Storm leaning on depth in playoff chase
The Seattle Storm continue to push toward the postseason, and their bench has been the difference-maker. Seattle (19-18) has won three of its last four games, including two straight to start a five-game road trip.
In their most recent outing, the Storm crushed the Dallas Wings 95-60, setting a franchise record with 62 bench points. Rookie Dominique Malonga led the way with 22 points, becoming the first Storm player ever to post three 20+ point games off the bench in a single season.
Coach Noelle Quinn has embraced Seattle’s collective approach down the stretch. “The hot hand could be anyone,” Quinn said. “It’s going to be a team effort. Right now, we’re finding ways to be ‘one,’ starting with our defense.”
Storm Recent Form | Result |
---|---|
at Dallas | W 95-60 |
at Minnesota | W 78-73 |
vs Las Vegas | L 89-80 |
vs Indiana | W 91-85 |
Mystics reeling but still dangerous
The Washington Mystics enter Sunday on a three-game losing streak, most recently falling 91-81 to the Las Vegas Aces on Saturday.
Forward Kiki Iriafen has been the bright spot, scoring 21 points and pulling down 15 rebounds in that game. She has now been Washington’s leading rebounder for 10 straight contests. Sonia Citron, who led the team in scoring across five consecutive games earlier this month, has also been a steady contributor.
Coach Sydney Johnson made a recent lineup change, inserting veteran Alysha Clark for her leadership and versatility. “Her IQ and presence mean a lot,” Johnson said after Saturday’s loss.
Washington (16-21) has already won the season series against Seattle, taking the first two meetings in July by scores of 74-69 and 69-58. A third win would secure the Mystics’ first sweep of the Storm in years.
Mystics vs Storm 2024 | Score | Winner |
---|---|---|
July 3 | 74-69 | Mystics |
July 19 | 69-58 | Mystics |
What’s at stake
For Seattle, this game is about keeping momentum in a tight Western Conference playoff chase. With Malonga emerging and the bench contributing at a record pace, the Storm have shown they can win in multiple ways.
For Washington, a sweep of Seattle would stop the losing streak and give them a lift as they fight to stay relevant in the Eastern Conference race. Iriafen’s inside presence against Seattle’s versatile bench could be the key.
Fans following both WNBA and NBA action can also track the latest NBA scores and odds and check NBA picks for betting insights across both leagues.