A Star is Born in Las Vegas
On Tuesday night, the Las Vegas Aces witnessed a surprise burst of talent as Justine Pissott stepped onto the court and immediately made her presence felt. In just ten minutes of action, the rookie poured in 19 points, hitting five three‑pointers that left the crowd roaring. Her shooting display was not just a flash in the pan; it was a statement that the former college standout could compete at the highest level.
Pissott’s basketball odyssey began in New Jersey, where she honed her skills before attracting the attention of Vanderbilt assistant coach Kevin DeMille, who first spotted her at age thirteen. After a standout high school career, she committed to Tennessee, where she quickly rose to become the program’s highest‑ranked recruit in two years. She later transferred to Vanderbilt, playing under head coach Shea Ralph and helping the Commodores reach the Sweet Sixteen in the 2025‑26 season.
Although the Indiana Fever selected her in the 2026 WNBA Draft, the team never activated her on the roster. Undeterred, Pissott signed a rest‑of‑season contract with the Las Vegas Aces, a move that gave her the platform to showcase her abilities. The Aces’ head coach Becky Hammon, known for her keen eye for shooting, praised Pissott’s precision and composure after the debut, noting that the rookie’s work ethic matched her natural talent.
DeMille, who had maintained a mentorship with Pissott over the years, highlighted her competitiveness and dedication, emphasizing how she constantly seeks growth for herself and her teammates. Stephanie White, a veteran player, echoed the sentiment, stating that Pissott’s energy lifts the entire squad. The collective excitement within the locker room signals a belief that the rookie is just the beginning of a larger impact.
A Promising Future Ahead
As the season progresses, analysts and fans alike are eager to see how Pissott will adapt and evolve against seasoned opponents. Her early performance has already sparked discussions about her potential role in future playoff runs, and many view her as a catalyst for the Aces’ pursuit of another championship.