Las Vegas’s quest for a three-peat has taken a tremendous takeoff. Out of the 5 games so far, they have ended up on the winning side on 4 occasions thanks to some stunning performances by 2x MVP A’ja Wilson. However, in the mind of their head coach, Becky Hammon, there is one other team that has the credentials of being known as the cream of the crop in the league.

The back-to-back champions secured an impressive road victory at the Target Center by defeating the Minnesota Lynx 89-66. Soon after, the 2022 WNBA Coach of the Year reflected on the competition posed by their opponents. In the post-game media address, Becky Hammon said, “I do think that Minnesota is the best team in the league right now.” 

So far, the Lynx currently occupy the second spot in the Western Conference Standings. Their participation in the 6 games has resulted in a win on 4 occasions. In addition, they are only below Las Vegas offensively and defensively, with an average of 88.6 points and 36 rebounds in each contest. Keeping that in mind, Hammon further added, “What I’ve seen, is that they’re playing at the highest level on both ends of the floor right now. They should have very easily won that Connecticut game. Crazy things happen in this league.” 

In the meantime, the Lynx put up an impressive show against the defending champions as well. Anyhow, they couldn’t contain the offensive prowess of A’ja Wilson and Co.

Becky Hammon’s crew breached Minnesota’s fort

A valiant double-double from Napheesa Collier (18 points and 13 rebounds) couldn’t save the day for the hosts. As it turns out, a resounding display by A’ja Wilson and Jackie Young proved too much for Minnesota in the end.

While Wilson produced a fifth double-double on the trot with 29 points and 15 rebounds, Young garnered 19 points and 10 assists. Moreover, the 2023 WNBA Finals MVP was 11-13 from the field and made 7 of 10 from the free throw line. Further, there were also some noteworthy contributions from Kelsey Plum, who registered 10 points next to her name and was 4-of-14 shooting.

The world champs are getting in their groove with each game. After their first loss against Phoenix, they have bounced back tremendously by winning the next two games. With the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup just around the horizon, they would want to carry the winning momentum. Yet, their road will be filled with obstacles, with teams like Minnesota rising on the surface. It will be interesting to see which others are worthy enough to challenge their throne this time around.

Stay tuned for more such updates. And to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about the marketing genius, watch this video.