Aces Star NaLyssa Smith Out for Season, Dynasty in Jeopardy
PUBLISHED Sep 2, 2026, 10:20 AM ET
Las Vegas Aces forward NaLyssa Smith has been ruled out for the remainder of the WNBA season and playoffs due to a left leg injury sustained against the Toronto Tempo. The non-contact injury occurred in the third quarter of the August 23 game. Smith, acquired mid-season from the Dallas Wings, started every game this season, leading the league in field goal percentage at 63.8 percent while averaging 11.7 points per game. Her absence creates a significant frontcourt void alongside A'ja Wilson, who has also battled a back injury and subsequently withdrew from the FIBA World Cup. Coach Becky Hammon signed center Kalani Brown to fill the roster spot, but analysts question whether the defending champions can remain title favorites without Smith's interior efficiency and rebounding. The team faces intense pressure as postseason play approaches without two key rotation fixtures.
By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News
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Las Vegas Aces announced NaLyssa Smith out for the season on August 24, 2025. https://www.wnba.com/news/nalyssa-smith-injury-update
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Aces Star NaLyssa Smith Out for Season, Dynasty in Jeopardy
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