Las Vegas Aces: Catching a WNBA Game in Sin City

Jason Copas
Las Vegas Aces

Las Vegas Aces tickets are your gateway to witnessing the electrifying energy of the WNBA’s back-to-back champions, who have turned Sin City into a basketball powerhouse. Since relocating to Las Vegas in 2018, the Aces have captured the hearts of fans with their dynamic play, led by two-time MVP A’ja Wilson and a roster stacked with Olympians like Kelsey Plum and Chelsea Gray. Their home games at Michelob ULTRA Arena, nestled within the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, offer an intimate yet high-octane experience that blends top-tier basketball with Vegas’s signature flair. Whether you’re a die-hard hoops fan or a visitor seeking a unique entertainment option, attending an Aces game is a must-do in 2025. This guide dives into everything you need to know to catch a game, from securing tickets to soaking in the game-day atmosphere and exploring nearby attractions.

The Las Vegas Aces have redefined professional sports in Nevada, becoming the first major franchise to bring a championship to the state in 2022, followed by another in 2023. Under the leadership of Hall of Fame coach Becky Hammon, the team set a WNBA regular-season win record of 34-6 in 2023, showcasing their dominance. In 2024, A’ja Wilson made history as the first WNBA player to score 1,000 points in a single season, cementing her status as a global superstar. The team’s success has fueled unprecedented fan demand, with the Aces becoming the first WNBA franchise to sell out season ticket memberships in back-to-back seasons (2024 and 2025), a feat announced before the prior season even ended. This surge in popularity means planning ahead for tickets is crucial, especially for high-profile matchups against rivals like the New York Liberty or Phoenix Mercury.

Las Vegas Aces game
Plum in Las Vegas Aces Game

Michelob Ultra Arena – Las Vegas Aces Home

Michelob Ultra Arena, the Las Vegas Aces’ home since 2018, is a 12,000-seat venue that strikes a perfect balance between intimacy and excitement. Located on the Las Vegas Strip, it offers clear sightlines from nearly every seat, ensuring you’re close to the action whether you’re courtside or in the upper bowl. The arena led the WNBA in attendance in 2023, averaging 9,551 fans per game, and in 2024, it became the first to sell out every regular-season home game. Its modern amenities, including a high-definition video board and premium concessions, enhance the experience, while its location within Mandalay Bay makes it easy to pair a game with dining or entertainment. The arena’s vibrant atmosphere, fueled by fans in black, silver, and white waving glow sticks and chanting for their team, creates a sense of community that’s rare for a tourist-heavy city.

Selecting the Best WNBA Game to Attend

Securing Las Vegas Aces tickets for the 2025 season, which runs from May to September, requires strategic planning due to the team’s popularity. The season kicks off with a home opener against the Phoenix Mercury on May 6, followed by key games like the Washington Mystics on May 23 and the Los Angeles Sparks on June 11. The Aces play 44 regular-season games, with 22 at home, though the final three home games (against Minnesota on September 4 and Chicago on September 7 and 9) will be at T-Mobile Arena due to scheduling conflicts. Single-game tickets start as low as $10 for upper-bowl seats, with courtside and VIP options reaching up to $600 per game, according to TicketSmarter and Ticketmaster. Season ticket memberships, priced at $220 for the upper bowl, are sold out, but joining the waitlist with a $25 deposit per seat offers priority access to single-game tickets and potential future memberships. Platforms like Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats are reliable for purchasing tickets, with Vivid Seats offering rewards credits and a 100% buyer guarantee. Checking these sites early, especially for Commissioner’s Cup games (June 1-17) or rivalry matchups, helps you snag the best seats at affordable prices.

Choosing the right game depends on your preferences as a fan. Early-season games, like the May 23 home opener, offer a festive vibe with ceremonies and manageable crowds, making them ideal for families or first-timers. Rivalry games against the New York Liberty (July 8 away, but watch for home rematches) or Seattle Storm (June 20) bring heightened intensity, as these teams have battled the Aces in recent playoffs. Commissioner’s Cup matchups, such as the June 15 game against Phoenix, add an extra layer of stakes, as the Aces aim to reclaim the in-season tournament they won in 2022. Late-season games, especially in August and September, are critical for playoff positioning, drawing larger crowds and a playoff-like atmosphere. For the best value, weekday games tend to have lower ticket prices and fewer crowds than weekend matchups, allowing you to enjoy the arena’s amenities without the rush.

Spotlight Vegas Las Vegas Aces Full Tilt Dance Crew 2023
Las Vegas Aces Full Tilt Dance Crew 2023 Professional Dancers for the WNBA Las Vegas Aces Basketball Team – Credit: Full Tilt Dance Crew

Preparing for your Ultra Experience at a Las Vegas Aces Game

Getting to Michelob ULTRA Arena is straightforward, given its prime location on the Strip. Mandalay Bay offers parking for $15-$20, though season ticket holders renewing from 2024 receive free parking as a perk. For those staying on the Strip, the free Mandalay Bay-Excalibur tram or a short walk from nearby resorts like Luxor or MGM Grand makes access easy. Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft are popular, with designated drop-off zones at Mandalay Bay ensuring quick entry. The arena is cashless, so bring a credit card or mobile payment for concessions, which range from classic nachos to gourmet sliders. Arriving 30-45 minutes early allows you to explore fan zones, where you might catch player warm-ups, grab team merchandise, or participate in giveaways like Aces-branded T-shirts. Dressing in team colors and comfortable shoes is recommended, as you’ll likely stand and cheer during key moments.

