Jackie Young Re-Signs with Las Vegas Aces on $1.19 Million Deal
The Las Vegas Aces have secured a major victory in the 2026 WNBA free agency period, finalizing an agreement to retain four-time All-Star guard Jackie Young. According to sources, the deal is a one-year contract worth the regular maximum salary of $1.19 million. This move keeps a foundational piece of the Aces' championship core in Las Vegas, alongside A'ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray, as the team aims to defend its 2025 title. Young, the 2019 No. 1 overall pick, has spent her entire professional career with the Aces, contributing to three championships in four years.
The Las Vegas Aces have taken a decisive step to maintain their championship dynasty, securing the return of a key pillar of their success. According to sources who spoke to ESPN, the franchise is finalizing an agreement with four-time All-Star guard Jackie Young on a one-year contract worth the regular maximum salary of $1.19 million. This move solidifies the Aces' core as they prepare to defend their 2025 WNBA title and pursue further dominance in the league.
Securing the Championship Core
Retaining Jackie Young was a top priority for the Aces' front office this offseason. As one of the premier two-way players in the WNBA, Young was anticipated to be one of the most sought-after free agents on the market. However, reports indicate she did not take meetings with any other teams, signaling her commitment to the franchise that drafted her. This agreement brings the Aces significantly closer to reuniting their celebrated "big three," which also includes four-time MVP A'ja Wilson—who has publicly stated her intent to remain in Las Vegas—and six-time All-Star Chelsea Gray.
Jackie Young's Career and Impact
Jackie Young's entire professional career has been defined by her contributions to the Aces' success. Drafted first overall in 2019 out of Notre Dame, where she was a national champion in 2018, Young has been instrumental in transforming Las Vegas into a WNBA powerhouse. Her accolades are a testament to her growth and consistency:
- Four-time WNBA All-Star (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)
- Two-time All-WNBA selection
- WNBA Most Improved Player (2022)
- Three-time WNBA Champion with the Aces (2022, 2023, 2025)
Her on-court production remains elite. During the 2025 championship season, the 6-foot guard averaged 16.5 points, 5.1 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game, showcasing her versatile skill set on both ends of the floor.
Implications for the Aces and the WNBA
This re-signing is more than a routine contract extension; it is a strategic move to preserve a dynasty. The Aces have won three championships in the past four years, and keeping their core intact is essential for sustaining that level of excellence. Young's decision to return, coupled with Wilson's stated commitment, sends a powerful message to the rest of the league about the culture and吸引力 of the Las Vegas organization. It also simplifies their offseason strategy, allowing them to focus on complementary roster pieces rather than searching for a star replacement.
Furthermore, Young's international pedigree adds to her value. She is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, having won with the U.S. 3x3 team in Tokyo (2020) and the 5-on-5 team in Paris (2024). This experience in high-pressure, global competitions undoubtedly benefits the Aces during crucial playoff moments.
Looking Ahead
With Jackie Young's return nearly official, the Las Vegas Aces are poised to enter the 2026 season as overwhelming favorites. The stability of their star trio provides a formidable foundation. The challenge for the organization now shifts to building the right supporting cast around them to navigate a competitive WNBA landscape and secure another championship. For fans and analysts, this move confirms that the Aces' championship window remains wide open, and their pursuit of a legacy continues unabated.
