FSM Presents: Las Vegas Aces 2021 Media Day: 5 Takeaways

Photo Credit: Las Vegas Aces

FSM Presents: Las Vegas Aces 2021 Media Day: 5 Takeaways

On Monday, the Las Vegas Aces held their 2021 media day virtually via Zoom. Head coach Bill Laimbeer and a cast of 11 players, led by A’ja Wilson, gave their thoughts on a range of topics.

Aside from the usual questions that garnered the usual answers, there were a few noteworthy responses that kept cycling from player to player. Here, I give my thoughts on the responses that stood out and provide a look at what we can look forward to as the 2021 WNBA season inches closer.

JERSEY TALK:

Kelsey Plum Media Day — *Photo Credit: Kelsey Plum*

On April 8th, the WNBA released their new Nike basketball game uniforms, which included three variations of the team uniforms — Heroine, Explorer, and Rebel. For the Aces players, who were rocking their new uniforms as they sat answered questions at media day, the Rebel edition (black) had an overwhelming amount of votes as the favorite jersey.

“Inspired by the Ace card and in reference to those who have mastered their craft, the Las Vegas Aces Nike Rebel Edition sets a standard for excellence and quality. Diamond details emblazoned across the uniform’s front and back, coupled with opulent gold trim, feel both classic and fresh.”

The Heroine edition (white) earned a few shoutouts as well, as it is the first white uniform in the team’s brief history.

A’JA, THE 3PT SHOOTER:

A'ja Wilson — *Photo Credit: Las Vegas Aces*

The media members were quick to acknowledge the video that surfaced on Twitter of the MVP converting on a catch-and-shoot three-pointer.

When asked about the shot, Wilson described the moment as both “cool” and a “confidence booster.” Coach Laimbeer got a kick out of it but also mentioned his preference in having his star player stick to her bread and butter. “I think I’d rather have her in the mid-range or on the low-block.”

With Aces center, Liz Cambage endorsing Wilson as the WNBA’s best player, even adding an ounce of three-point shooting to her game would make her nearly impossible to defend.

BACK TO REALITY(?):

All 12 of the WNBA teams are back in their home markets for the 2021 season after having to be in a bubble last season. Naturally, you’d expect there to be a huge sign of relief that that experience is over, but the return to home has received mixed reviews.

Aces’ guard, Angel McCoughtry, spoke on the rigorous rules ahead of the 2021 season and suggested that vaccinated players should have a bit more freedom. “Nobody wants to live like they’re in a cage,” she said. However, McCoughtry is looking forward to playing in front of fans whenever allowed to, which she credits as part of the reason why she joined the Aces after 11 years in Atlanta.

ROOKIE PRAISE:

The winner of this virtual media day was undoubtedly rookie guard Destiny Slocum, who received all sorts of praise from her teammates for her performance in the Aces’ Sunday scrimmage against the Los Angeles Sparks.

Slocum, who scored 10 points in the scrimmage, also received a shoutout from coach Lambieer who stated that Slocum played “admirably” for the team. Both the remarks and the good-play figure to be instrumental for a young player’s confidence as she adapts to the professional game. Equally as important, the Aces could benefit from some backup guard production, and while early, it seems that Slocum could fulfill that need as she continues to progress.

TIDBITS:

There were plenty of fun questions throughout media day that made for great quotes from the players; with those questions, we learned that Dearica Hamby is the best dancer on the team (self-proclaimed), Kelsey Plum will have some surprise on-court “fire” (shoes) for us throughout the season — at unexpected times, and that Liz Cambage is vaccinated and ready for the summer.