- What: WNBA Regular Season Game
- When: Friday, July 12
- Who: Las Vegas Aces vs. Atlanta Dream
- Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Where: Gateway Center Arena (College Park, GA)
The Las Vegas Aces are starting to hit their stride and have a chance to avenge an early-season loss as they head to Atlanta for a non-conference matchup with the Dream.
Las Vegas Aces
The Aces, known for their high-scoring capabilities, are heavy favorites for tonight’s clash. My picks anticipate a fast-paced game with both teams scoring abundantly.
After a slow start, the Aces have made a remarkable turnaround, winning nine of their last 10 games and consistently scoring 84+ points in each of their last five.
Their away game performance is particularly impressive, averaging 89 points per game.
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⌚️ 4:30PM PT
???? @IONWNBA #ALLINLV pic.twitter.com/JC1Vifo6FR— Las Vegas Aces (@LVAces) July 12, 2024
The return of Chelsea Gray to the lineup nine games ago has provided the spark the Aces needed.
Her presence offers Vegas another facilitator and strengthens their bench, which is crucial for a team that hasn’t excelled defensively.
On the road, the Aces allow an average of 84 points per game, relying on their potent offense to secure victories.
While not their primary focus, this defensive strategy has been effective in their recent games.
Atlanta Dream
While the Las Vegas Aces are formidable opponents, the Atlanta Dream have a genuine opportunity to pull off an upset at home on Friday night.
Atlanta’s home-court advantage will be crucial.
The Dream have demonstrated their ability to perform well at Gateway Center Arena, as shown by their 89-80 victory over the Chicago Sky earlier this season.
The energy from the home crowd could provide the extra boost needed to compete with the Aces.
Atlanta’s offensive firepower, led by Allisha Gray, who averages 16.3 points per game, has the potential to challenge Las Vegas’ defense.
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⏰ 7:30pm ET
???? on @iontv & @IONWNBA #atlantadream pic.twitter.com/W9N8O7iuC8— Atlanta Dream (@AtlantaDream) July 12, 2024
If Gray can maintain her scoring touch and receive support from veterans like Tina Charles (13.8 points, 8.5 rebounds per game), the Dream could keep pace with the Aces’ high-powered offense.
Defensively, the Dream must focus on containing A’ja Wilson, the Aces’ leading scorer.
Of course she won the ESPY for the Best @WNBA Player ✨@_ajawilson22 // @ESPYS pic.twitter.com/VqQ2vV9K0U
— Las Vegas Aces (@LVAces) July 12, 2024
If they can limit her impact and force other players to step up, it could disrupt Las Vegas’ offensive rhythm.
The Dream’s recent five-game losing streak may actually work in their favor, as they’ll be hungry and motivated to turn things around, especially against a top team like the Aces.
Sometimes, desperation can fuel exceptional performances.
While Las Vegas is favored, Atlanta has nothing to lose and everything to gain.
If they can control the tempo, capitalize on their home-court advantage, and play with a sense of urgency, the Dream can pull off a surprising victory against the Aces on Friday night.
Aces-Dream Best Bet
Although Vegas may secure crucial stops when needed, they primarily aim to outscore their opponents and will likely achieve that against Atlanta tonight.
Expect an electrifying pace tonight.
A noticeable lack of defense will lead to a high-scoring game that will exceed the predicted total. I would bet Over 169.5 points in this one.
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