Jackie Young’s Rise Continues: From Notre Dame Star to WNBA Champion and Franchise Cornerstone
Life couldn’t be much better right now for Notre Dame alumna and Las Vegas Aces guard Jackie Young. Over the past few years, she’s transformed from a promising college standout into one of the WNBA’s brightest stars—a player whose consistency, confidence, and competitiveness have made her indispensable to the league’s reigning champions.
A two-time WNBA All-Star and back-to-back champion, Young has not only become a fan favorite in Las Vegas but also one of the most complete guards in the game. Each season, her growth has been impossible to ignore—from her improved shooting efficiency to her leadership on both ends of the court. Her steady rise has mirrored the Aces’ dominance, making her extension with the team feel less like a surprise and more like a natural next step.
The Las Vegas Aces officially announced that they have signed Jackie Young to a contract extension, ensuring that one of their franchise pillars remains in the fold through 2025. General manager Natalie Williams spoke with excitement and confidence about what Young means to the team’s future.
“Jackie Young is a force to be reckoned with in the WNBA and one of the most dynamic shooting guards in the world,” Williams said in the team’s statement. “Signing Jackie to an extension through 2025 was absolutely a priority for us. Watching her growth, I believe she could be vying for that MVP title this season.”
That confidence is well placed. Young is coming off a season that saw her average 17.6 points per game, earning a spot on the All-WNBA Second Team—a testament to both her skill and her consistency. Her ability to score, facilitate, and defend at a high level has elevated her from a complementary player to a legitimate franchise cornerstone.
Fans of the Aces have every reason to be excited about what’s next. With A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, and Chelsea Gray forming a powerful core alongside Young, Las Vegas continues to set the standard for excellence in the WNBA. But it’s Jackie’s quiet intensity and relentless work ethic that have made her a true symbol of the Aces’ culture—a mix of discipline, confidence, and competitive fire.
Her story is also one that resonates deeply with Notre Dame fans. Young’s journey from South Bend to the professional stage is a shining example of what it means to carry the Fighting Irish spirit beyond college. From national championships to WNBA glory, she’s proven that success follows when talent meets focus and humility.
As the 2025 season approaches, one thing is clear: Jackie Young isn’t just part of the Aces’ present—she’s helping shape their future. And if her trajectory continues upward, the MVP talk might not just be hopeful speculation. It might soon become reality.
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