As the Las Vegas Aces prepare for the 2026 WNBA season, three-time defending champions are eyeing history. A’ja Wilson, the league’s only four-time MVP, made it clear at media day that she thrives on doubters.

“I like making people mad,” Wilson said. “I like proving people wrong. I like to let people just burn because me and my team are doing great.”

The Aces are on the brink of joining the WNBA’s winningest teams. Only the Houston Comets (1997-2000) have won three titles in four years. The Minnesota Lynx won four in seven years (2011-2017). Las Vegas can become the first team to win back-to-back titles twice.

Wilson, along with guards Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young, has been part of every championship run. Gray, a free agent addition in 2021, recalled being recruited by former coach Bill Laimbeer. “We recruited Chelsea Gray for the longest time,” Laimbeer said. “A’ja wanted Chelsea on this basketball team.”

Young, drafted No. 1 overall in 2019, reflected on the team’s journey. “We hear a lot of talk about (being a dynasty), and that comes with winning,” she said. “We didn’t come in here as a top team. Just working our way up.”

The Aces’ foundation was built through the draft. After moving from San Antonio in 2018, Las Vegas selected Wilson with the No. 1 pick. She led South Carolina to an NCAA title and immediately transformed the franchise. The Aces went 14-20 in Wilson’s rookie year, earning another top pick to select Young.

“We got the best player in women’s basketball within one pick,” Laimbeer said. “But there are learning curves.”

The duo led the Aces to their first Finals in 2020, where they were swept by Seattle. After adding Gray, they fell in the 2021 semifinals. Then Becky Hammon took over as head coach in 2022, leading the team to its first title. Now, with three consecutive championships, the Aces are chasing immortality.

Gray emphasized the importance of appreciating the moment. “You can’t take that for granted,” she said. “Before you know it, it’s kind of over.”