Last Updated on June 17, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

The Las Vegas Aces franchise has experienced several ownership changes and relocations since entering the WNBA in 1997. Originally founded as the Utah Starzz, the organization has evolved into one of the league’s premier franchises, winning multiple championships under its current ownership.

Utah Starzz Ownership Group (1997–2002)

The franchise began play in 1997 as the Utah Starzz, one of the WNBA’s original teams. The Starzz were owned and operated by the NBA’s Utah Jazz organization during the league’s early years.

Despite featuring several talented players, the franchise struggled to gain traction and was eventually sold following the 2002 season.

San Antonio Spurs Ownership Group (2003–2017)

In 2003, the franchise was purchased by Spurs Sports & Entertainment and relocated to Texas, where it became the San Antonio Silver Stars. The team was later renamed the San Antonio Stars in 2014.

Under Spurs Sports & Entertainment, the franchise became a consistent playoff contender and reached the WNBA Finals in 2008 behind stars such as Becky Hammon and Sophia Young.

MGM Resorts International (2018–2021)

The franchise was sold and relocated to Las Vegas in 2018. MGM Resorts International became the team’s owner and rebranded the organization as the Las Vegas Aces.

The move immediately elevated the franchise’s profile, helping establish Las Vegas as a major professional basketball market.

Mark Davis (2021–Present)

In 2021, businessman Mark Davis purchased the Las Vegas Aces from MGM Resorts International. Davis, who also owns the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders, invested heavily in the organization and helped set new standards for player support and facilities within the WNBA.

Under Davis’ ownership, the Aces became the league’s dominant team, winning back-to-back WNBA championships in 2022 and 2023. The franchise also became the first WNBA team to repeat as champions since the early 2000s.

Las Vegas Aces Owners at a Glance

  • Utah Jazz Ownership Group (1997–2002)
  • Spurs Sports & Entertainment (2003–2017)
  • MGM Resorts International (2018–2021)
  • Mark Davis (2021–Present)

The Aces’ ownership history reflects the franchise’s journey from Utah to San Antonio and ultimately Las Vegas. Under Mark Davis, the organization has emerged as one of the WNBA’s flagship franchises and a model for future growth across the league.