Las Vegas Aces Shine Bright in Women’s Basketball Spectacle
The Las Vegas Aces put on a spectacular show at the Michelob Ultra Arena, but the addition of Caitlin Clark to the mix made for an even more electrifying women’s basketball spectacle. Fans flew in from Iowa to see Clark and her former teammate Kate Martin in action, with their coach Lisa Bluder also in attendance.
In addition to the on-court excitement, the Aces also made headlines for their commitment to raising awareness about reproductive and abortion rights. The team announced that they would use their Commissioner’s Cup games as a platform to support civic engagement efforts, particularly focusing on voting and reproductive rights. This initiative aligns with the values of Reproductive Freedom for All Nevada, a state chapter of a national non-profit organization dedicated to defending access to reproductive health care.
The WNBA has a history of using its platform to advocate for social and political issues, and the Aces’ involvement in the abortion rights movement is just the latest example of the league’s commitment to activism. The league recently partnered with Perrigo Company plc, the brand behind Opill, the first over-the-counter daily birth control pill in the US, further solidifying their support for women’s health rights.
Despite the Aces’ strong stance on women’s rights, the decision to hold the 2024 All-Star Game in Phoenix, following the Arizona Supreme Court’s near-total abortion ban, has raised some eyebrows. However, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Englebert has stated that the league’s presence in Arizona will continue to make an impact on maternal health and reproductive rights issues.
On the court, the Aces dominated the Indiana Fever, with A’ja Wilson leading the way with 29 points. The team’s Big 3, including Wilson, Jackie Young, and Kelsey Plum, showcased their talent and secured a convincing 99-80 victory. Las Vegas improved to 3-1, while Indiana continued to struggle with a 1-6 record.
Overall, the Aces’ combination of on-court excellence and off-court activism made for a memorable evening of women’s basketball in Las Vegas.