The Las Vegas Aces, the reigning WNBA champions, have been eliminated from the 2026 postseason by the Golden State Valkyries, marking a turning point for the franchise as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Why it matters: Jackie Young, a key player for the Aces, is now an unrestricted free agent after a successful eight-year career with the team. Her future will significantly impact both the Aces and the league.
Young, 29, completed her eighth WNBA season in 2026 and will be available to sign with any team this offseason.
She has been a core part of the Aces' success, contributing to three WNBA titles during her tenure.
The Aces finished the 2026 regular season with a 31-13 record, securing the No. 3 seed in the playoffs.
Driving the news: The Aces faced the Valkyries in the second round of the playoffs on October 9, 2026, at Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas. This matchup ended their postseason run.
In the decisive game, Young was active in the second half, but the Aces were unable to secure the win.
The elimination marks a stark shift for the Aces, who entered the playoffs as defending champions.
State of play: Young's performance throughout the season has solidified her status as one of the league's top players.
During the 2026 regular season, she averaged 18.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.8 assists across 43 games.
Her contributions were instrumental in the Aces' playoff push, highlighting her as a valuable asset moving forward.
The big picture: Young's potential departure from the Aces raises questions about the team's future and her career direction.
Having been drafted No. 1 out of Notre Dame in 2019, Young has spent her entire professional career with the Aces.
She signed a one-year, $1.19 million contract for the 2026 season, bringing her career earnings to $1,937,647.
Young is also a five-time All-Star and two-time All-WNBA selection, underscoring her talent and impact in the league.
What they're saying: Young's loyalty to the Aces has been unwavering, but her free agency status opens up new possibilities.
"I didn't take any meetings. Obviously I love it here, got drafted here. Vegas is where I want to be," Young said about her previous contract negotiations.
Her commitment to the Aces has been evident, as she focused on improving her game rather than exploring other options.
By the numbers: Young's statistics from the 2026 season demonstrate her all-around game.
She played an average of 32.3 minutes per game, indicating her importance to the team's strategy and performance.
Young's scoring average of 18.9 points per game places her among the league's elite scorers.
Between the lines: Young's decision to become a free agent could lead to a bidding war among teams looking to bolster their rosters.
Her track record of success and experience in high-pressure situations makes her a prime target for franchises aiming to compete for championships.
Last offseason, Young chose to remain with the Aces, but her current unrestricted status may change the dynamics of her decision-making.
What's next: As the offseason approaches, Young's next steps will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
With multiple teams likely vying for her services, Young's choices will shape the future of the WNBA.
Her performance in the upcoming offseason workouts and potential negotiations will be key to determining her next destination.
Jackie Young's future remains uncertain following the Aces' playoff exit, but her talent and determination will undoubtedly attract attention across the league.