Championing Excellence: Celebrating the Las Vegas Aces at the White House
In a heartwarming ceremony at the White House, the Las Vegas Aces were lauded for their outstanding achievements in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), including clinching the 2023 championship title. The event, filled with joy and commendation, took place on the afternoon of September 15, 2023, featuring key figures such as Vice President Kamala Harris, President Joe Biden, team members, and other distinguished guests.
Historic Achievement
The Las Vegas Aces made headlines with their remarkable journey, setting a WNBA record of 34 regular-season wins and successfully defending their championship title, a feat not accomplished by any WNBA team in over two decades. Their triumphant path was highlighted by Vice President Harris, who praised the team for their resilience, skill, and teamwork. The Vice President recounted memorable moments from the decisive games, emphasizing the players’ performances that led to their victorious campaign.
Vice President Harris remarked, “As a team, you all are defined by your excellence and by your resilience…And of course, the result: 34 regular season wins — a WNBA record — and another championship trophy.”
President Joe Biden continued the accolades by recognizing the team’s influence beyond the basketball court, specifically their commitment to community support and advocacy for equality. The President’s humorous comment to MVP A’ja Wilson, “A’ja, when she was saying you’re one of the best, she was including men in that,” underscored the admiration for the team’s talent and contributions to the sport.
Advocacy and Community Engagement
The Las Vegas Aces are celebrated not only for their championship victories but also for their positive impact off the court. Vice President Harris highlighted their efforts in advocating for the freedom to vote, LGBTQ rights, pay equity, and mentorship programs through the Las Vegas Aces Foundation. These actions reinforce the team’s role as influential figures in sports and society.
“And in addition to being champions on the court, you all are role models and leaders off the court,” Vice President Harris affirmed.
Recognition and Appreciation
The ceremony also served as an opportunity to acknowledge the broader achievements and challenges faced by women in sports. The event referenced historical milestones, such as the significant increase in the number of women in the Senate since 1992 and the continued growth of the WNBA, illustrating the evolving landscape of women’s sports and representation.
President Biden expressed support for women’s sports, emphasizing the importance of visibility, sponsorships, and community support to foster growth and inspiration across the nation. He touched on the significance of representation, stating, “It matters to girls and women, finally seeing themselves represented, and it matters to all of America.”
Looking Forward
As the ceremony concluded, President Biden humorously engaged with the team, showcasing the camaraderie and mutual respect between the nation’s leaders and the champions of women’s basketball. The presentation of Las Vegas Aces jerseys to the President and Vice President represented a symbolic gesture of appreciation and unity.
The White House’s acknowledgment of the Las Vegas Aces’ accomplishments and their broader significance to sports and society exemplifies the recognition of women’s achievements and the ongoing pursuit of equality and representation in all arenas.
In a moment of interaction with the press, President Biden was asked about potential debates with former President Trump, to which he responded, “Set it up.” This response, light-hearted yet direct, capped the event’s atmosphere of positivity and forward-looking optimism.
