LAS VEGAS, NV — The Los Angeles Sparks stunned the Las Vegas Aces with a commanding 97-89 victory on Wednesday night, led by a breakout performance from rookie Rickea Jackson, who dropped a career-high 30 points.
Jackson delivered a standout night, shooting 11-of-17 from the field, including four three-pointers, and knocking down four of five free throws. Her impressive performance surpassed her previous high of 25 points set last season against Dallas.
Azura Stevens added a double-double for the Sparks (4-7), contributing 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Dearica Hamby had an all-around performance with 19 points, eight boards, and seven assists against her former squad. Kelsey Plum, also facing her old team, chipped in 13 points and dished out nine assists.
The Aces (4-4) struggled late after losing star forward A’ja Wilson with 1:17 remaining in the third quarter due to a head injury. Wilson was inadvertently struck in the face during a drive by Hamby and did not return. Despite her limited night, Wilson managed 13 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, though she shot just 2-of-12 from the floor.
Jackie Young put on a scoring clinic for Las Vegas, tying her career high with 34 points. Chelsea Gray followed with 28, but the duo couldn’t overcome the Sparks’ offensive surge.
Young kept the Aces within reach in the second quarter, scoring 14 consecutive points for Las Vegas. However, the Sparks entered halftime with a 50-41 advantage after getting double-digit scoring from Jackson, Hamby, and Stevens.
Los Angeles maintained control down the stretch, capitalizing on Wilson’s absence and sealing a much-needed win on the road.
