Aces president discusses roster moves in Q&A: ‘We believe in this team’

Aces President Nikki Fargas discussed the team's acquisition of forward NaLyssa Smith in a recent interview. Smith, traded from the Dallas Wings on June 30 for a 2027 first-round pick, recently spent her first night in her new Las Vegas apartment, highlighting the rapid transition. The 24-year-old, 6-foot-4 forward has averaged 6.8 points and five rebounds in her first five games with the Aces (10-11) and is set to face her former Dallas team soon.

Smith described her transition as smooth, crediting significant help from teammates, especially three-time WNBA MVP A'ja Wilson, whom she called the "biggest help" and who constantly coaches her. Despite initial distress upon learning of the trade (she posted feeling "sick to my stomach" on X), Smith expressed excitement about playing with Wilson, her WNBA "GOAT." The trade separated Smith from her partner, Wings guard-forward DiJonai Carrington.

Dallas Wings General Manager Curt Miller stated the trade offer was "too good to pass up," emphasizing the balance between present and future needs, especially given the rarity of acquiring a first-round pick under the new CBA.

Fargas explained the Aces' rationale for the trade: they identified a need to improve rebounding (offensively and defensively) and sought physicality, toughness, and scoring ability. Smith was seen as providing needed support for A'ja Wilson while fitting the team culture. Fargas also emphasized viewing Smith, despite her experience, as a "future investment" due to her youth and potential longevity with the organization, especially considering future uncertainties like expansion drafts and the CBA. Fargas confirmed that Aces coach Becky Hammon, who had previously spoken positively about Smith when she was drafted 2nd overall in 2022, was involved in the decision-making process.