Dana Evans' Clutch Three Lifts Las Vegas Aces to Game 1 Victory Over Phoenix Mercury

In a thrilling encounter at the 2025 Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Finals held in Las Vegas on Saturday, October 4, 2025, guard Dana Evans propelled the Las Vegas Aces to a narrow 89-86 victory over the Phoenix Mercury. Evans sank a pivotal go-ahead three-pointer with just 3:40 left on the clock, significantly contributing to the Aces' triumph.

The Mercury remained within striking distance as Alyssa Thomas delivered a driving layup, closing the gap to a single point with 51.5 seconds remaining. However, Thomas faltered on both free-throw attempts thereafter, while Aces’ Jackie Young capitalized by converting two crucial foul shots that extended their lead to three points with 13.5 seconds to play.

In the final moments, Phoenix forward Satou Sabally missed a critical three-point shot, allowing Young to secure the rebound and cement Las Vegas’ win.

Evans finished the game with an impressive 21 points off the bench, shooting 8-for-13 overall, including 5-for-6 from beyond the arc. Additionally, she contributed four steals, seven assists, and two rebounds.

Reflecting on her decisive play in the fourth quarter, Evans stated, "I'm going to be honest, I'm just like in the zone in the game, I don't remember exactly. I just want to win really bad, so whatever that looks like, whatever my teammates need from me, I'm going to do it, whatever it is, to win."