What's next for Jackie Young with Aces out of the playoffs

Story by

Story by
What's next for Jackie Young with Aces out of the playoffs

What's next for Jackie Young with Aces out of the playoffs

Callie Fin, USA TODAY · USA TODAY Sports

Sat, Oct 10, 2026 ·

3 min read

About Our Ads

The defending WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces have been eliminated from the WNBA postseason by the Golden State Valkyries , which means it's time to look to 2027.

Guard Jackie Young has completed her eighth season in the WNBA. The 29-year-old signed a one-year deal with Las Vegas in the offseason and will now be a unrestricted free agent.

A five-time All-Star and two-time all-WNBA selection, Young has played for the Aces her entire career after being drafted by organization No. 1 overall in 2019 out of Notre Dame. From winning the league's Most Improved Player award in 2022 to becoming one of the best two-way players the in league, Young has been an important piece of the each of the Aces' three WNBA titles.

Young is also a two-time Olympic gold medalist and won player of the game in the gold-medal match when Team USA beat France in the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup in Berlin.

Although Young is sure to draw plenty of interest on the free-agent market, the same was true last offseason, when she didn't consider any other teams.

"I didn't take any meetings. Obviously I love it here, got drafted here. Vegas is where I want to be," Young said when asked about her process to re-sign on a one-year deal in April during the Aces' training camp for the 2026 season. "My mindset was always to come back to Vegas ... I'm excited to be back."

1 /96

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

The WNBA semifinals continue with the New York Liberty, Atlanta Dream, Las Vegas Aces and Golden State Valkyries battling for a spot in the Finals.

Above, Game 3:Kayla Thornton #5 of the Golden State Valkyries reacts after hitting a 3-pointer against the Las Vegas Aces in the third quarter of Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Valkyries defeated the Aces 87-77 in overtime to win the series 3-0.

(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Kaitlyn Chen #2 of the Golden State Valkyries celebrates after defeating the Las Vegas Aces in Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Kiah Stokes #41 of the Golden State Valkyries blocks a shot attempt by A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces in the third quarter of Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces drives to the basket against Kiah Stokes #41 of the Golden State Valkyries in the fourth quarter of Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Tiffany Hayes #15 and Kaila Charles #6 of the Golden State Valkyries celebrate after defeating the Las Vegas Aces in Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Kiah Stokes #41 and Kaila Charles #6 of the Golden State Valkyries huddle with teammates after their 87-77 overtime victory over the Las Vegas Aces in Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Gabby Williams #1 and Kaila Charles #6 of the Golden State Valkyries celebrate on the court after the team's 87-77 overtime victory over the Las Vegas Aces in Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Valkyries won the series 3-0.
(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Kayla Thornton #5 of the Golden State Valkyries reacts after making a 3-pointer against the Las Vegas Aces in the third quarter of Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Gabby Williams #1 of the Golden State Valkyries celebrates with Veronica Burton #22 after making a 3-pointer against the Las Vegas Aces during overtime of Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:** Las Vegas Aces center A'ja Wilson (22) looks on in the first half during game three of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs against the Golden State Valkyries at Michelob Ultra Arena.
(Candice Ward, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 3:** Las Vegas Aces guard Jackie Young (0) and Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes (15) react in the first half during game three of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at Michelob Ultra Arena.
(Candice Ward, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 3:**Tiffany Hayes #15 of the Golden State Valkyries looks to pass the ball around A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces in the first quarter of Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Tiffany Hayes #15 of the Golden State Valkyries drives to the basket against Jackie Young #0 of the Las Vegas Aces in the first quarter of Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Dana Evans #11 of the Las Vegas Aces drives to the basket against Kaitlyn Chen #2 of the Golden State Valkyries in the first quarter of Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:** Las Vegas Aces guard Jackie Young (0) brings the ball up the court against the Golden State Valkyries in the first half during game three of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at Michelob Ultra Arena.
(Candice Ward, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 3:**Kaitlyn Chen #2 of the Golden State Valkyries drives to the basket against Dana Evans #11 of the Las Vegas Aces in the first quarter of Game Three of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(Ethan Miller, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream and Jonquel Jones #35 of the New York Liberty collide during the second quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream reacts after making a basket during the first quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs against the New York Liberty at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**DeWanna Bonner #24 of the Atlanta Dream reacts after being fouled during the fourth quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs against the New York Liberty at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Jonquel Jones #35 of the New York Liberty defends DeWanna Bonner #24 of the Atlanta Dream during the fourth quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Isobel Borlase #20 of the Atlanta Dream drives to the basket against Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty during the fourth quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Rhyne Howard #10 of the Atlanta Dream separates Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream and Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty during the second quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Marine Fauthoux #4 of the New York Liberty reacts during the second quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs against the Atlanta Dream at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty drives to the basket against Rhyne Howard #10 of the Atlanta Dream during the first quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream dribbles the ball during the first quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs against the New York Liberty at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Naz Hillmon #00 of the Atlanta Dream defends Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty during the first quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream gestures during the first quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs against the New York Liberty at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty looks to pass during the first quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs against the Atlanta Dream at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 3:**DeWanna Bonner #24 of the Atlanta Dream defends Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty during the first quarter of game three of the SemiFinals of the WNBA Playoffs at Barclays Center on October 09, 2026 in New York City.
(Ishika Samant, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Tiffany Hayes #15 of the Golden State Valkyries goes up for a shot against A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces in the second half during Game Two of the Semifinals at Chase Center on October 7, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Gabby Williams #1 of the Golden State Valkyries reacts after making a three-point shot against the Las Vegas Aces in the second half during Game Two of the Semifinals at Chase Center on October 7, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Veronica Burton #22 of the Golden State Valkyries reacts after making a three-point shot against the Las Vegas Aces late in the second half during Game Two of the Semifinals at Chase Center on October 7, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Tiffany Hayes #15 of the Golden State Valkyries drives to the basket on Kalani Brown #20 of the Las Vegas Aces in the second half during Game Two of the Semifinals at Chase Center on October 7, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces shoots over Kiah Stokes #41 of the Golden State Valkyries in the first half during Game Two of the Semifinals at Chase Center on October 7, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Kalani Brown #20 of the Las Vegas Aces goes up to shoot over Aminata Gueye #31 and Veronica Burton #22 of the Golden State Valkyries in the first half during Game Two of the Semifinals at Chase Center on October 7, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Gabby Williams #1 of the Golden State Valkyries shoots a three-point shot over Kalani Brown #2 of the Las Vegas Aces in the first half during Game Two of the Semifinals at Chase Center on October 7, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Kiah Stokes #41 of the Golden State Valkyries blocks the shot of Jackie Young #0 of the Las Vegas Aces in the first half during Game Two of the Semifinals at Chase Center on October 7, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images)

