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Happy Thursday! ☕️
It was a big night for the Aces last night — and it’s a big day today here at 30 Second Timeout. We’re launching Part 1 of our WNBA-inspired holiday collection today at the Home School Hoop Shop. Scroll down to check it out!
What to Know About Women’s Basketball Today
1. Aces Take 3-0 Lead After Wilson’s Game-Winner 🚨
The Las Vegas Aces are one win away from another title after edging the Phoenix Mercury 90-88 in a Game 3 nail-biter. (AZ Family)
WHY IT MATTERS: Four-time MVP A’ja Wilson sealed the win with a game-winning bucket, capping her 34-point night. Jackie Young added 21, and the Aces held off a furious Phoenix rally after Satou Sabally exited late with an injury.
The Mercury fought hard but now face a nearly impossible 3-0 deficit. For Las Vegas, a third championship in four years would solidify this core’s place among the all-time great teams in league history. Game 4 is on Friday at 8:00 PM on ESPN.
2. Wilson, Smith, and Collier Headline All-Defensive Teams 💪
The WNBA unveiled its All-Defensive First and Second Teams on Wednesday, led by A’ja Wilson, Alanna Smith, and Napheesa Collier. The award announcement arrived a week later than expected, likely the result of the tension that broke out publicly between Commissioner Cathy Engelbert and 2024’s Defensive Player of the Year Collier.
WHY IT MATTERS: Good defense is not often reflected in the box score, but it wins championships. Example A: the Las Vegas Aces and 3x Defensive Player of the Year Wilson. Recognizing elite defenders like Collier and Smith shines light on the players who do the gritty work that keeps teams in games, even when shots aren’t falling.
3. NCAA Loosens Sports-Betting Rules for Athletes 🎲
The NCAA approved a major rule change allowing student-athletes to bet on professional sports, though wagering on college games remains banned. (Sports Illustrated)
WHY IT MATTERS: The change reduces compliance pressure on college athletic departments while reflecting shifting national attitudes toward sports betting. Another potential reason for this debated topic — by narrowing the gap between athletes and other students it may potentially weaken a case for classifying players as employees, a move the NCAA has been advocating against for years.
Part One: Our WNBA-Inspired Holiday Collection is Live!
Celebrate the season with wrapping paper, ornaments, and car coasters inspired by your favorite WNBA teams and players — from the team behind 30 Second Timeout.*
OVERTIME ⏱️
Custom Clark: Wilson launched a new line of Evolution basketballs you can fully customize with Caitlin Clark-inspired patterns and colors.*
Another Spark: Sarah Ashlee Barker (LA Sparks) has signed with Athletes Unlimited, adding another promising young guard to its roster.
Early Bird: In case you missed it, it’s not too early — check out our new WNBA-inspired merch to elevate your holiday gifting this year!*
*When you buy through this link, 30 Second Timeout will earn a commission. If you do, THANK YOU!
