Aces Secure Victory Over Sparks in Close Matchup
Tuesday, September 22, 2026, 10:00 PM ET · Michelob ULTRA Arena
Las Vegas Aces 89, Los Angeles Sparks 79, final. Our WNBA picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
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Quick answers
Who won Los Angeles Sparks vs Las Vegas Aces?
Las Vegas Aces beat Los Angeles Sparks 89-79 at Michelob ULTRA Arena on September 22, 2026.
Who was favored in Los Angeles Sparks vs Las Vegas Aces?
Las Vegas Aces were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -1800 (about 95% implied). The favorite won.
In a tightly contested game, the Las Vegas Aces emerged victorious against the Los Angeles Sparks with a final score of 89-79. This match was notable as it marked the fourth meeting of the season between these two teams, with the Aces having won three of the previous encounters, thereby securing a 3-1 series advantage. The Aces, boasting a strong home record of 30-13, demonstrated their dominance at the Michelob ULTRA Arena, where they have been particularly effective this season.
The Aces entered the game with a recent form of 7-3 over their last ten games, and they were riding a five-game winning streak. During this stretch, they averaged 90.3 points scored per game while allowing 83.5 points. Their last outing was a decisive 98-77 win against the Seattle Storm, showcasing their offensive capabilities. In contrast, the Sparks had a record of 4-6 in their last ten games, managing to secure a win in their most recent match against the Portland Fire with a score of 105-84. However, they have struggled overall, averaging 82.4 points scored while allowing 85.7 points during this period.
At home, the Aces have been particularly formidable, with a home record of 5-2 in their last seven games. The Sparks, on the other hand, have faced challenges on the road, with a 1-4 away record in their last five games. This disparity in home and away performance added to the Aces' advantage heading into the matchup.
In terms of injuries, both teams were affected. The Aces were without NaLyssa Smith due to a leg injury. The Sparks faced a more significant challenge, missing several key players: Shyanne Sellers was out due to a coach's decision, while Cameron Brink, Aaliyah Nye, and Dearica Hamby were sidelined with ankle and knee injuries. The absence of these players likely impacted the Sparks' ability to compete effectively against a strong Aces team.
The betting market reflected the Aces' strong position, with DraftKings setting the spread at -17.5 in favor of Las Vegas. The total points line was set at 179.5, with odds of -115.0 for the over and -105.0 for the under. The moneyline showed the Aces at -1800.0 and the Sparks at 1000.0, indicating a clear expectation of an Aces victory.
The game conditions were favorable for both teams, with no significant weather or external factors affecting play. Fans were treated to an exciting matchup, with the Aces showcasing their offensive prowess, particularly in the fourth quarter. Key moments included A'ja Wilson's critical two-point shot that helped solidify the Aces' lead, and Nneka Ogwumike's efforts to keep the Sparks competitive with a pull-up jump shot.
As the game progressed, the Aces maintained their lead, with scoring plays from both teams keeping the momentum high. The Aces' ability to execute in crucial moments, including Ta'Niya Latson's running layup and Jihyun Park's free throws, ultimately sealed the game in their favor.
Overall, this matchup highlighted the Aces' strength at home and their ability to capitalize on the Sparks' injury struggles. With the victory, the Aces continue to assert themselves as a formidable contender in the league, while the Sparks will need to regroup and address their challenges as they move forward.
What we said beforehand
The Las Vegas Aces enter their matchup against the Los Angeles Sparks with a commanding lead in their season series, currently sitting at 2-1. This game, set to take place at the Michelob ULTRA Arena on September 23, 2026, promises to be a compelling contest as the Aces aim to extend their winning streak and solidify their position in the WNBA. Las Vegas boasts an impressive home record of 29-13, while the Sparks come in with a record of 16-26.
The Aces have been in formidable form recently, winning their last five games. Their most recent victory was a decisive 98-77 win over the Seattle Storm on September 21, following an equally dominant 114-77 win against the same team just days earlier. Over their last five games, the Aces have averaged 98.8 points scored while allowing only 76.6 points, showcasing a strong defensive effort paired with their high-scoring offense. Their home record over the last ten games stands at 7-3, with an average of 90.3 points scored and 83.5 points allowed.
In contrast, the Sparks have had a more tumultuous time, with a record of 4-6 in their last ten games. They recently snapped a two-game losing streak with a 105-84 victory over the Portland Fire on September 20. However, their overall scoring average of 82.4 points per game, coupled with an average of 85.7 points allowed, indicates that they have struggled to find consistency. The Sparks' away record has been particularly challenging, with a 1-4 mark in their last five away games.
In terms of previous meetings, the Aces have dominated the series, winning five of the last seven encounters against the Sparks. The most recent matchup on June 3, 2026, saw the Aces secure a 79-69 victory on the road. This history adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming game, as the Sparks will look to turn the tide in their favor.