**Game 2:** Las Vegas Aces center A'ja Wilson (22) drives in against Golden State Valkyries center Kiah Stokes (41) during the first quarter of game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at Chase Center.
(Kelley L Cox, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:** Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase claps from the sideline during the first quarter of game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs against the Las Vegas Aces at Chase Center.
(Kelley L Cox, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:** Golden State Valkyries forward Kayla Thornton (5) scores a three point basket against the Las Vegas Aces during the first quarter of game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at Chase Center.
(Kelley L Cox, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:** Golden State Valkyries center Kiah Stokes (41) and Las Vegas Aces forward Brianna Turner (21) go up for the ball at tip off game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at Chase Center.
(Kelley L Cox, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream celebrates after winning game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs against the New York Liberty at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Rhyne Howard #10 of the Atlanta Dream shoots over Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty during the second half of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Angel Reese #5 and Naz Hillmon #00 of the Atlanta Dream reacts during overtime of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs against the New York Liberty at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Rhyne Howard #10 of the Atlanta Dream celebrates scoring while being fouled during the second half of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs against the Atlanta Dream at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Jordin Canada #3 of the Atlanta Dream drives against Marine Fauthoux #4 of the New York Liberty during the second half of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream reacts during the second half of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs against the New York Liberty at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Marine Fauthoux #4 of the New York Liberty reacts during the second half of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs against the Atlanta Dream at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:** Atlanta Dream guard Rhyne Howard (10) shoots a three point shot against New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu (20) during the second quarter of game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena.
(Jordan Godfree, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:** Atlanta Dream forward Naz Hillmon (00) looks for the rebound against New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart (30) in the first quarter during game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena.
(Jordan Godfree, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:** Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese (5) attempts a shot against New York Liberty center Han Xu (21) and forward Breanna Stewart (30) during the first quarter during game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena.
(Jordan Godfree, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:** New York Liberty guard Marine Fauthoux (4) during the game against the Atlanta Dream in the second quarter of game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena.
(Jordan Godfree, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:** Atlanta Dream forward Naz Hillmon (00) fights for possession on the ball against New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu (20) during the first quarter during game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena.
(Jordan Godfree, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:** Atlanta Dream guard Isobel Borlase (20), forward Naz Hillmon (00), forward Angel Reese (5), guard Jordin Canada (3), and guard Rhyne Howard (10) in a huddle during the game against the New York Liberty during the first quarter of game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena.
(Jordan Godfree, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:**Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty drives against Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream during the first half of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Jonquel Jones #35 of the New York Liberty blocks the shot of Rhyne Howard #10 of the Atlanta Dream in the first half of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Naz Hillmon #00 and Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream celebrates during the first half of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs against the New York Liberty at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream reacts during the first half of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs against the New York Liberty at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Jonquel Jones #35 of the New York Liberty shoots against Rhyne Howard #10 of the Atlanta Dream during the first half of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Han Xu #21 of the New York Liberty shoots against Rhyne Howard #10 of the Atlanta Dream during the first half of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty drives against Rhyne Howard #10 of the Atlanta Dream during the first half of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty celebrates during the first half of game against the Atlanta Dream in game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream shoots the ball against Han Xu #21 of the New York Liberty during the first quarter of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 7, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Paras Griffin, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty handles the ball against Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream during the first quarter of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 7, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Paras Griffin, Getty Images)

