HENDERSON, Nev. — In their quest to claim a third consecutive WNBA title while also addressing a shorthanded lineup, the Las Vegas Aces brought former All-Star and career double-digit scorer Tiffany Hayes out of retirement on Friday.

Hayes started all 40 games for the Connecticut Sun last season, averaging 12.1 points per game on a team that lost in the playoff semifinals to the New York Liberty. She scored 15 points in the Game 4 elimination defeat. Although she retired after the season, Hayes found the opportunity to join the loaded Aces lineup too difficult to pass up.

“Joining the Aces will be very exciting for me,” Hayes said in a statement. “I’m just grateful that they are willing to work with me as I am diving headfirst into a new era in my life. It will be nice to experience the West Coast and this organization as I join them on the road to another winning season. I have no doubts that there is something special brewing, and I’m just another great ingredient being added to the mix.”

The Las Vegas Aces, currently focused on maintaining their championship momentum, are looking to integrate Hayes effectively into their lineup. How the Aces will use the 5-foot-10 Hayes remains to be seen. Jackie Young has been playing out of position at point guard due to the continued absence of Chelsea Gray, who injured her left foot in last season’s WNBA Finals. However, Young has excelled so far this season at that position, entering Friday’s game at Atlanta averaging 21.8 points, 8.2 assists, and 5.4 rebounds.

Hayes played her first 10 seasons for the Atlanta Dream and was an All-Star in 2017 and a first-team all-league selection in 2018. She has averaged 13.6 points per game over her career. Her addition to the Aces is seen as a strategic move to bolster the team's depth and experience.

“Tiffany is a fiery competitor with a winner’s mentality,” Aces general manager Natalie Williams said in a statement. “A savvy veteran who will be a great addition to our team.” This endorsement highlights Hayes' potential impact on the team’s performance and her alignment with the Aces' competitive spirit.

The roster spot became open after the Aces waived rookie point guard Dyaisha Fair on Sunday, leaving only Kate Martin from this year’s draft class on the current roster. Martin has been performing well, scoring 21 points over the past two games and making 5 of 10 three-pointers. The addition of Hayes provides the Aces with more options and flexibility as they navigate the season.

Las Vegas also has Elizabeth Kitley, who is sitting out this year after tearing her ACL late in the season at Virginia Tech. Kitley's absence adds to the Aces' challenges in maintaining a fully robust lineup, making Hayes' return even more significant.

The decision to bring Hayes out of retirement reflects the Aces' proactive approach to addressing their roster needs and ensuring they remain strong contenders for the WNBA title. As the team continues its pursuit of a third consecutive championship, the integration of experienced players like Hayes will be crucial in maintaining their competitive edge and achieving their goals.

Hayes’ experience and scoring ability are expected to provide an immediate boost to the Aces, especially in critical moments of the season. Her veteran presence will also be valuable in mentoring younger players and helping to maintain the team’s high-performance standards. The Aces’ strategic addition of Hayes highlights their commitment to sustaining a championship-caliber team and solidifying their dominance in the league.

Moreover, the Aces' roster adjustments underscore their adaptability and forward-thinking approach. By bringing in a seasoned player like Hayes, the team not only addresses immediate lineup gaps but also reinforces their long-term strategy for success. Hayes’ return is a testament to the organization’s appeal and its ability to attract top talent, even from retirement. This move demonstrates the Aces’ dedication to excellence and their relentless pursuit of victory in the WNBA.