EVERETT, WASH. – Despite strong efforts by Storm guard Jordin Canada and forward Natasha Howard, the Storm fell to the Mercury, 87-84. Seattle and Phoenix traded the lead 13 times and were never separated by more than 6 points. With 3.4 seconds left, Phoenix second-round draft pick Sophie Cunningham hit the go-ahead three pointer to break the tie.
Defining Moments
Starting her ninth preseason game for the Storm, Crystal Langhorne started out hot sinking the first five points of the game for the Storm. Langhorne contributed with seven points, seven rebounds and one assist.
Making her impact on the game, Mercedes Russell kept the Storm in the game fighting hard in the paint at the end of the first quarter to bring the team within one (24-25). She also landed a huge put-back layup in the third quarter to give the Storm the lead (64-63).
Rookie guard Presley Hudson hit a game tying three (84-84) with 32.4 seconds left in the fourth quarter. It was her third make of the night, all coming from beyond the arc.
Seattle and Phoenix traded leads throughout the fourth quarter, but despite Hudson’s game-tying three pointer, Phoenix’s Sophie Cunningham scored three with 3.4 seconds left to end the game.
Storm Notes
- First of six Storm games to be played at Angel of the Wind Arena in Everett, Wash.
- As announced by the team yesterday, Head Coach Dan Hughes missed the preseason game to recover from surgery. In his absence, assistant coach Gary Kloppenburgtook his place his place.
- Seattle played without Sami Whitcomb and Alysha Clark due to commitments overseas. Sue Birddid not dress and was out resting. Jewell Loyd was absent due to prior commitment.
- This is the first-time former UCLA players Jordin Canada and Receé Caldwell have played together since 2015.
- Russell, Canada and Natasha Howard combined for a total of 43 points. Mercedes Russell and Natasha Howard both contributed 15 points each.
- The Storm forced 16 turnovers translating into 21 points for the home team.
- Storm and Mercury traded leads 13 times with neither leading by more than six.
- The Storm shot 91.7% (11-for-12) from the stripe, including 4-for-4 from Canada.
Up Next
Seattle travel to Pasadena, Calif., to take on the Los Angeles Sparks Friday at 7:30 p.m. PT, for its final preseason game. The Storm and Mercury will meet once again for the 2019 home opener, Saturday May 25 at 12:30 p.m. PT. at Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett, Wash. to start regular season play.