Is A’ja Wilson Playing vs Dallas Wings Tonight? Injury Report, Starting 5 & More

Remember Paige Bueckers’ first pro basket vs A’ja Wilson & Co.?It was a harsh first taste of the pros that likely came with a bruise to remember. She drove straight into the Aces’ defense, floated in a lefty shot, and crashed hard to the baseline.It was a statement shot. Everyone celebrated the highlight. But little did anyone know…it was the start of a string of losses for Dallas.

Now here we are, into the regular season, and the Wings have dropped 10 of their last 11 games. They’re sitting at the bottom of the standings, searching for answers. But they’re not the only ones struggling. The Las Vegas have had a rocky stretch themselves. If Sunday’s 27-point loss to the Golden State Valkyries was a new low, then Monday’s 97-89 defeat to the Sparks might’ve just been rock bottom. And just as they return home for a Friday night matchup against the Wings, another storm brews – this time involving their biggest star.

A’ja Wilson’s status vs Dallas Wings

Reigning MVP A’ja Wilson is listed as doubtful for tonight’s matchup against the Dallas Wings due to a head injury she suffered in the Aces’ loss to the Sparks. Wilson exited the game with just over a minute left in the third quarter and didn’t return.

According to Aces staff, she sustained a facial injury – presumably after being elbowed by former teammate Dearica Hamby during a layup attempt. Wilson immediately grabbed her face and was seen in visible discomfort as she headed to the bench. Coach Becky Hammon later confirmed that Wilson was scheduled to see a doctor on June 12, but didn’t provide any concrete update beyond that. As of now, her status remains uncertain but doubtful.

Sep 29, 2023; Arlington, Texas, USA; Las Vegas Aces forward A’ja Wilson (22) walks off the court after the Aces victory over the Dallas Wings during game three of the 2023 WNBA Playoffs at College Park Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

If Wilson doesn’t suit up, the Aces lose their top scorer, rebounder, and defensive anchor. It would also mean fans miss out on what could’ve been a marquee matchup between Wilson and rookie sensation. In addition to Wilson, the Aces will also be without Megan Gustafson and Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, both of whom are officially ruled out. Joyner Holmes, on the other hand, is listed as probable.

On the Wings’ side, there are also multiple updates. DiJonai Carrington sustained a shoulder injury during their game against the Phoenix Mercury. She’s listed as probable. Myisha Hines-Allen is questionable with a lingering knee issue, while Tyasha Harris and Teaira McCowan will miss the game.

Predicted starting lineups

Las Vegas Aces:

Kiah Stokes A’ja Wilson (If out, Tiffany Mitchell may start) Chelsea Gray Jewell Loyd Jackie Young

Dallas Wings:

Myisha Hines-Allen Luisa Geiselsoder Arike Ogunbowale DiJonai Carrington (If unavailable, NaLyssa Smith could return to the starting lineup) Paige Bueckers

How the matchup looks

This matchup is about more than just standings, it’s about pride. Both teams are searching for a much-needed reset. For the Aces, that reset needs to come after back-to-back losses. The recent losses have even put them in the fourth spot in the Western Conference. Then there’s Dallas, the last in Western Conference. Despite the painful record, the team isn’t short on talent. But most of their losses haven’t even been close.

That said, both teams are coming into this matchup riding standout performances from their stars. Jackie Young exploded for 34 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists in the Aces’ recent clash. Meanwhile, Bueckers was the lone bright spot against Phoenix, finishing with 35 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Arike Ogunbowale, usually their go-to scorer, struggled in that same game. Her inconsistency has hurt Dallas’ chances of closing out games.

May 19, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Wings forward Myisha Hines-Allen (2) and guard Paige Bueckers (5) and guard DiJonai Carrington (21) in action during the game between the Dallas Wings and the Seattle Storm at College Park Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

To add to it, unfortunately for them, history isn’t on their side. The Wings have not won a game in Las Vegas since 2018. Hence, the Aces, even with all their struggles, tend to dominate Dallas on their home court. A matchup against the struggling Dallas Wings is the perfect opportunity for A’ja Wilson & Co.. Even without Wilson, the combination of Young, Gray, and Loyd could prove too much.

Our pick: The Las Vegas Aces. The reason? The current form and the strength of their opponent. 

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