The Las Vegas Aces solidified their position as a WNBA powerhouse with a decisive victory over the Seattle Storm, snapping the Storm’s four-game winning streak in the process. This matchup, played on September 17th, 2024, was a crucial late-season encounter with playoff implications for both teams.
The Aces, entering the game on a three-game winning streak and having won eight of their last ten, faced a Storm team that had also found its rhythm with four consecutive victories. Despite the absence of key players Jewell Loyd and Ezi Magbegor due to injuries, the Storm put up a valiant fight, showcasing the depth and resilience of their squad.
A Thrilling Back-and-Forth Battle:
The Aces dominated the first quarter, suggesting a potential blowout. However, the Storm rallied before halftime, demonstrating their refusal to back down. A dramatic buzzer-beater by Kelsey Plum at the end of the second quarter gave the Aces an eight-point cushion heading into the third.
The second half continued to be a captivating contest, with the Storm even managing to take the lead with eight minutes left in the game. However, the Aces’ championship pedigree shone through as they unleashed a 21-7 run to close out the game, securing an 85-72 victory.
Standout Performances:
A’ja Wilson led the Aces with 21 points, seven rebounds, and two assists, showcasing her all-around dominance. Kelsey Plum matched Wilson’s scoring output with 21 points of her own, including an impressive 5-for-7 from beyond the arc. Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray also made significant contributions, with Young adding 16 points and six assists, and Gray chipping in with 13 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Tiffany Hayes provided a spark off the bench with 10 points and two steals.
For the Storm, Nneka Ogwumike delivered a team-high 19 points and six rebounds. Sue Bird orchestrated the offense effectively, nearly achieving a double-double with 17 points and nine assists, along with three steals. Gabby Williams also impressed with 14 points, five rebounds, five assists, and two steals.
Playoff Implications:
The Aces’ victory holds significant implications for the playoff picture. With one regular-season game remaining against the Dallas Wings, the Aces are favored to win and secure a playoff berth. However, they are also hoping for a Connecticut Sun loss to the Chicago Sky in order to clinch the coveted No. 3 seed.
The Storm, having already secured their playoff spot as the fifth seed, face the Phoenix Mercury in their season finale. Given the injuries to Loyd and Magbegor, the Storm might opt to rest their key players in this game, prioritizing their health for the playoffs.
A Glimpse into the Future:
This Aces-Storm matchup served as a preview of the high-stakes battles that await in the WNBA playoffs. The Aces, the reigning champions, demonstrated their championship mettle and their ability to close out games against formidable opponents. The Storm, despite facing adversity with injuries, proved their resilience and their ability to compete with the league’s best.
As the WNBA season reaches its climax, the Aces and the Storm are poised to make deep playoff runs. Their recent encounter highlighted the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in the quest for the WNBA championship. The intensity, skill, and determination displayed by both teams suggest that the playoffs will be a thrilling spectacle for basketball fans.
