NaLyssa Smith was missing from the Las Vegas Aces' active roster for Tuesday night's game against the Portland Fire due to a checkup, but fans are wary of the timeline of such a circumstance.

This confusion comes on the heels of off-court drama surrounding the Aces player, when Chicago Sky guard DiJonai Carrington publicly accused Smith of infidelity.

Smith herself responded to the claim, saying, "Like what? That don't even make sense. And to bring it to the internet a year later is crazy. Just for fun? That's ridiculous, especially when you're in a happy, healthy relationship." 

But Smith's older brother, Rodney Smith II, put an end to all speculation as he uploaded an image on X of the Aces player in the hospital.  "Praying for your recovery sis🫶🏾 you'll bounce back quick 🙌🏾," he wrote.

Carrington made the allegations in a social media post Sunday morning following the conclusion of WNBA All-Star Weekend in Chicago.

In the post, Carrington accused Smith of being unfaithful in their relationship while naming players Deja Kelly and Aliyah Nye. As of Tuesday night, neither of the three players has issued any public statements regarding this matter.

But without any proof, it would be unfair to conclude that Smith missed out on the active roster because of these allegations.

What is more surprising is that prior to the All-Star break, Smith had not missed a single game for the Aces, which just goes to show her importance to the team.

NaLyssa Smith was Key for the Aces in the First Half of the Season

While the defending champions managed to beat the 11-17 Fire, Smith's absence left the Aces without a productive frontcourt.

The former No. 2 overall WNBA Draft pick is averaging 11.8 points, 6.0 rebounds and 0.7 blocks per game this season. She has also shot an impressive 66.7 percent from the field, giving Las Vegas an efficient scoring option around the basket.

Coming from teams like the Indiana Fever and Dallas Wings, Smith joined the Aces and established herself as an important piece for one of the Western Conference's top contenders.

While the allegations from Carrington will remain, Smith's unexplained absence and availability for future games remain unclear. So, first things first, the Aces will hope for their elite forward's return as soon as possible.

Read more at Her Sports Nation!

Written by

Joy Bassy

Edited by

Joy Bassy