**Game 2:** Atlanta Dream guard Jordin Canada (3) dribbles the ball towards the basket against New York Liberty guard Pauline Astier (18) during the first quarter of game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena.
(Jordan Godfree, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream anticipates the ball against the New York Liberty during the first quarter of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 7, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Paras Griffin, Getty Images)

**Game 2:**Rhyne Howard #10 of the Atlanta Dream looks to pass against the New York Liberty during the first quarter of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 7, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Paras Griffin, Getty Images)

**Game 2:** Atlanta Dream forward Naz Hillmon (00) attempts to shoot the ball against New York Liberty forward Leonie Fiebich (13) during the first quarter of game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena.
(Jordan Godfree, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:** Atlanta Dream forward Naz Hillmon (00) and forward Angel Reese (5) celebrate a foul called against the New York Liberty during the first quarter of game two of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena.
(Jordan Godfree, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

**Game 2:**Naz Hillmon #00 of the Atlanta Dream and Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream celebrate against the New York Liberty during the first quarter of game two of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 7, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Paras Griffin, Getty Images)

**Game 1:** Las Vegas Aces center A'ja Wilson (22) fouls Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes (15) as she drives to the basket during the second quarter of game one of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 4, 2026.
(D. Ross Cameron, Imagn Images)

**Game 1:** Golden State Valkyries forward Gabby Williams (1) and Golden State Valkyries center Kiah Stokes (41) combine to block a shot by Las Vegas Aces center A'ja Wilson (22) during the first quarter of game one of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 4, 2026.
(D. Ross Cameron, Imagn Images)

**Game 1:**Kaitlyn Chen #2 of the Golden State Valkyries reacts to a made basket in the second quarter against the Las Vegas Aces during the Semifinals Game One at Chase Center on October 4, 2026 in San Francisco.
(Kavin Mistry, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**Gabby Williams #1 of the Golden State Valkyries dribbles with the ball in the second quarter against the Las Vegas Aces during the Semifinals Game One at Chase Center on October 4, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Kavin Mistry, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**Aminata Gueye #31 and Kaitlyn Chen #2 of the Golden State Valkyries celebrate a made basket in the third quarter against the Las Vegas Aces during the Semifinals Game One at Chase Center on October 4, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Kavin Mistry, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces attempts a jump shot in the third quarter against Gabby Williams #1 of the Golden State Valkyries during the Semifinals Game One at Chase Center on October 4, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Kavin Mistry, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**Tiffany Hayes #15 of the Golden State Valkyries dribbles with the ball against A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces in the fourth quarter during the Semifinals Game One at Chase Center on October 4, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Kavin Mistry, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**A'ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces looks on between plays in the fourth quarter against the Golden State Valkyries during the Semifinals Game One at Chase Center on October 4, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Kavin Mistry, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**Kaitlyn Chen #2 of the Golden State Valkyries blocks Mai Yamamoto #18 of the Las Vegas Aces in the fourth quarter during the Semifinals Game One at Chase Center on October 4, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Kavin Mistry, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**Kayla Thornton #5 of the Golden State Valkyries celebrates after a play in the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Aces during the Semifinals Game One at Chase Center on October 4, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
(Kavin Mistry, Getty Images)

**Game 1:** Golden State Valkyries forward Janelle Salaun (center) is surrounded by her teammates as she is awarded the Sixth Man award for 2026 before game one of the second round of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs against the Las Vegas Aces at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 4, 2026.
(D. Ross Cameron, Imagn Images)

