The Las Vegas Aces are not resting on their laurels. After securing their status as WNBA champions, the franchise has shifted into high-stakes offseason mode, making a series of bold moves designed to solidify a dynasty. While locking in a generational superstar is the obvious play, the Aces' other gambles add intriguing layers of risk and reward to their quest for a repeat.

First, the surefire win: A’ja Wilson is now the highest-paid player in league history. The reigning Finals MVP and face of the franchise has inked a landmark three-year supermax contract worth $5 million, beginning in 2026. For a player with three championships, four MVP awards, and a transformative impact on the franchise, this deal is the very definition of a no-brainer. As General Manager Nikki Fargas stated, Wilson has led the Aces to the pinnacle of the sport with "confidence, authenticity and grace." Betting on A’ja is betting on a proven winner.

But the Aces' ambition extends beyond their cornerstone. Their strategy also involves betting on potential, targeting elite talent whose paths to the pros have been unconventional. This was exemplified in the 2026 Draft, where the Dallas Wings selected Azzi Fudd first overall—a testament to her resilience after navigating significant adversity since her days as a heralded high school recruit.

Following a similar blueprint, the Aces have placed a major bet on Janiah Barker. Once touted as the potential future No. 1 pick in the class following Fudd's, Barker was the No. 3-ranked recruit, a modern wing with coveted size, athleticism, and ball-handling skills. Her journey, however, has been a winding one, marked by a transfer from Georgia to follow coach Joni Taylor to Texas A&M. For the Aces, securing her represents a high-upside gamble, banking on her elite pedigree to translate into WNBA stardom and complement their championship core.