Full Breakdown
Sparks Defeat Storm 90-74 at Climate Pledge Arena
9/1/2026, 6:03:43 AM
Background & Context
The Los Angeles Sparks entered the matchup with a 15-25 record, having won three of their last four games. The Seattle Storm, at 8-32, were the league’s last-place team and had struggled against Western Conference opponents all season, posting a 1-18 record with their only win—a 82-64 victory over the Sparks—occurring on July 6. The game also marked a ceremonial moment for veteran forward Nneka Ogwumike, who announced that the 2024-25 season will be her final year and was honored before tip-off for her two seasons previously spent in Seattle.
Game Statistics
- Final Score: Sparks 90, Storm 74.
- Scoring Leaders: Ogwumike recorded a double-double with 23 points and 12 rebounds; Rae Burrell added 22 points; Cameron Brink contributed 11 points. For Seattle, rookie Flau’jae Johnson led with 19 points, while Dominique Malonga posted 17 points and a career-high-tying 15 rebounds.
- Shooting Efficiency: Field Level Media reported the Sparks made 43.8 % of their field-goal attempts (32-of-73) and hit 12-of-31 from three-point range. Seattle shot 34.1 % overall (28-of-82) and was 4-of-22 from beyond the arc.
- Momentum Shifts: Los Angeles opened with the first 13 points and built a 25-11 lead after one quarter. An 11-0 run in the second quarter, highlighted by a layup from Dearica Hamby, extended the lead to 39-20 at halftime. Seattle briefly narrowed the gap to 70-52 entering the fourth quarter, but a decisive 9-0 run—featuring back-to-back three-pointers from Brink and Ogwumike— sealed the victory.
Official Statements & Responses
Ahead of the game, the Sparks announced Ogwumike’s retirement plans, noting her intention to conclude her career after the season. During the pregame ceremony, league officials recognized her contributions to both Los Angeles and Seattle, emphasizing her impact on the sport. Post-game, Sparks personnel highlighted the team’s balanced attack and defensive pressure that limited Seattle to just 32 % shooting in the first half. Seattle’s coaching staff acknowledged the Storm’s shooting woes and the need to improve ball security, referencing the four turnovers committed early in the contest.
What’s Next
Following the FIBA World Cup break, the Sparks are scheduled to face the Dallas Wings on September 17. The Storm will also return on September 17, hosting the Las Vegas Aces. Both teams will look to build on their respective performances as the regular season draws toward its conclusion.
