Patrick Beverly has never been one to hold back his opinions, and his latest claim has once again stirred debate across the basketball world following the Las Vegas Aces’ dominant showing in the WNBA Finals.
The 37-year-old said he genuinely believes A’ja Wilson’s team could defeat certain NBA squads under the right circumstances, something that many immediately dismissed as typical offseason banter.
However the veteran guard later confirmed he was serious during an episode of The Pat Bev Podcast with Rone as he doubled down on his stance.
“I’m looking at this team, I’m looking at Becky Hammon,” Beverly added. “I’m looking at A’ja Wilson, I’m looking at the way they won the game.
“And I’m like ‘I think they can beat an NBA team. Obviously, not the starters but like bench players, six seven, eight, nine ten, for sure.”
Beverly even specified which NBA teams he had in mind, pointing to struggling franchises such as the Washington Wizards, Charlotte Hornets, and Toronto Raptors, suggesting the Aces’ chemistry and physicality could give them an advantage.
But critics were quick to highlight the size and athleticism disparity between WNBA and NBA players. Yet Beverley stood firm, praising Wilson’s durability and consistency.
“She’s only missed six games in three years,” Patrick emphasized, implying that her fitness and leadership could offset any physical disadvantages against NBA role players.
While his comments drew widespread skepticism, some analysts noted the respect behind Beverly’s stance. The Aces, led by Finals MVP A’ja Wilson and head coach Becky Hammon, have redefined expectations in women’s basketball.
Their combination of spacing, defensive communication, and offensive versatility reflects principles used by elite NBA programs.
Still, the notion of a WNBA team defeating NBA professionals remains largely hypothetical. Skill levels overlap in areas like shooting and decision-making, but physical matchups, height, wingspan, and verticality, remain decisive factors.
Even Beverly’s clarification that he meant “bench units” rather than full rotations underscores the gap in competition level.
Interestingly, Beverly’s comment aligns with a broader discussion about respect for women’s basketball. Wilson herself has repeatedly advocated for the WNBA’s visibility and competitiveness to be recognized on equal analytical terms.
The Aces’ recent success and confident play have certainly amplified that conversation across sports media.
Aces owner hopes for positive CBA deal
Beyond Beverley’s remarks, the Las Vegas Aces face a critical offseason off the court, with just rookie Aaliyah Nye under contract for 2026, the franchise awaits the results of an upcoming collective bargaining agreement.
That deal could reshape WNBA salaries and roster flexibility and must be agreed by the end of October if the league hopes to avoid a lockout.
“I think they’ll work it out somehow, I hope – I haven’t been consulted,” Aces owner Mark Davis told reporters, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding negotiations.
The October 31st deadline is expected to pass without resolution, with player concerns focused on revenue sharing and league growth.
Anyhow, Davis also joked about extending head coach Becky Hammon’s record salary. Hammon currently earns $1 million per season.
That is roughly four times the value of a WNBA supermax contract, underscoring the pay disparity players hope the new CBA will address.
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