Aces Retain Core Trio, Doubling Down on Dynasty Bid

Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, and Jewell Loyd re-sign with Las Vegas, setting up WNBA title defense

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:08am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the overlapping and intersecting movements of basketball players on a court, rendered in the Aces' team colors of red, white, and blue, conveying the strategic complexity and energy of the WNBA's premier franchise.The Aces' core trio of Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, and Jewell Loyd form the foundation of the team's championship dynasty, their talents and roles deconstructed into a dynamic, geometric composition.Las Vegas Today

The Las Vegas Aces have re-signed their core trio of Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, and Jewell Loyd, doubling down on the roster that has led them to three championships in the last four seasons. This move solidifies the Aces as the WNBA's premier dynasty, but also raises questions about their ability to adapt in a rapidly evolving league.

Why it matters

The Aces' decision to retain their star players is a bold statement about the value of continuity and culture in the WNBA. As the league undergoes a financial transformation with higher salaries, the Aces are betting that their proven core can fend off challenges from up-and-coming contenders like the New York Liberty and Connecticut Sun.

The details

By re-signing Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, and Jewell Loyd, the Aces are keeping intact the trio that has been the backbone of their success. Gray, a four-time champion, is the on-court general who makes everyone around her better. Young has blossomed into a superstar, while Loyd's willingness to adapt to a bench role showcases the team-first mentality that has defined the Aces.

  • The Aces won their third championship in four seasons in 2025.
  • The WNBA's new labor deal has transformed the league's economics, with average salaries rising nearly fourfold.
  • Over 80% of WNBA players are set to become free agents this offseason.

The players

Chelsea Gray

A four-time WNBA champion, Gray is the engine that keeps the Aces' offense humming. Her leadership and playmaking ability are just as crucial as her stats.

Jackie Young

The No. 1 overall pick in 2019, Young has blossomed into a superstar, capable of scoring, facilitating, and defending at an elite level. She is the Aces' X-factor.

Jewell Loyd

A six-time All-Star, Loyd came off the bench for the first time in her career last season, showcasing her selflessness and willingness to adapt for the team's success.

A'ja Wilson

The four-time WNBA MVP is the face of the Aces franchise, and her future with the team remains uncertain as she has yet to sign a new contract.

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What they’re saying

“Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, and Jewell Loyd aren't just players; they're the backbone of the Aces' success.”

— Author

“Winning isn't just about talent—it's about chemistry, trust, and shared goals. The Aces have cultivated a winning mentality that's rare in professional sports.”

— Author

What’s next

The Aces' future will hinge on whether they can re-sign four-time MVP A'ja Wilson, whose contract is also up this offseason. If Wilson returns, the Aces' core will remain intact, but if she departs, their entire strategy could unravel.

The takeaway

The Aces' decision to retain their core trio of Gray, Young, and Loyd is a bold statement about the value of continuity and culture in the WNBA. While it could solidify their dynasty, it also raises questions about their ability to adapt in a rapidly evolving league where parity is the norm.