a core that understands how to win together. By bringing that group back, the Aces are making a clear statement:
They’re not chasing the future. They still believe they are the present.
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