The Las Vegas Aces secured an 88-78 road win over the Toronto Tempo on Sunday, clinching a playoff berth behind A’ja Wilson’s 27-point, 7-assist performance.
The Las Vegas Aces defeated the Toronto Tempo 88-78 on Sunday, August 23, at Scotiabank Arena, clinching a spot in the 2026 WNBA playoffs. A’ja Wilson led all scorers with 27 points and added a team-high 7 assists, while Jackie Young chipped in 21 points as the Aces improved to 26-13 on the season. The Tempo, now 11-26, were led by Kia Nurse’s 19 points but could not overcome a shorthanded rotation that saw several key players sidelined.
Aces’ Balanced Attack Seals the Win
Las Vegas showcased its depth despite missing multiple regulars. A’ja Wilson was the catalyst, scoring efficiently and facilitating for teammates, finishing with 27 points and 7 assists. NaLyssa Smith contributed a team-high 8 rebounds before leaving with an injury that will sideline her for the next game. Jackie Young added 21 points, continuing her recent scoring surge after a 24-point outing against Connecticut on Aug. 20. The Aces’ offense moved the ball well, creating open looks and converting at key moments to maintain control throughout the second half.
Tempo Battle Short-Handed
Toronto entered the contest severely depleted, missing Marina Mabrey, Julie Allemand, Aneesah Morrow, Brittney Sykes, Maria Conde, and Dana Evans. Despite the absences, the Tempo competed hard. Kia Nurse led the team with 19 points, while Isabelle Harrison grabbed 7 rebounds and Kiki Rice dished out 5 assists. Toronto’s effort kept the game competitive, but the lack of scoring depth ultimately proved costly as they could not keep pace with the Aces’ offensive firepower down the stretch.
Turning Point: Third-Quarter Surge
After a tight first half, the Aces used a decisive third-quarter run to build a lead they would not relinquish. Las Vegas outscored Toronto in the period, capitalizing on defensive stops and transition opportunities. Wilson and Young combined for key baskets, stretching the margin to double digits. The Tempo fought back in the fourth, but the Aces’ balanced attack and timely free throws sealed the 88-78 victory.
Injury Concerns Mount
Both teams are dealing with significant injury issues. The Aces will be especially shorthanded for Friday’s rematch, with seven players listed as out: Marina Mabrey, Julie Allemand, Aneesah Morrow, Brittney Sykes, Maria Conde, NaLyssa Smith, and Dana Evans. Toronto, meanwhile, continues to navigate a depleted roster but received a boost from Isabelle Harrison, who had 25 points and 10 rebounds in a win over Portland on Aug. 21 that snapped a 12-game skid.
What It Means
The Aces clinched a playoff berth with the win, joining Minnesota, Golden State, Indiana, Atlanta, New York, and Washington in the 2026 postseason. They sit third in the Western Conference at 26-13 and are fighting for seeding. The Tempo, in sixth place in the Eastern Conference, remain in rebuilding mode but have shown resilience. Both teams will meet again Friday in Las Vegas, where the Aces will look to complete the season sweep despite their injury list.
- A’ja Wilson: 27 points, 7 assists, 7 rebounds
- Jackie Young: 21 points
- Kia Nurse: 19 points for Toronto
- NaLyssa Smith: 8 rebounds (out next game)
- Isabelle Harrison: 7 rebounds for Toronto
Looking Ahead
Las Vegas hosts Toronto on Friday, August 29, in a quick turnaround rematch. The Aces will rely heavily on Wilson and Young with seven players out. Toronto travels to Seattle to face the Storm on Wednesday, August 26, hoping to build momentum with a winnable matchup against a 7-31 Seattle squad.
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