![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1409810448-e1678292638206.jpg?width=600)
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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JULY 19: A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces reacts after scoring a basket and getting a foul call against the Atlanta Dream during their game at Michelob ULTRA Arena on July 19, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Dream defeated the Aces 92-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1409810448-e1678292638206.jpg?width=600)
via Getty
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JULY 19: A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces reacts after scoring a basket and getting a foul call against the Atlanta Dream during their game at Michelob ULTRA Arena on July 19, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Dream defeated the Aces 92-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
“She’s the best player in the world,” Aces head coach Becky Hammon exclaimed upon witnessing A’ja Wilson soaring to challenging heights and making it through this season. Besides breaking multiple records this season, A’ja Wilson has undoubtedly established herself as one of the most dominant and influential athletes both on and off the court. In 23 games played by the Aces, Wilson has arrived to lead the league in offensive scoring with 27.2 points per game. Her 11.9 rebounds define her defensive prowess in a standout way.
Now, in the second face-off with Angel Reese’s Sky, Wilson and the Aces are ready to take on the win again. So, let’s jump into the details and see if she can maintain her MVP form against one of the most energetic teams in the league this season.
Injury updates and starting 5 for Aces and Sky
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As for the Aces, there aren’t any listed injuries; however, for the Sky, Elizabeth Williams was declared out with season-ending knee surgery earlier this month. Williams had undergone full repair surgery of the meniscus rather than opting for a partial meniscectomy or trim. Hence, extending the duration of her recovery and keeping her out for the remainder of the season.
Polls of the day
Poll 1 of 4
Can A'ja Wilson continue her MVP surge against Angel Reese and the Sky?
Absolutely
No way
It's going to be tough
She'll dominate
Have an interesting take?
Do you think Joel Embiid made the right choice by ditching France for Team USA?
Absolutely
No way
It's complicated
Only time will tell
Have an interesting take?
Do you think the new FIBA rules will improve the game of basketball?
Yes, definitely
No, it's unnecessary
Maybe, let's wait and see
I don't care
Have an interesting take?
Do you think Team USA can reclaim its former glory in international basketball?
Absolutely
Not a chance
Only with LeBron
Depends on the competition
Have an interesting take?
Talking about the starting five, the expected lineup for the Aces will include A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, Jackie Young, Kia Stokes, and Chelsea Gray. As for the sky, it will most likely include Lindsay Allen, Marina Mabrey, Chennedy Carter, Angel Reese, and Kamilla Cardoso.
So, let’s come back to the boilerplate question.
Can A’ja Wilson dazzle with her MVP-like performance against Angel Reese and Co.?
This season, A’ja Wilson has been raining fire on the court with her galactic take on declaring who runs the game. In the last 5 games, she has been scoring 24 points and above while keeping up a 5-game double-double streak.
Out of these 5 games, she registered 30+ points to raise the bar. Moreover, she has now become the Aces franchise leader by surpassing the San Antonio Silver Stars legend, Sophia Young-Malcolm. However, what’s more intriguing is the fact that Wilson is not dwelling on these milestones and is focused on pursuing her next one.
“I’m onto the next thing. I’m appreciative and I’m blessed, but that’s not something that I’m really thinking about because I’m just doing my job,” said Wilson in the interview after an 84-70 win over the Atlanta Dream. Besides, the two defending champions are looking more powerful than ever with Chelsea Gray back on the floor and Kelsey Plum, Jackie Young, and other Aces fighting it tough.
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But this doesn’t mean the sky can be underestimated. Of course, the Barbie and Chenn duo is hustling through. With her 12 rebounds per game and her record-breaking double-doubles, Angel Reese is getting close to what feels like success despite being a rookie.
On the other hand, Chennedy Carter’s performance has successfully put her on the scoring map this season, delivering a 16.4-point performance in every game. Marina Mabrey rules the court beyond the arc.
Going against the two-time champions, the Sky has the potential to take them down if they play their cards right; otherwise, the ball will be in the Aces’ court to score. As for ESPN’s matchup predictor, the Aces have a bright 85.6% chance to have this win, while the Sky are looking bleak with just 14.4% in their corner. However, it’s just a prediction, so let’s wait and see how interesting this game is going to be!
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Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud, Caitlin Clark’s Olympic snub, and more, watch this video:
Debate
Is A'ja Wilson the undisputed MVP, or can Angel Reese steal the spotlight?