Becky Hammon Rips 'Atrocious' Aces Defense After 31-Point Loss to Lynx

The Las Vegas Aces suffered a significant 109-78 defeat against the league-leading Minnesota Lynx. This 31-point loss marks their worst margin of defeat since August 2023. The Lynx scored a season-high 109 points, tied for the most in the WNBA this season, led by Napheesa Collier (25 points, 9 rebounds) and Courtney Williams (23 points, 5 assists, 83.3% shooting). Minnesota remains undefeated at home with a 14-0 record.

Aces head coach Becky Hammon delivered a scathing critique of her team's defense postgame. She highlighted a lack of communication, poor execution of defensive schemes, and a lack of discipline as the Aces surrendered at least 24 points in every quarter. Hammon emphasized that these defensive struggles are season-long issues, with Las Vegas ranking 9th out of 13 teams in opposing points and defensive rating. While A'ja Wilson leads the league in blocks, the team has been below average in nearly all other defensive aspects.

The loss occurred during a demanding stretch for the Aces, being their third game in four days following the All-Star break. Coach Hammon acknowledged the schedule difficulty as a factor but stressed that elite teams handle adversity better. The defeat dropped the Aces to a 12-13 record, failing to meet preseason expectations despite adding 6-time All-Star Jewell Loyd, who notably scored 0 points (0-10 FG) in the game.

Looking ahead, Coach Hammon stated the only path forward is to return to work, continue teaching, coaching, and encouraging the players. The Aces aim to rebound in their next game against the Dallas Wings as their four-game road trip continues.