Storm Shatter Aces’ 17-Game Winning Streak in Thrilling Game 2

The Seattle Storm ended the Las Vegas Aces‘ remarkable 17-game winning streak, securing an 86-83 victory in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series. This match, held on the evening of August 22, 2023, marked the Storm’s first win against the Aces since August 2, when Las Vegas suffered a stunning loss to the Minnesota Lynx by 53 points. As a result, the series is set to go to a decisive Game 3 on Thursday in Las Vegas.

Despite trailing by 14 points in the second half, the Storm mounted a comeback, showcasing resilience and tactical prowess. Skylar Diggins, a key player for Seattle, emphasized their confidence, stating, “We felt like we could because we’ve had success versus them before this year.” The Storm’s ability to dominate the rebounding battle was pivotal, allowing them to regain control and execute their game plan effectively.

In the closing moments, with Seattle holding a slim one-point lead, Diggins made a crucial play. Using the threat of a screen from teammate Nneka Ogwumike, she drove past defender Jackie Young and hit a jumper just inside the free-throw line, extending Seattle’s lead to three points. Reflecting on the moment, Diggins acknowledged the importance of teamwork, stating, “I thought they were going to foul, so I just let Nneka keep holding the ball.”

The Aces had a chance to tie the game in the final seconds, but a three-point attempt by former Storm guard Jewell Loyd fell short, solidifying Seattle’s victory. This defeat marks the first loss for the Aces since their historic streak began, which had propelled them to a season record of 30-14, earning them the No. 2 seed in the playoffs.

Coaching Perspectives and Tactical Adjustments

Aces coach Becky Hammon expressed disappointment at missing the opportunity to sweep the series. “We missed nine free throws,” she noted, highlighting areas for improvement. “It’s a shame. I feel like we let that one go.” Hammon pointed to turnovers and defensive lapses as critical factors in the loss, stating, “Our poor, soft defense down the stretch. Soft.”

Despite a stronger start for the Storm compared to their Game 1 performance, the Aces managed to establish a significant lead during the third quarter. However, the Storm’s defense, particularly against the Aces’ three-time MVP A’ja Wilson, proved essential in turning the tide. Wilson, who recorded 21 points and 13 rebounds, was held scoreless in the final seven minutes of the game, largely due to the defensive efforts of rookie Dominique Malonga.

Malonga, who has now achieved back-to-back double-doubles, made history as the first teenager to accomplish this feat in either the NBA or WNBA playoffs. Her impactful play included a crucial three-point play in the final minute that gave Seattle the lead. “I just saw Dom streaking, so I threw it up to the basket,” Diggins recounted, praising her teammate’s composure under pressure.

Looking Ahead to Game 3

As the series shifts to Game 3, the Aces will be looking to rebound in front of their home crowd. Hammon emphasized the need for strategic adjustments to support Wilson better, stating, “We’ve got to do a better job of getting [Malonga] in movement instead of just those post isos. She’s long, she’s athletic. We’ve got to move her a little bit more.”

Both teams have demonstrated their strengths and vulnerabilities in this series, setting the stage for a compelling showdown. The Storm’s recent experiences, having faced multiple close losses earlier in the season, may provide them with the composure needed for the upcoming challenge. Ogwumike noted, “We are not unfamiliar with tight games. We took every possession as seriously as we could.”

With the stakes higher than ever, fans can expect an exhilarating Game 3 as both teams vie for a place in the next round of the playoffs. The resilience of the Storm against the formidable Aces is a testament to the competitive spirit of the league, promising an exciting conclusion to this first-round matchup.