Seattle Storm stop Elena Delle Donne and the Mystics 85-78
Seattle improved to 18-7 after defeating the Washington Mystics.
(Washington D.C.) - The Storm spoiled Elena Delle Donne’s homecoming as Seattle defeated the Washington Mystics in Delle Donne’s 2021 season debut by a final score of 85-78.
While the Storm normally rely on their Big 3 it was actually their three “bigs” that helped them come away with the victory on Sunday. Breanna Stewart, Mercedes Russell, and Ezi Magbegor were all critical pieces in Seattle’s win. They combined for 48 points, 20 rebounds, and nine blocked shots against the Mystics.
Stewart led the way with 20 points, 12 rebounds, and five blocks. Russell contributed 14 points and eight rebounds. And Magbegor added 14 points on 7-8 (88%) FG shooting and three blocked shots off the bench in 16 minutes. Katie Lou Samuelson was the fourth player in double figures for Seattle scoring 10 points and five rebounds.
I spoke with Magbegor after the game about her improved ability to finish near the rim this season and what she attributes that to.
“I know that to make it in this league I did have to work on putting on more strength so that was something I worked on an offseason and continue to work during the season as well. But yeah, I think in the second year you always have a bit more confidence. Last year was my rookie year and I think just knowing the team, knowing the system, knowing that my teammates and coaches have faith in me has definitely helped and I feel a little bit more comfortable this season.” Magbegor said.
Magbegor was part of a bench unit that played exceptionally well in this game. The Storm’s bench outscored the Mystics’ 25-12. Seattle’s reserve players all played important minutes and were crucial to Seattle turning the tides of the game during the end of the first quarter and the early minutes of the second.
“Our starters do a great job day in and day out of just setting the pace of the game and setting the tone. When we can help them and come in and bring the energy, it not only gives them a break but it gives us a chance to show the depth on our team as well. I think that's what we were able to do today. They [the Mystics] got to run on us but I think it's a long game and that's kind of what we play, so just knowing the game's not over in the first quarter and just being able to bring that spark off the bench is what we were able to do.” Magbegor continued.
Mercedes Russell also complimented Seattle’s reserves during the post-game press conference.
“It's important for us, as a team, just hitting this end of the stretch of the season to win all games, but especially on the road. The environment is tough, it's always tough to win on the road so today was a huge game for us. And I think the bench stepped up tremendously. They came in and they played hard. They played really good minutes for us, and it's going to be games like that where different people have to step up and just use the opportunity.”
“I think our chemistry has been very well. The past couple games our bench was so important for us just bringing in extra energy, extra tenacity on the defensive end. They know when they come in, they just got to bring that energy, that effort, and that passion. And they did a very good job of that tonight.” Russell continued.
Seattle’s starting guards did not have a great game. Neither Jewell Loyd nor Sue Bird had their shooter’s touch going as they combined for 5-20 (25%) from the floor including 2-11 (18%) from beyond the arc. Both players finished the game with eight points and four rebounds. It was the first game since the Olympic break where Jewell Loyd didn’t score at least 16 points.
Coach Noelle Quinn talked to the media after the game about other players stepping up when the Big 3 weren’t shooting the ball well.
“You never know when your opportunities will come. When opportunity meets preparation we all know what happens. And that's just the name of the game when you're in this league. Everybody on every team in this league is a good basketball player and was the star, at some point in their life. Today our big three weren't as efficient offensively but you know we have some great contributions in every step. Everyone else stepped up in those ways and that is the name of the game at this level: always remain steady, always remain focused and engaged and sharp, because when your time comes you want to execute and you want to be ready for that opportunity.” Quinn said.
Sunday’s game sparked the return of two-time WNBA MVP Elena Delle Donne who showed both positive signs and “ring rust” in the losing effort. EDD finished the game with 16 points on 5-11 FG shooting and three rebounds. Tina Charles led the Washington Mystics with 20 points and nine rebounds. But Seattle’s defense improved considerably from the first time they faced Washington when Charles lit them up for 34 points. I spoke to Mercedes Russell after the game on the keys to their defensive improvement.
“That was huge for us, just keeping her in traffic, keeping a lot of bodies around there so she's not getting open and easy looks. And then, just keeping her in congestion was really the whole game plan, and I think we did a good job of that. We did a good job of running them to the three-point line, making them drive in, contesting every shot, so we were pretty solid on the defensive end.” Russell stated.
“Discipline was a big thing. At the start of the first half of the season I needed to get better at playing without fouling, especially against bigs like Tina, and Delle Donne as well. So, just being able to not foul as much helps me and gives me a bit more time on the court and gives me that rhythm.” Magbegor on the team’s defense.
Delle Donne and Charles were part of four starters that scored in double figures for Washington. Natasha Cloud had a near double-double with 11 points and nine assists. And Ariel Atkins added 10 more. Myisha Hines-Allen had a poor shooting game (2-12 FG) but was one point away from a double-double with nine points and 17 rebounds! The 17 rebounds were a game-high for either team.
