Storm Snap Aces’ 17-Game Winning Streak, Set Up Deciding Game 3

The Seattle Storm ended the Las Vegas Aces’ remarkable winning streak with an impressive comeback, winning Game 2 of their first-round playoff series 86-83. The victory not only halted the Aces’ 17-game winning streak, which dated back to August 2, but also set the stage for a decisive Game 3, scheduled for Thursday in Las Vegas.

Trailing by 14 points in the second half, the Storm demonstrated resilience and strategic execution. Guard Skylar Diggins played a pivotal role, scoring crucial points down the stretch. “This team hasn’t been beaten in a long time,” Diggins remarked. “We felt like we could because we’ve had success versus them before this year.” She emphasized the importance of rebounding and maintaining pressure on the Aces’ key players.

With less than 30 seconds remaining and the Storm leading by one point, Diggins executed a crucial play. Utilizing a screen from teammate Nneka Ogwumike, she isolated Aces defender Jackie Young, driving to her left and pulling up just inside the free throw line to extend Seattle’s lead to three points.

Despite a last-minute attempt by former Storm guard Jewell Loyd for a tying three-pointer, the shot missed, allowing Seattle to secure the win. This marked the first loss for Las Vegas since their previous defeat to the Minnesota Lynx, which started their historic winning streak.

The Aces’ head coach, Becky Hammon, expressed disappointment at the missed opportunity to close out the series in a sweep. “We missed nine free throws,” she noted. “It’s a shame. I feel like we let that one go. And our poor, soft defense down the stretch. Soft.”

Seattle’s comeback was fueled by a renewed focus on defense, particularly against three-time MVP A’ja Wilson. Although she recorded a double-double with 21 points and 13 rebounds, Wilson was scoreless in the final seven minutes of the game. Storm rookie Dominique Malonga effectively matched up against Wilson, limiting her opportunities and contributing significantly to Seattle’s defensive strategy.

Storm coach Noelle Quinn praised Malonga’s performance. “With a player as great as A’ja, you just want to make it as difficult as possible,” she stated. Malonga’s impact was felt throughout the game, as she not only contributed defensively but also scored a critical three-point play in the final minute, showcasing her poise under pressure.

Seattle’s victory can be attributed to their experience in tight games earlier in the season, which helped them maintain composure during crucial moments. Ogwumike noted, “We are not unfamiliar with playing from behind, especially in the second.” This experience proved beneficial, as the Storm executed their game plan effectively against the Aces.

As the teams prepare for the decisive Game 3, the stakes are high. The Aces will look to reclaim their momentum at home, while the Storm aim to continue their winning ways and advance to the next round of the playoffs. The matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, highlighting the intensity and competitiveness of the postseason.