Chelsea Gray made a triumphant return from injury, receiving a warm welcome from Las Vegas Aces fans as she stepped onto the court for the first time this season. The Aces went on to secure a 94-83 victory over the Seattle Storm, with Gray showcasing her skills and experience.
Gray, a five-time All-Star, had been sidelined for the first 12 games of the season due to a left foot injury sustained during the 2023 WNBA finals. Her return was met with excitement and applause from the crowd at Michelob Ultra Arena, who cheered her on as she made her first assist to Alysha Clark.
The assist marked a milestone for Gray, as it was her 1,500th career assist, making her the ninth player in WNBA history to achieve this feat. Throughout the game, Gray displayed her versatility on the court, contributing 7 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 1 point in just over 15 minutes of play.
Following the game, Gray expressed gratitude for the support she received from fans and the emotional journey of returning to the court after a long absence. Her presence was felt by the team, with Aces coach Becky Hammon highlighting Gray’s leadership and performance during the game.
In her 10th WNBA season, Gray has been a consistent performer, averaging 12.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 5.0 assists throughout her career. Her return to the Aces lineup comes at a critical time, as the team had faced challenges in previous games, losing five of their last seven matchups.
Gray’s impact goes beyond the court, as she is a key figure in the Aces’ success and team dynamics. Her experience and leadership were evident in the victory against the Storm, with the team rallying around her return and delivering a strong performance collectively.
Looking ahead, Gray will be representing the U.S. women’s national basketball team at the upcoming Paris Games, adding to her impressive resume that includes two WNBA championships and an Olympic gold medal. Her contributions to the Aces and the broader basketball community continue to inspire fans and aspiring players alike.
As the Aces prepare to face the Connecticut Sun in their next game, Gray’s return brings renewed energy and optimism to the team. Her presence on the court elevates the Aces’ performance and sets the stage for future successes as they strive for another championship title.