LAS VEGAS — The Las Vegas Aces made history on Monday night as they celebrated their second consecutive WNBA championship on the vibrant Strip, and their resounding message was clear: They’re far from finished. With an emphatic declaration from WNBA Finals MVP Aja Wilson, the Aces asserted their intention to repeat their success. “We’re coming back,” Wilson exclaimed. “We’re going to do this [expletive] again.” In a league where success is hard-fought and elusive, the Aces became the first WNBA team in 21 years to secure back-to-back titles, defeating the New York Liberty in a four-game showdown, echoing their 2022 triumph against the Connecticut Sun.
“We are not done. We’re going to keep coming back, and everybody hates it,” Kelsey Plum passionately declared to the jubilant crowd during the 2023 WNBA championship parade in Las Vegas. The fervor was palpable as the team reveled in their historic accomplishment. But amid the celebration and anticipation of a three-peat, one game stood out as a point of contention.
The Aces’ journey to back-to-back titles was nearly flawless, with one blemish marring their otherwise impeccable playoff record. It was the Liberty who handed them their sole defeat in Game 3 of the 2023 playoffs. The loss stung, and it was particularly frustrating given the unbridled optimism that had defined the Aces’ season.
Notably, Sabrina Ionescu’s “night night” celebration after sinking a crucial 3-pointer remains etched in the memory of fans and players alike. It was a moment of defiance and self-assuredness that lingered long after the game had ended, and it sparked discussions and debates about sportsmanship and rivalry.
However, as the Aces celebrated their championship, they chose to focus on the bigger picture. They had displayed the resilience and tenacity that champions are made of, and they were determined to carry that spirit forward. Owner Mark Davis, acknowledging the tremendous effort it took to clinch consecutive championships, emphasized the exceptional challenges of repeating such a feat.
“It’s hard to win a championship,” Davis stated. “It’s even harder to repeat.” The Aces’ commitment to success, from the front office to the players, was undeniable. They understood that the journey to greatness demanded sustained dedication, hard work, and a roster of extraordinary talent.
Aja Wilson, who had played a pivotal role in securing their victory, exuded confidence during the championship parade. As the WNBA Finals MVP, her leadership and performance were instrumental in the Aces’ success. She symbolized their determination and set the tone for the future. “We’re going to do this [expletive] again,” Wilson declared, encapsulating the team’s unwavering commitment to excellence.
The Aces’ back-to-back triumphs heralded an era of dominance in the WNBA, reminiscent of the dynasties of the past. Their ability to maintain a high level of performance and continue to set records made them a team to watch and a force to reckon with.
The rivalry with the New York Liberty added a layer of intensity to their championship journey. The Liberty, while formidable opponents, found themselves on the receiving end of the Aces’ relentless pursuit of success. It was a rivalry that transcended the court, with players and fans alike engaging in spirited debates and passionate exchanges.
As the 2023 WNBA championship parade wound down, the Aces looked ahead to the future, unswayed by the challenges and controversies. Their focus remained on achieving their ultimate goal: another championship. They were determined to make championship parades a regular ritual, firmly believing that their roster and spirit were capable of achieving such a feat.
In the world of professional sports, history is often defined by the teams and individuals who can sustain success over time. The Las Vegas Aces, with their back-to-back championships, had etched their names in the annals of WNBA history. They celebrated their achievements and confronted their challenges with a resilience that inspired fans and competitors alike.
As they basked in the glory of their second consecutive championship, the Las Vegas Aces sent a clear message: they were not done. Their journey had only just begun, and they were determined to keep coming back for more, undeterred by the naysayers and the controversies. The Aces had become champions, and they had every intention of remaining at the top.
