A’ja Wilson Reacts as DeWanna Bonner & Alyssa Thomas Sound Off After Mercury’s Heartbreaking Loss to the Aces

In one of the most emotionally charged postgame press conferences of the WNBA playoffs, A’ja Wilson, DeWanna Bonner, and Alyssa Thomas all addressed the media following the Phoenix Mercury’s narrow defeat to the Las Vegas Aces — and the tension in the room was impossible to ignore.

Fresh off a stunning Game 4, emotions ran high as both teams reflected on what could be one of the most dramatic matchups of the postseason. A’ja Wilson, who led the Aces with another dominant double-double performance, appeared composed but clearly unsatisfied. “We got the win,” she said, “but it wasn’t clean. We let them hang around too long. This team [Mercury] doesn’t quit — and they made us earn every point tonight.”

Her comments set the tone for what became a revealing glimpse into the mindset of both teams. Across the hall, DeWanna Bonner — visibly frustrated — spoke bluntly about the Mercury’s struggles to close out games. “We had them,” Bonner said. “We had the energy, the defense, the hustle… but our shots didn’t fall when it mattered most. You can’t beat a team like the Aces if you don’t finish strong.”

Meanwhile, Alyssa Thomas echoed those frustrations but directed her focus toward the officiating and missed opportunities. “I’m proud of how we fought,” she said, “but there were moments where it felt like we weren’t getting the same calls. Still, we can’t rely on that — we’ve got to control what we can control.” Her statement immediately went viral online, sparking another round of debate among WNBA fans who have criticized playoff officiating throughout the season.

Back on the Aces’ side, A’ja Wilson defended her team’s resilience and responded directly to criticism that the Aces have relied too heavily on star power. “People can say whatever they want — about ratings, attendance, or hype — but when the lights come on, we perform. That’s what champions do,” she said. The crowd of reporters erupted as Wilson’s confidence turned the presser into a headline-making moment.

Kelsey Plum, seated beside her, nodded in agreement but stayed mostly quiet, letting Wilson command the moment. Her leadership — equal parts fierce and poised — reminded fans why she’s considered the heart of this Aces dynasty.

As Bonner and Thomas left the Mercury’s podium, both players hinted at offseason changes and accountability within the team. “We’ll be back,” Bonner said, pausing before adding, “but things have to change.”

Online, fans quickly flooded comment sections, praising Wilson’s composure and Bonner’s honesty. “That’s why A’ja is the face of the league,” one fan posted. Another replied, “Give Alyssa Thomas her respect — she’s the only one keeping Phoenix alive.”

With Game 5 looming and the series hanging in the balance, the postgame presser did more than recap a playoff clash — it revealed the raw emotion, rivalry, and pride fueling both teams.

If this matchup has proven anything, it’s that the battle between Wilson’s Aces and Bonner’s Mercury isn’t just about basketball — it’s about legacy, grit, and who truly wants it more.