The Unsung Hero of the WNBA Finals: Dana Evans' Rise to Respect
In the aftermath of the Las Vegas Aces' triumphant 2025 WNBA Finals victory, the spotlight has understandably shone brightly on the legendary trio of A'ja Wilson, Jackie Young, and Chelsea Gray. Their dominance and talent are undeniable, but there's a crucial piece to this championship puzzle that often goes unnoticed.
Postseason basketball is a grueling test of a team's depth, and amidst the Aces' late-season surge, one name consistently stood out: Dana Evans. Now a two-time WNBA champion, Evans has proven herself to be an indispensable asset for any championship-contending team.
Finding Her Niche
When the Aces acquired Evans in early February, it didn't create much of a stir. Her career trajectory has been unique, consistently rostered but often underutilized. Despite being part of the Chicago Sky's championship-winning squad in 2021, Evans didn't see much playing time. It wasn't until 2023 that Chicago gave her a real chance, and she flourished, becoming a legitimate contender for the Sixth Player of the Year award. However, the following season brought new challenges, and her role became uncertain once again.
Traded to the Aces for draft picks, Evans joined a backcourt already brimming with All-WNBA talent. Most saw her as a depth addition, not a championship cornerstone. But here's where it gets controversial: Evans' impact on the Aces' championship run was immense, and she emerged as one of their most valuable players.
The Ultimate 'Alfred'
In a previous podcast, Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick coined the term 'ultimate Alfred' to describe a player who, like Batman's beloved butler, always finds a way to contribute, even if they're not the hero themselves. Dana Evans embodies this spirit. While she might not be tasked with gathering intel on A'ja Wilson's arch-nemesis or maintaining the Batcave, Evans possesses the rare ability to elevate her game when it matters most.
During the Aces' 12-game postseason run, Evans averaged an impressive 8.5 points and three assists, shooting an efficient 47/53/100 from the field. Her lone statistical weakness, a 40% 2-point percentage, is not what the Aces require from her. Evans' ability to lead the offense when Chelsea Gray needs a break is invaluable. Her confident and assertive approach as a point guard is a rarity for a bench player.
In Game 1 of the Finals, Evans' 21-point, five 3-pointer performance in just 25 minutes set the tone for the entire series. But what's even more remarkable is her ability to scale back and settle into her role seamlessly. In Game 2, she took a backseat, dishing out five assists and letting her teammates shine, resulting in a 13-point victory for the Aces. Evans' adaptability and coachability are a dream for any team.
The Importance of Ancillary Pieces
Repeating Finals success is a challenge that every team faces. To maintain contention, teams often go all-out, acquiring big-name players through free agency and trades. However, in their pursuit of stardom, they sometimes overlook the importance of finding the right ancillary pieces. Last year, the Aces fell short, and their lack of solid role players was a contributing factor.
Evans' value was uncertain when she left Chicago, but now, with a second championship under her belt, she's a player that every team desires. Her ability to step up and contribute when needed, without seeking the spotlight, is a testament to her character and skill. As the WNBA reflects on the 2025 Finals, let's not forget the impact of Dana Evans, the unsung hero who played a pivotal role in the Aces' triumph.
So, what do you think? Is Evans' impact often overlooked, or is she rightly recognized for her contributions? Let's discuss in the comments!
