The Las Vegas Aces have sent shockwaves through the WNBA by waiving Chennedy Carter, a dynamic guard who was making a strong case for Sixth Player of the Year. The defending champions announced the move on Tuesday, replacing Carter with former Indiana Fever guard Justine Pissott. The decision has left fans and analysts alike scratching their heads, especially given Carter's impressive production off the bench this season.
At 27, Carter was averaging 12.2 points in just 16.9 minutes per game, shooting a blistering 60 percent from the field. Her efficiency and scoring punch made her a key contributor for a team eyeing another championship. Yet, despite her on-court success, the Aces decided to part ways, raising questions about what might be happening behind the scenes.
Social media erupted with reactions from stunned fans. "I really need answers for Chennedy Carter getting waived," one fan posted. Another asked, "Somebody explain to me what we are doing." The confusion was widespread, with many struggling to understand how a player of Carter's caliber could be let go. "I don’t understand why she barely made a roster and then is now getting waived when she’s been one of the most impactful bench players," a third fan commented. "Must be a horrible locker room teammate or something."
The speculation about Carter's fit in the locker room isn't new. This latest setback extends a pattern of short stints for the former No. 4 pick. The Atlanta Dream suspended her in 2021 for conduct detrimental to the team, and the Los Angeles Sparks waived her the following year after a disciplinary suspension. She sat out the 2023 season before resurfacing with the Chicago Sky in 2024, where she averaged a career-high 17.5 points per game. But that tenure didn't last, and she didn't play in the WNBA last year before signing with the Aces in April.
Percy Allen, a longtime WNBA observer, weighed in on the situation: "I’m rooting for Chennedy Carter, who is one of the most exciting players in the league. But if she couldn’t make it work with Aces and Becky Hammon, then I can’t think of many places in WNBA that will take a chance on her." The comment underscores the gravity of this move, as Hammon is widely respected for her ability to manage personalities and build championship culture.
For the Aces, the decision carries risk. Carter had been a bright spot in a season that has seen its share of turbulence. The team has already faced questions about chemistry issues involving A'ja Wilson and Carter, and this move could further strain the locker room dynamics. Some fans fear it might derail the Aces' title aspirations. "If the Aces are willing to possibly blow their title chances she must be the worst teammate ever," one fan speculated.
Carter's time in Las Vegas began with promise. She tallied at least 20 points four times in May, showcasing the explosive scoring that made her a fan favorite. But her production dipped recently, and she went scoreless in Sunday's 84-68 loss to the Fever. That game might have been the final straw, but for many, the overall body of work suggested a player worth keeping.
The timing of the move is particularly puzzling given the season is well underway and the Aces are in the thick of a playoff race. With Carter gone, the team will need other players to step up. Meanwhile, Carter's future in the league remains uncertain. Her talent is undeniable, but her ability to stick with a team is now a major question mark.
As the WNBA community processes this news, one thing is clear: the Aces have made a bold statement, and the fallout could shape the rest of their season. Whether this was a necessary step for team harmony or a costly misstep will be decided on the court.