The game-day experience at Michelob ULTRA Arena is a blend of high-energy basketball and Vegas-style entertainment. Pre-game festivities include live DJs, LED light shows, and appearances by the Aces’ mascot, Bucket$. The crowd, a mix of locals and tourists, creates a lively atmosphere, with chants of “Let’s go, Aces!” echoing through the arena. In-game entertainment features dance team performances, trivia contests on the video board, and kid-friendly activities like mini-hoop challenges during timeouts. The Aces’ core four—Wilson, Plum, Gray, and Jackie Young—deliver highlight-reel plays, from Wilson’s dominant post moves to Plum’s sharpshooting from beyond the arc. For newcomers, the fast-paced, 40-minute games (four 10-minute quarters) are easy to follow, with the arena’s screens providing stats and replays. Checking the Aces’ website or social media for starting lineups and injury updates helps you know which stars to watch.

Seating Options

To make the most of your visit, consider your seating options carefully. Lower-bowl seats, priced around $50-$150, offer proximity to the court and a clear view of player interactions, ideal for avid fans. Courtside seats, starting at $500 per game, provide a VIP experience with access to exclusive lounges and closer views of the bench. Upper-bowl seats, starting at $10, are budget-friendly and still offer great sightlines, especially in sections 201-204, which face the main video board. The arena’s compact size means there’s no bad seat, but booking through Ticketmaster’s seating chart lets you preview your view. For groups, the Aces offer packages with perks like scoreboard shoutouts, starting at $20 per person for 10 or more tickets. If you’re attending with kids, the arena’s family zone near section 120 provides activities and shorter concession lines, making it a stress-free outing.

Beyond the game, Las Vegas offers endless ways to extend your Aces experience. Mandalay Bay’s dining options, like Libertine Social for gastropub fare or Border Grill for modern Mexican, are perfect for pre- or post-game meals. For a high-end experience, book a table at Aureole, known for its wine tower and seafood dishes. Nearby, the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay hosts concerts, while Shark Reef Aquarium offers a family-friendly diversion. The Strip’s attractions, from Bellagio’s fountains to the High Roller observation wheel, are a short tram or rideshare away, letting you build a full day around the game. For a local vibe, head to Chinatown’s Gold Spike for craft cocktails or Sparrow + Wolf for inventive cuisine, both a 10-minute drive from the arena. Checking X for fan reactions during games, using hashtags like #AcesAllIn, connects you with the community and keeps you updated on real-time highlights.

Security at the Game

For those new to WNBA fandom, a few tips can enhance your experience. Games typically last about two hours, including a 15-minute halftime, so plan your schedule accordingly. The arena enforces a clear-bag policy, so bring a small clutch or transparent bag to streamline security checks. While cheering is encouraged, be mindful of keeping noise low during free throws to respect the players. The Aces’ mobile app provides live stats, roster info, and exclusive content, making it a handy tool for staying engaged. If you’re visiting during the Commissioner’s Cup (June 1-17), expect added excitement, as these games count toward a tournament championship with a lucrative prize pool. For playoff games, which begin in late September, ticket prices and demand spike, so joining the season ticket waitlist ensures early access to postseason presales.

Attending an Aces game also offers a chance to witness the WNBA’s growing cultural impact. The team’s 50,000-square-foot headquarters in Henderson, the first built solely for a WNBA franchise, reflects their commitment to excellence. Four Aces—Wilson, Plum, Gray, and Young—won gold with Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics, bringing global attention to the roster. Off the court, the team engages fans through community events, like youth clinics and charity drives, fostering a tight-knit fanbase. Posts on X highlight the Aces’ influence, with fans praising their sell-out streaks and Wilson’s record-breaking performances. Joining the conversation online or chanting alongside locals at the game lets you feel part of this historic moment in women’s sports.

Broader Las Vegas Entertainment Options

Pairing your Aces game with Las Vegas’s broader offerings turns a single event into a memorable getaway. Consider staying at Mandalay Bay for convenience, with rooms starting at $100 per night, or opt for nearby resorts like Delano or Four Seasons for luxury. Booking a package through MGM Resorts can bundle game tickets with dining credits or spa access, maximizing value. For a post-game adventure, explore Fremont Street’s nightlife, about 15 minutes away, or catch a show like Cirque du Soleil’s “O” at Bellagio. If you’re visiting in summer, the mild indoor climate of Michelob ULTRA Arena contrasts with the desert heat, so pack layers for evening outings. Checking the Aces’ schedule for themed nights, like Pride Night or Fan Appreciation Day, adds extra fun, with special giveaways or halftime performances.

Mandalay Bay near Las Vegas Aces games
Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas — Near Las Vegas Aces Games

Why attending a Las Vegas Aces game should be on your Todo List in 2025

Catching a Las Vegas Aces game in 2025 is more than just watching basketball—it’s an immersion into a city that amplifies every experience. From the thrill of Wilson’s dunks to the camaraderie of fans in the stands, the Aces deliver a sports event that rivals Vegas’s biggest shows. By securing tickets early, choosing the right seats, and planning your day around the Strip’s attractions, you can craft a perfect game-day adventure. Whether you’re cheering from courtside or the upper bowl, the energy of Michelob ULTRA Arena and the Aces’ championship pedigree promise an unforgettable night. So grab your Las Vegas Aces tickets, don your team gear, and get ready to experience WNBA basketball in the heart of Sin City.

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