Full Breakdown
Seattle Storm Defeat Washington Mystics 97-85 in High-Scoring Showdown
5/25/2026, 1:09:14 PM
Game Overview and Key Performances
Seattle rallied from an 18-11 early deficit to defeat Washington 97-85 at Climate Pledge Arena. Natisha Hiedeman tied her career high with 24 points on 7-of-12 shooting, including four threes and perfect free throws. Flau’jae Johnson added 17 points, Awa Fam debuted with 10 points, and Stefanie Dolson scored 16 on flawless shooting. Seattle set a season high with 13 three-pointers (28 attempts) and converted 32 of 34 free throws (94%). Washington shot 20% from three (4-of-20) and 85% from the line (35-of-41).
Background and Context
Seattle entered the game near the bottom of the league in scoring (81.7 PPG) and seeking its first consecutive win after a 2-4 start. The previous night the Storm limited the Connecticut Sun to 59 points, underscoring a defensive identity that contrasted with the offensive outburst versus Washington.
Player Spotlights and Statistics
Hiedeman’s 24 points matched her career best and she contributed to the team’s total of 20 assists. Johnson’s 17 points came with seven rebounds and five assists. Rookie Awa Fam, the No. 3 overall pick, contributed 10 points and displayed pick-and-roll ability. The Storm shot 44.1% from the field and 94% from the line.
Official Statements and Responses
Coach Sonia Raman praised Hiedeman’s aggressiveness and spot-finding. Hiedeman highlighted the team’s ball movement and the 20 assists. Fam expressed confidence in her readiness. The organization’s statement commended Hiedeman’s winning mentality and basketball IQ.
Criticism, Injuries, and Depth Concerns
The Storm remain short-handed; leading scorer Dominique Malonga is out with a concussion and forward Ezi Magbegor is sidelined by a foot injury. Raman noted the need to develop Fam and address the loss of key post players.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
Early May coverage said Fam had not yet debuted, while post-game reports confirm her participation and scoring. The precise debut timeline is inconsistently recorded.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I just shook her, so I was saying goodbye?” — Natisha Hiedeman, Seattle Storm guard
- “She did a really good job of finding her spots,” — Sonia Raman, Seattle Storm head coach
- “It was amazing. It was a dream come true. It was a very good game, so I feel very good.” — Awa Fam, Seattle Storm rookie center
- “Natisha brings a winning mentality and a strong character that elevates everyone around her. Her shooting touch and basketball IQ make her a valuable complement in our backcourt rotation.” — Seattle Storm official statement
What’s Next
The Storm will target consecutive wins while monitoring the health of Malonga and Magbegor and integrating Fam into the rotation. Sustained offensive cohesion will be essential for improving the team’s Western Conference position.
