Dice City Plus

Aces need faster start in Liberty rematch

Aces Liberty rematch arrives Thursday at Michelob ULTRA Arena after New York controlled the first two meetings. Las Vegas needs a faster start, more paint pressure and a cleaner defensive response to avoid chasing again.

by
Mark Hebert
July 30, 2026

Breanna Stewart shoots over NaLyssa Smith during the June 30 Commissioner’s Cup final in Brooklyn.

New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart shoots over Las Vegas Aces forward NaLyssa Smith during the first half June 30, 2026, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Smith is a game-time decision for Thursday’s rematch after missing Las Vegas’ win over Portland. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images

The Las Vegas Aces do not need another comeback against the New York Liberty. They need to prevent one from becoming necessary.

New York controlled long stretches of both June meetings, built double-digit leads and forced Las Vegas to chase. The Liberty won 87-76 on June 23, then took the Commissioner’s Cup final 93-85 one week later.

Dice City Sports editor Mark Hebert covers the Las Vegas Aces, Vegas Golden Knights, Las Vegas Raiders, Athletics, and UNLV baseball and softball. He has 24 years of journalism experience, is also a senior reporter at Exhibit City News, and previously covered the Dallas Stars and Texas Rangers. Follow him on X or connect on LinkedIn.

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