The Las Vegas Aces and Chicago Sky are set to clash in a highly anticipated WNBA playoff series. Having swept their regular season encounters 3-0, the No. 1 seeded Aces are the favorites, but the Sky, as the No. 8 seed, are looking to pull off an upset. For fans eager to witness this exciting matchup, finding out where to watch the Las Vegas Aces vs Chicago Sky is key. This guide provides you with all the essential information on game schedules, TV channels, and streaming options to ensure you don’t miss any of the action.
Game Schedule and Broadcast Details
This best-of-three series promises thrilling basketball. Here’s a breakdown of the schedule and where you can catch each game:
| Game | Date | Time (ET) | Location | TV Channel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game One | September 13 | 10:00 PM | T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas | ESPN |
| Game Two | September 17 | 3:00 PM | T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas | ABC |
| Game Three* | September 20 | TBD | Wintrust Arena, Chicago | ESPN |
*Game Three is only if necessary. Time to be determined (TBD).
Television Channels:
- ESPN: Game One and, if necessary, Game Three will be broadcast on ESPN. Check your local listings for channel information.
- ABC: Game Two will be aired on ABC. This is often accessible via local broadcast channels or cable providers.
Streaming Options:
For fans who prefer to stream the games online, here are potential platforms:
- ESPN+: ESPN’s streaming service, ESPN+, may offer live streaming of the games, particularly Game One and Game Three which are on ESPN. Check the ESPN+ schedule closer to game time.
- ABC.com and ABC App: Game Two, being broadcast on ABC, may be streamed live via ABC’s website (ABC.com) and the ABC app. Availability may depend on your location and cable provider.
- Streaming Services with Live TV: Services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and DIRECTV STREAM often include ESPN and ABC in their channel lineups. These are excellent options for watching the games live. Ensure to confirm that these channels are included in your subscription package.
- WNBA League Pass: While blackout restrictions may apply depending on your location, WNBA League Pass is the official streaming service of the WNBA and typically offers live and on-demand games. Check the WNBA League Pass website for availability and potential blackouts in your region.
It is recommended to check the specific listings closer to the game dates to confirm the most accurate and up-to-date broadcast information.
Key Matchups to Watch
Beyond just knowing where to watch, understanding the key player battles adds another layer of excitement to the series. Here are some matchups that basketball enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating:
Jackie Young vs. Kahleah Copper
This is a clash of titans. Kahleah Copper of the Sky and Jackie Young of the Aces are both incredibly complete players, often tasked with guarding the opponent’s primary offensive threat. Young has been exceptionally efficient this WNBA season and is a strong contender for All-WNBA honors. Chelsea Gray and Kelsey Plum also demand defensive attention for the Aces, meaning Copper may see time guarding multiple players. On the other end, Courtney Williams and Marina Mabrey are offensive weapons for the Sky, but Copper remains their focal point and Finals MVP caliber player. Young will likely be assigned to defend Copper, making this a must-watch individual battle. Keep an eye on whether the Sky will utilize Dana Evans more to help alleviate some of Copper’s defensive workload, especially against Gray.
Chelsea Gray vs. Courtney Williams
In the backcourt, the point guard matchup between Chelsea Gray and Courtney Williams is compelling. Both players rank high in assists per game this season, orchestrating their team’s offenses. Williams is crucial for the Sky’s playmaking, while Gray is the engine for the Aces, a Finals MVP herself. Expect intense defensive pressure from both sides as they try to disrupt each other’s rhythm and create turnovers. This point guard duel will significantly influence the flow and outcome of each game.
A’ja Wilson vs. Elizabeth Williams
For the Sky, a critical aspect of their game plan will be containing A’ja Wilson. Coach Emre Vatansever will need to devise strategies to slow down the Aces’ dominant center. Will Elizabeth Williams get the primary defensive assignment on Wilson? Will the Sky resort to double-teaming Wilson immediately upon catching the ball? The Sky have defensive options in Elizabeth Williams, Alanna Smith, and even Kahleah Copper to throw different looks at Wilson. However, game-planning for Wilson while simultaneously dealing with the Aces’ star-studded supporting cast presents a formidable challenge for Chicago. Elizabeth Williams, one of the league’s premier shot-blockers, will be central to Chicago’s defensive efforts in the paint against the reigning MVP, A’ja Wilson.
X-Factors for the Series
Every playoff series has players who can step up and become X-factors, potentially swinging the momentum. Here are a few for this Aces vs. Sky matchup:
Alysha Clark (Las Vegas Aces)
If Candace Parker remains sidelined due to injury, Alysha Clark becomes a crucial X-factor for the Aces. Clark is arguably their fifth most impactful player after Wilson, Young, Gray, and Plum. With Parker healthy, Clark provides valuable depth off the bench. However, in Parker’s absence, Clark is essential to the Aces’ strongest lineups. While Kiah Stokes is likely to start alongside Wilson, watch for how quickly the Aces might shift to a small-ball lineup if the Sky are competitive. Playing Clark at the four could create rebounding vulnerabilities against the Sky, who have strong rebounders across positions. However, the offensive firepower of a lineup featuring Gray, Plum, Young, Clark, and Wilson could overwhelm the Sky. If Chicago keeps games close, expect to see this potent lineup in crunch time.
Kahleah Copper & Courtney Williams (Chicago Sky)
Kahleah Copper is not just the Sky’s leading scorer; she is the heart and soul of the team. Fresh off a contract extension, Copper is tasked with leading the Sky against the defending champions. Her scoring prowess, averaging 18.7 points per game with over 40% three-point shooting, is vital for Chicago to compete. Alongside Copper, Courtney Williams is another key X-factor. Coming off a triple-double performance in the regular-season finale, Williams’ all-around game, including her tough defense, is essential for the Sky to challenge the Aces. Marina Mabrey’s playoff three-point shooting (41.2% career) also provides crucial floor spacing for the Sky’s offense as they try to keep pace with the Aces’ high-powered attack. Elizabeth Williams’ defensive presence and shot-blocking ability will also be critical in slowing down the Aces’ offense.
Bold Predictions
To add some spice to the series preview, here are bold predictions from basketball analysts:
Chelsea Gray to Dominate
Chelsea Gray is predicted to have a standout series, potentially recording back-to-back double-doubles and even flirting with a triple-double. Her playmaking and scoring ability could be the deciding factor in the Aces sweeping the Sky.
Kahleah Copper to Explode in Game One
In her first game after signing her contract extension with the Sky, Kahleah Copper is predicted to score 30 or more points in Game One. This would be only the second time this season she reaches that mark, signaling a potential statement game to kick off the series.
Don’t miss the exciting action between the Las Vegas Aces and Chicago Sky! Refer to the viewing options above to ensure you catch every moment of this playoff series.
