Los Angeles, CA – The Seattle Storm started the game showing that this was a business trip defeat the Los Angeles Sparks 98-67.
The Sparks did have a bright spot with second year player Rickea Jackson taking charge on offense 17 points along with 8/8 from the free throw line. Driving to the basket and making the defense collapse on her.
“We miss her (KP), Odyssey and Allemand, all our three guards.”, said Lynn Roberts Sparks coach, “The point guard spot is so big.”
Nneka Ogwumike came back to Crypto.com Arena showing why she still is walking bucket with 26 points and 5 rebounds to lead the Storm.
With three minutes left in the game the Sparks substituted their starters out the game accepting the defeat.
Jackson did get little support tonight from Azura Stevens who scored 16 points & 10 rebounds for another double-double.
“We have enough here to get it done,” said Stevens, “I have to start focusing on my defense first.”
The Seattle bench was a strong force for this 31-point victory. Alysha Clark dropped 14 points from the bench.
The offense kept the ball moving for Seattle all night with 29 assists as a team. This allowed their front court to score 15 points apiece from Skylar Diggins and Erica Wheeler.
Roberts in the postgame press conference pointed out that there were points in this game that they were playing three hardship players at the same time. She didn’t want it to be an excuse just their current reality.
“I’m more concerned about our defense.” said Roberts.
Games like this should do one or two things push them to excel or drive them to give up. From listening to the coach and seeing the energy on the court late in the game this team is going to continue to fight.
The Sparks will have few days to practice and regroup before traveling to Minnesota to face the Lynx at 5pm on NBA TV.
