Full Breakdown
Seattle Storm Clinch Final WNBA Playoff Spot with Dramatic Win Over Golden State Valkyries
9/10/2025, 12:56:53 PM
Seattle Storm's Path to the Playoffs
The Seattle Storm secured the eighth and final playoff berth in the 2025 WNBA postseason with a narrow 74-73 victory over the Golden State Valkyries on September 9, 2025, at Climate Pledge Arena. The Storm entered the game needing a win to clinch their playoff spot, as the Los Angeles Sparks were also vying for the last position. The Sparks defeated the Phoenix Mercury, but Seattle's victory eliminated them from contention, marking the fifth consecutive year the Sparks missed the playoffs.
Game Highlights and Key Performers
The game was characterized by intense back-and-forth action, particularly in the final minutes. Erica Wheeler emerged as the standout performer for Seattle, scoring a team-high 17 points, including the game-winning jumper with 19.2 seconds remaining. Nneka Ogwumike contributed significantly with 16 points and eight rebounds, while Brittney Sykes added 14 points. For the Valkyries, Janelle Salaün led all scorers with 22 points, supported by Temi Fágbénlé and Veronica Burton, who each scored 14 points.
The Storm trailed 61-53 entering the fourth quarter but mounted a comeback, outscoring the Valkyries 21-12 in the final frame. After Salaün's three-pointer gave Golden State a brief lead, Wheeler's clutch shot sealed the win for Seattle. The Valkyries had a chance to reclaim the lead but missed two critical shots in the closing seconds.
Implications for the Playoffs
With this victory, the Storm not only clinched a playoff spot but also positioned themselves for a first-round matchup against the top-seeded Minnesota Lynx. The Valkyries, despite the loss, secured their place in the playoffs as well, marking a historic achievement as the first expansion team to reach the postseason in their inaugural season.
Official Statements & Responses
Seattle head coach Noelle Quinn expressed pride in her team's resilience, stating, "To be able to say that we're in... a lot of gratitude and a lot of pride in that." Wheeler emphasized the team's collective effort, saying, "It's not about my last shot, it's a team effort and we just did what we needed to do to get this win."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the victory, some analysts noted the Storm's inconsistency throughout the season, particularly their struggles at home, where they had a disappointing record. Critics pointed out that the Storm's performance in the second half of the season, including a six-game losing streak, raised concerns about their readiness for the playoffs.
What's Next
The WNBA playoffs are set to begin on September 14, 2025, with the Storm facing the Lynx in the first round. The Valkyries will also prepare for their playoff matchup, aiming to build on their inaugural season's success.
Verbatim Quotes
- “To say we did it, a lot of gratitude and a lot of pride in that.” — Noelle Quinn, Head Coach, Seattle Storm
- “Coach said ’empty the tank,’ and that’s what we did. We emptied the tank and played until the last minute. It’s not about my last shot, it’s a team effort and we just did what we needed to do to get this win.” — Erica Wheeler, Guard, Seattle Storm
- “What happened tonight, that's greatness,” — Nneka Ogwumike, Forward, Seattle Storm
The Seattle Storm's dramatic win not only secured their playoff berth but also set the stage for an exciting postseason as they aim for their fifth WNBA championship.
