Aces face Mercury in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals

By Becky Sullivan,

Leila Fadel

Published October 3, 2025 at 4:53 AM EDT

Game 1 of the WNBA Finals between the Las Vegas Aces and the Phoenix Mercury tips off Friday after Lynx star Napheesa Collier criticized the league's leadership, sparking controversy.

Becky Sullivan

Becky Sullivan has reported and produced for NPR since 2011 with a focus on hard news and breaking stories. She has been on the ground to cover natural disasters, disease outbreaks, elections and protests, delivering stories to both broadcast and digital platforms.

See stories by Becky Sullivan

Leila Fadel

Leila Fadel is a national correspondent for NPR based in Los Angeles, covering issues of culture, diversity, and race.

See stories by Leila Fadel

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