Injury concerns loom large for both teams. The Aces will be without NaLyssa Smith due to a leg injury, which could impact their depth. The Sparks face a more significant challenge, as they will be missing multiple key players: Shyanne Sellers is out due to a coach's decision, while Cameron Brink, Aaliyah Nye, and Dearica Hamby are sidelined with ankle and knee injuries, respectively. The absence of these players could severely affect the Sparks' ability to compete against a strong Aces team.
From a betting perspective, DraftKings has set the odds with the Aces favored by 17.5 points, indicating a strong expectation for their performance. The total points line is set at 178.5, suggesting a high-scoring affair is anticipated. The moneyline reflects the Aces as heavy favorites at -1800, while the Sparks are listed at +1000.
As for the conditions of the game, fans can expect a vibrant atmosphere at the Michelob ULTRA Arena, where the Aces have thrived this season. The home crowd is likely to provide a significant boost to the Aces, adding to their already formidable home advantage.
Viewers should keep an eye on A'ja Wilson, who leads the Aces with an impressive average of 26.2 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. Her performance will be critical in determining the outcome of the game. For the Sparks, Nneka Ogwumike, averaging 17.3 points and 8.9 rebounds, will need to step up in the absence of her teammates to keep the game competitive.
In summary, this matchup between the Las Vegas Aces and the Los Angeles Sparks is set to be an exciting encounter, with the Aces looking to maintain their winning momentum against a struggling Sparks team missing key players.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | LV -17.5 | 179.5 o -115 / u -105 | Los Angeles Sparks +1000 · Las Vegas Aces -1800 |
Injury report
- NaLyssa SmithOutLegLas Vegas Aces
- Shyanne SellersOutCoach's DecisionLos Angeles Sparks
- Cameron BrinkOutAnkleLos Angeles Sparks
- Aaliyah NyeOutAnkleLos Angeles Sparks
- Dearica HambyOutKneeLos Angeles Sparks
Leaders
- PointsA'ja Wilson18Las Vegas Aces
- AssistsJackie Young11Las Vegas Aces
- ReboundsA'ja Wilson10Las Vegas Aces
- PointsNneka Ogwumike17Los Angeles Sparks
- AssistsErica Wheeler5Los Angeles Sparks
- ReboundsNneka Ogwumike9Los Angeles Sparks
Recent form
Las Vegas Aces
Last 10: 7-3Streak W590.3 scored · 83.5 allowed per game5-2 at home
- W98-77vs Seattle StormSep 21
- W114-77at Seattle StormSep 18
- W93-73vs Toronto TempoAug 29
- W88-78at Toronto TempoAug 23
- W101-78vs Connecticut SunAug 21
- L82-97vs Atlanta DreamAug 19
- L87-92vs Minnesota LynxAug 16
- W83-76vs Washington MysticsAug 14
- W86-76vs Washington MysticsAug 12
- L71-111at New York LibertyAug 9
Los Angeles Sparks
Last 10: 4-6Streak W182.4 scored · 85.7 allowed per game1-4 away
- W105-84vs Portland FireSep 20
- L77-97at Dallas WingsSep 18
- W90-74at Seattle StormAug 30
- W88-82vs Washington MysticsAug 29
- L71-78vs Atlanta DreamAug 25
- W77-68vs Connecticut SunAug 23
- L88-124vs Atlanta DreamAug 21
- L77-85at Connecticut SunAug 18
- L70-80at Washington MysticsAug 15
- L81-85at New York LibertyAug 14
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | - | 11 | L1 | .744 | 32 |
| Golden State | 0.5 | 11 | W6 | .738 | 31 |
| Las Vegas | 2 | 13 | W6 | .698 | 30 |
| Dallas | 6 | 17 | L1 | .605 | 26 |
| Los Angeles | 16 | 27 | L1 | .372 | 16 |
| Phoenix | 16 | 27 | W1 | .372 | 16 |
| Portland | 16 | 27 | L4 | .372 | 16 |
| Seattle | 24 | 35 | L4 | .186 | 8 |
Box score
| Stat | Los Angeles Sparks | Las Vegas Aces |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 32-67 | 34-70 |
| Field goal % | 48 | 49 |
| Three-pointers | 7-21 | 11-28 |
| Three-point % | 33 | 39 |
| Free throws | 8-11 | 10-14 |
| Free throw % | 73 | 71 |
| Rebounds | 30 | 29 |
| Offensive rebounds | 6 | 5 |
| Defensive rebounds | 24 | 24 |
| Assists | 16 | 21 |
| Steals | 8 | 8 |
| Blocks | 3 | 4 |
| Turnovers | 13 | 10 |
| Team turnovers | 0 | 0 |
| Technical fouls | 0 | 1 |
| Technical fouls, total | 0 | 1 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 18 | 8 |
| Fast-break points | 10 | 22 |
| Points in the paint | 38 | 44 |
