In an exciting showdown on Friday night, the Seattle Storm overcame the Phoenix Mercury with a final score of 77-70, highlighted by standout performances from Skylar Diggins and Nneka Ogwumike. Diggins shone with 24 points and a career-high 14 assists, tying the franchise record set by Sue Bird.
Ogwumike also matched Diggins’ scoring output, contributing another 24 points for the Storm, who improved their record to 2-1 while avenging a previous defeat to the Mercury. Gabby Williams supported the offense with 11 points during Seattle’s home opener.
On the Mercury’s side, Alyssa Thomas recorded a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds, making history by surpassing Rebekkah Brunson to achieve the 10th spot on the WNBA’s all-time double-double list with her 82nd. Satou Sabally scored 15 points, and rookie Monique Akoa Makani showcased her skills with a career-high 14 points, including a key layup and two consecutive three-pointers to tie the game at 70 earlier in the fourth quarter.
However, the Mercury struggled to convert in the final moments, experiencing a scoring drought where they missed their last six shots. Diggins’ late-game jumper put Seattle in the lead, followed by crucial layups from Ogwumike, solidifying the Storm’s victory as they clinched a three-possession lead with 28 seconds left.
The game was tightly contested, featuring seven ties and eight lead changes, with both teams managing to build leads of no more than seven points. The Mercury will look to rebound as they host the Washington Mystics on Sunday.
This thrilling match not only showcased the prowess of both teams but also highlighted the potential for stronger performances in upcoming games, reminding fans of the unpredictability and excitement of the WNBA season.