LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — The Las Vegas Aces lost rookie Aaliyah Nye in the WNBA expansion draft held Friday afternoon, as the league added two new franchises: the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo.
Ahead of the draft, every team in the league submitted a list of up to five protected players that could not be taken by an expansion team. The Aces got through the draft fairly unscathed, with Nye being the only Las Vegas player selected.
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Nye is coming off a solid rookie season, contributing in the 15 minutes of playing time she averaged per game.
In a statement shared following the draft, the Aces thanked Nye for her contributions to the team, including helping the team in their 2025 championship victory.
A’ja Wilson commits to Las Vegas
The Aces will now prepare for free agency and the roster moves that will come with it. However, one thing is certain: despite being a free agent, superstar A’ja Wilson is not going anywhere.
The four-time league MVP told the media at USA Basketball camp this week that she is here to stay.
“I know I love Vegas. I’m not leaving Vegas, so I’m not looking anywhere,” Wilson said. “I’m looking to win another one, I’m looking to defend the championship that we have in Las Vegas.”
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