| Fouls | 17 | 12 |
| Largest lead | 3 | 18 |
| Lead changes | 2 | 2 |
| Time in front | 4 | 94 |
How the scoring went
- 3rd Quarter41-51Tonie Morgan makes running layup
- 3rd Quarter43-51Nneka Ogwumike makes 2-foot layup (Chance Gray assists)
- 3rd Quarter43-53Stephanie Talbot makes 2-foot layup (A'ja Wilson assists)
- 3rd Quarter45-53Nneka Ogwumike makes 7-foot turnaround jump shot (Chance Gray assists)
- 3rd Quarter45-56A'ja Wilson makes 25-foot three point jumper (Jackie Young assists)
- 3rd Quarter45-59Jewell Loyd makes 23-foot running jump shot (Jackie Young assists)
- 3rd Quarter45-62Jewell Loyd makes 23-foot running pullup jump shot (A'ja Wilson assists)
- 3rd Quarter45-63Cheyenne Parker-Tyus makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter47-63Tonie Morgan makes driving layup (Monique Akoa Makani assists)
- 3rd Quarter47-65Jackie Young makes 11-foot pullup jump shot
- 3rd Quarter48-65Chance Gray makes technical free throw
- 3rd Quarter51-65Ndjakalenga Mwenentanda makes 23-foot three point jumper (Jihyun Park assists)
- 4th Quarter54-65Ariel Atkins makes 27-foot three point jumper (Chance Gray assists)
- 4th Quarter54-67Chelsea Gray makes 7-foot pullup jump shot
- 4th Quarter54-68Chelsea Gray makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter54-69A'ja Wilson makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter54-70A'ja Wilson makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter56-70Ariel Atkins makes 2-foot layup (Nneka Ogwumike assists)
- 4th Quarter56-73Chelsea Gray makes 24-foot three pointer
- 4th Quarter58-73Jihyun Park makes 21-foot jumper (Erica Wheeler assists)
- 4th Quarter60-73Rae Burrell makes 4-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter61-73Rae Burrell makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter61-76Stephanie Talbot makes 23-foot three point jumper (Dana Evans assists)
- 4th Quarter61-78A'ja Wilson makes 13-foot running jump shot (Dana Evans assists)
- 4th Quarter64-78Erica Wheeler makes 25-foot three pointer
- 4th Quarter66-78Ariel Atkins makes 16-foot pullup jump shot
- 4th Quarter66-80Jackie Young makes 2-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter69-80Nneka Ogwumike makes 25-foot three point jumper (Erica Wheeler assists)
- 4th Quarter69-82Jackie Young makes 7-foot pullup jump shot
- 4th Quarter69-83Jackie Young makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter71-83Tonie Morgan makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter71-84A'ja Wilson makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter71-86A'ja Wilson makes two point shot
- 4th Quarter73-86Nneka Ogwumike makes 18-foot pullup jump shot (Tonie Morgan assists)
- 4th Quarter75-86Rae Burrell makes 9-foot running pullup jump shot
- 4th Quarter75-87Ta'Niya Latson makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter77-87Monique Akoa Makani makes 6-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter78-87Monique Akoa Makani makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter78-89Ta'Niya Latson makes running layup (Cheyenne Parker-Tyus assists)
- 4th Quarter79-89Jihyun Park makes free throw 2 of 2
Win probability
Above the line favours Las Vegas Aces, below favours Los Angeles Sparks.
Venue
- Michelob ULTRA ArenaLas Vegas, NV
- Attendance10377
- OfficialsRyan Sassano, Teresa Stuck, Kevin Fahy
Elsewhere
- A'ja Wilson powers the Aces past the Sparks, clinching at least a No. 3 seed
- Las Vegas Aces vs. Los Angeles Sparks - Game Highlights
- Stumbling Lynx pull starters vs. Fever with top seed on line
- Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell help Fever keep home-court hope alive with 96-77 win over Lynx
- Fever knock off the Lynx at home
- Mystics beat Sun, set franchise record with 27th win
- Chicago Sky vs. Toronto Tempo - Game Highlights
- Jaquez, Taylor help Sky beat Tempo 97-85, snap 5-game losing streak
WNBA rules and settlement
These two, other days
- Aces Defeat Sparks in WNBA ShowdownJun 2, 2026
- Sparks Edge Aces in Thrilling WNBA ClashMay 23, 2026
- Aces Dominate Sparks in WNBA ShowdownMay 10, 2026
- Aces Dominate Sparks in WNBA ShowdownSep 11, 2025