WNBA News: Las Vegas unveils official name as Aces

Last month, the new owners of the WNBA team in Las Vegas filed to add “Stars” to the franchise’s name as it gets established in Nevada. Today the owners announced the team would not be adding Stars, however, instead have decided on Aces.

The Las Vegas Aces will play all their home games at Mandalay Bay Events Center starting in 2018 when the WNBA starts again.

“Selecting a new name is an important and symbolic step,” said head coach Bill Laimbeer at the press conference. Las Vegas has enthusiastically embraced us, and we’re incredibly excited for this opportunity. We have a strong roster driven to succeed, which makes this name an ideal choice. ‘Las Vegas Aces’ is a nod to the excellence, confidence and competitive spirit of our new hometown.”

Lisa Borders, the President of the league also was present at the press conference today.

“We are ecstatic to officially welcome the Las Vegas Aces to the WNBA family. The Aces are already embracing the opportunity to develop a deep connection with the local community, and we can’t wait to watch them bring the WNBA’s brand of world-class basketball to their new home in 2018.”

While many WNBA players are currently overseas, Moriah Jefferson and Kayla Alexander were in attendance as their new team name was announced. Jefferson shared a special message live from Vegas.