Aces coach Becky Hammon benches 3 starters in what looks like WNBA scheduling protest in national TV game

Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon opted to sit out four-time MVP A’ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, and Jackie Young for a nationally televised game against the New York Liberty. Hammon cited player health and safety as paramount, particularly following a quick turnaround from a previous game on the road, suggesting it was a “bigger picture” scenario. This decision occurred despite the game being a high-profile matchup against a rival, and it highlights potential tensions with the WNBA’s scheduling policies regarding back-to-back games and travel.

• Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon benched three star players, including MVP A’ja Wilson, for a Sunday game against the New York Liberty.
• The decision was attributed to player health and safety concerns due to a quick turnaround from a Saturday game on the road.
• Hammon stated that player well-being takes priority, even in a nationally televised game against a rival, viewing it as a “bigger picture” strategy.
• The WNBA has guidelines for back-to-back games, including a minimum of 20 hours between games and limitations on time zone travel, though the Aces’ schedule met the minimum hour requirement.
• The Aces lost the game significantly, 111-71, but Hammon defended her decision, suggesting it would pay off in the long run.
• The article notes the upcoming increase in the WNBA’s regular season schedule to 50 games.
• Fellow player Jonquel Jones of the Liberty acknowledged the Aces’ need to do what’s right for their team and players, despite competitors wanting to face the full lineup.