On Friday night, the Dallas Wings are coming off a 68-51 win over the Seattle Storm. Now the travel to take on the Las Vegas to take on the 9-2 Las Vegas Aces. The Aces will be without Jackie Young, who is averaging 19.2 points per game.
Las Vegas is first in the WNBA in points per game, averaging 91.6. Even without Young, the Aces still have A’Ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum; both are playing outstanding this season, and it will be hard for Dallas to slow them down.
Use Your Size
The Wings have five players 6-3 and above; the Aces like to run and gun. So it will be crucial for Dallas to use their big to crash the boards and score some baskets in the paint. Las Vegas does not have a lot of size on their roster, so it will be essential for Dallas to take advantage of it by throwing the ball into the post and scoring easy baskets. Satou Sabally, Isabelle Harrison, and Teaira McCowan should all get paint touches in this game. Also, it could help get Aces star Wilson in foul trouble.
Defense
Playing against the Aces, you have to focus on getting back on defense. If not, they will run you out of the gym. Wilson is a force down low and in the midrange area. Look for the Wings to use multiple players to try to slow her down. Awak Kuier, who has developed into a solid defensive player, could see some time on Wilson and try to bother her with her length. When it comes to Plum, Dallas must get the ball out of her hands; she is playing great this season, shooting 47% from three-point land.
Efficient On Offense
The Wings must be efficient on offense and take good shots. If they are taking bad shots and missing, it could lead to fast break opportunities for the Aces. Marina Mabrey and Arike Ogunbowale must get their teammates involved and take high percentage shots. Look out for Allisha Gray, who plays well on both sides of the floor for Dallas.
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