**Game 1:** New York Liberty guard Pauline Astier (18) grabs a loose ball past Atlanta Dream guard Allisha Gray (15) in the first quarter during game one of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 4, 2026.
(Brett Davis, Imagn Images)

**Game 1:**New York Liberty guard Pauline Astier (18) drives past Atlanta Dream guard Jordin Canada (3) in the first quarter during game one of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 4, 2026.
(Brett Davis, Imagn Images)

**Game 1:** New York Liberty center Jonquel Jones (35) and Atlanta Dream guard Rhyne Howard (10) fight for a loose ball in the first quarter during game one of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 4, 2026.
(Brett Davis, Imagn Images)

**Game 1:** New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu (20) drives on Atlanta Dream guard Rhyne Howard (10) and guard Isobel Borlase (20) in the first quarter during game one of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 4, 2026.
(Brett Davis, Imagn Images)

**Game 1:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream drives against Jonquel Jones #35 of the New York Liberty during the first quarter of game one of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on Oct. 4, 2026 in Atlanta.
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**Naz Hillmon #00 of the Atlanta Dream turns into Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty during the first quarter of game one of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on Oct. 4, 2026 in Atlanta.
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)

**Game 1:** New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart (30) drives on Atlanta Dream forward Naz Hillmon (00) in the first quarter during game one of the second round for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on Oct. 4, 2026.
(Brett Davis, Imagn Images)

**Game 1:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream drives against Han Xu #21 of the New York Liberty during the second quarter of game one of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 04, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream passes the ball against Sabrina Ionescu #20 and Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty during the second quarter of game one of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on Oct. 4, 2026 in Atlanta.
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**DeWanna Bonner #24 of the Atlanta Dream reacts after hitting a three-point basket against the New York Liberty during the fourth quarter of game one of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 04, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream reacts with Naz Hillmon #00 and Jordin Canada #3 after drawing a foul on a basket against the New York Liberty during the fourth quarter of game one of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on October 04, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**Fans react to Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream celebrating in the final seconds of their 92-82 win over the New York Liberty in game one of the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs at State Farm Arena on Oct. 4, 2026 in Atlanta.
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)

**Game 1:**Angel Reese of the Atlanta Dream is honored for winning the WNBA Kia Defensive Player of the Year award before the Semi-Finals Game 1 against the New York Liberty on Oct. 4, 2026 at State Farm Arena at College Park in Atlanta, Ga.
(Paras Griffin, Getty Images)

Instead of exploring her options, Young was in the lab.

"I spend a lot of time in the gym in the offseason just trying to get my body right so that I'm able to play at a high level during the season," Young said after scoring a career-high 35 points this season against the Seattle Storm in September. "At the same time, I spend a lot of time in the offseason just working on my game."

During the 2026 regular season with the Aces, Young averaged 18.9 points, 4.4 rebounds and 6.8 assists as she started in all 43 contests while playing 32.3 minutes per game.

Aces discuss Jackie Young free agency

The Aces finished with the No. 3 seed in the playoffs with a 31-13 regular-season record. They were bounced out of the second round of the playoffs by the Valkyries on Friday, Oct. 9.

"She had a career year this year. (She) had some unbelievable performances throughout the season," Aces coach Becky Hammon said of Young after the loss. "So obviously it's a big priority that we retain her services, and we'll see what those talks look like, but I know what it looks like from our end. Ultimately, it's gonna come down to her decision."

Wilson and Aces star A'ja Wilson has played alongside Young since she was drafted with th said Friday that she'll be handling her relationship with Young this offseason the same way she always would.

"Jackie's a big girl. She's an adult.  I'm never not going to be in her ear. I'm constantly always in Jackie's ear," Wilson said. "I know when she needs that, that big sister, but also when she needs that space.

"Going into this offseason, obviously, I'm just gonna be me, I'm gonna change too much, because that's not what Jackie needs. She needs someone that's going to be consistent and I hope that I can do that."

Jackie Young contract

Young signed a one-year, $1.19 million contract with the Las Vegas Aces for the 2026 season and will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason. She's played all eight of her professional seasons with the Aces. Her career earnings are $1,937,647, according to Spotrac .

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What's next for Jackie Young with Aces out of the playoffs

Mobilize your Website

View Site in Mobile | Classic

Share by:

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Gabby Williams is headed to the WNBA Finals. See her career in photos

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Gabby Williams is headed to the WNBA Finals. See her career in photos

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action

Liberty, Dream and Aces, Valkyries in WNBA semifinal playoff action