Back in October, MGM Resorts International announced they had acquired a WNBA franchise and were relocating the team to Las Vegas. This is a big undertaking but a smart move, considering Las Vegas is soon to be home to new sports teams, including an NHL team and the move of the Oakland Raiders to Sin City by the NFL. The company has now reached a decision on the name of the team, formerly known as the San Antonio Stars.
Las Vegas Aces Team
The team will now be known as the Las Vegas Aces, a well-suited name considering the new home location. Bill Laimbeer, the new coach of the team and former NBA all-star, commented on the new name stating that this is an important as well as symbolic step. According to Laimbeer, the city of Las Vegas has accepted the team with enthusiasm and the Aces are excited for the new opportunity.
Laimbeer stated that the new name is a nod to the ‘excellence, confidence and competitive spirit’ of the team’s new home town. Over the past three years, the team has been one of the worst performing in the league and hopefully this change and a strong roster will help the Aces see success.
Games At Mandalay Bay Events Center
Games will begin in 2018 with MGM hosting the team in the Mandalay Bay Events Center. There are at least 17 home games expected to take place. Early next year, season tickets will go on sale for the team with the new season beginning in May.
The MGM venues will not be taking wagers on the team as they are the owner and that would be a conflict of interest. However, other casinos located in Las Vegas will be taking action on the new Las Vegas Aces team. With almost 200 sports books in the region, it will not be difficult to find a venue to place bets!
