Becky Hammon defends Aces' load management decision in loss to Liberty
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 9, 2026, 9:46 PM
Last updated Aug 9, 2026
The Las Vegas Aces faced a significant roster change in their game against the New York Liberty on August 9, with key players A’ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, and Jackie Young resting. Aces coach Becky Hammon prioritized player health over a potentially crucial match for playoff positioning, leading to a 111-71 loss against the Liberty. This game occurred after a demanding five-game road trip and just a day after facing the Minnesota Lynx. Hammon emphasized the importance of long-term player safety amid the league's increasing number of games, which has risen to 44 this season. The Liberty maintained control throughout the matchup, with Marine Johannes scoring a career-high 27 points off the bench.
- •Aces’ starters rested during a 111-71 loss to the Liberty.
- •Becky Hammon stated player health is the priority over immediate wins.
- •Liberty controlled the game, led by Marine Johannes' 27 points.
- •The Aces played after a five-game road trip and back-to-back schedule.
- •WNBA's increase in games raises load management discussions.
- 9:46 PMYahoo Sports — Becky Hammon defends load management even if Aces have to ‘take the L’ vs. Liberty
"NEW YORK — The Las Vegas Aces’ starting five was unrecognizable Sunday afternoon in Brooklyn. Instead of A’ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young taking the center circle for the tipoff, they sat at the end of the bench as Jewell Loyd, Dana Evans and Brianna Turner replaced them on the court. At first glance, it was a potentially curious decision considering the stage — a nationally televised ABC matchup against rival New York Liberty — and the importance of every game with regard to playoff s
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