Stewart spoke on the challenge of defending Delle Donne.
“Anytime I'm matched up with Elena it's obviously going to be tough, just having a lot of respect for her game and knowing what she can do. And I think our main thing was knowing she hasn’t played the game in a long time, and it's not easy to just jump right back into that. Still, she had 16 points. I think we just tried to make it difficult for her, but she's Elena and she showed that no matter if she didn't play for two years, she came out and made it tough for us.” Stewart stated.
Seattle did not shoot the ball particularly well 33-73 FG (45%) and shot uncharacteristically poorly from the three-point line, 6-24 (25%). Seattle’s defense was strong in this game limiting the Washington Mystics to just 28-76 (37%) field goal shooting overall and 32% (7-22) overall.
Both teams were nearly identical in rebounding (Seattle 42-41 edge), assists (22-20 Washington), and free throw attempts (both had 16). But Seattle’s defensive numbers were considerably better holding a 13-7 advantage in steals and an impressive 11-1 edge in blocked shots.
Game Breakdown
Seattle was ice cold to start the game missing eight of their first nine shots. This allowed the Mystics to take an early 11-2 lead in the game with all five starters for DC each scoring a basket. A three by Ariel Atkins gave Washington their largest lead of the game at 16-4 halfway through the first quarter.
The Storm were able to rally late in the quarter with a 14-5 run the rest of the way. Washington led 21-18 after one. Mercedes Russell led Seattle with eight points. Russell was a huge reason the Storm were able to keep the game close in the first quarter. Three different Mystics players scored five points each in the first period.
Seattle’s bench played very well in this game which helped Seattle take the lead early in the 2nd quarter. Jordin, Ezi, Epiphanny, and Stephanie all made great plays on both ends of the court. Ezi had multiple blocks, Talbot had a nice steal, Jordin was getting deflections, and also had a beautiful dime to Magbegor just past the outstretched arms of the Mystics’ defender.
Katie Lou Samuelson buried a three to give Seattle their first lead of the game 25-23. From there, the Storm finished the quarter with an 18-10 run. Samuelson was the star of the 2nd quarter scoring all eight of her first-half points. Jewell Loyd buried a corner jumper. Stewart added five more including a triple that pushed the Storm’s lead to eight 39-31.
The Storm shot 59% (10-17) from the floor in the second period while holding the Mystics to just 22% (4-18).
The Mystics actually outscored Seattle in more quarters but the second period was so dominant by the Storm that it swayed the outcome of the game. Seattle outpaced DC 25-12 in that quarter. Seattle led 43-33 at the break.
Coach Noelle Quinn talked about the big differences after the slow first quarter start.
“Offensively, they were switching. I think the biggest thing is that they're being aggressive. So, the mindset was to get into the paint and not settle. We had some really good strong drives and were able to get to the lines. They are very aggressive on the ball, but I think that we are able to kind of get the ball swinging from side to side and make better decisions and choices with attacking them. Really seeking contact for a foul but seeking to kind of finish through the contact. And then, defensively, just tightened up a little bit more, we were switching as well and understanding that we just had to communicate and be in our spots or train spots a little bit quicker. And cover each other's backs on that sense.” Quinn said.
Coach Mike Thibault lit a fire under the Mystics’ players because they came out with ferocity. The third quarter was reminiscent of the first period where Seattle couldn’t buy a basket. Seattle’s three-point shooting was especially poor. It wasn’t just Seattle’s poor shooting, Washington was playing with significantly more energy.
Washington cut the Storm’s lead to just two at 49-47 as part of a 14-6 run to begin the third quarter. Seattle’s bench came back in and continued to play well. Alongside Breanna Stewart, the Storm were able to extend their lead back to 10 points by the end of the quarter. Stewart scored 11 points in the third period.
The Storm took a 14-point lead to begin the fourth quarter with back-to-back baskets. But from there the Washington Mystics would go on a 13-2 run. Washington connected on multiple threes during that span by Elena Delle Donne and Leilani Mitchell. Seattle was forced to call a timeout leading by three 70-67.
Washington continued to put pressure on Seattle ultimately regaining the lead on a Myisha Hines-Allen three-pointer with 3:32 left in the game. It was the Mystics’ first lead since the early minutes of the second quarter.
Seattle kept their composure and Mercedes Russell was able to draw a foul on the very next possession. She sank both free throws to put the Storm on top for good. Stephanie Talbot was able to steal the ball away from Hines-Allen that led to a fast break where she found Sue Bird who drained a critical three to put Seattle up 78-74.
They forced Washington into another turnover and Breanna Stewart was able to score in the low post after grabbing an offensive rebound. She was able to muscle it back up and in.
Hines-Allen was able to convert a layup but Loyd was able to draw another foul and converted both free throws to extend Seattle’s lead back up to six. Natasha Cloud missed a three, then Seattle missed but Mercedes Russell tracked down the offensive rebound. Loyd found Stephanie Talbot in the corner and Talbot buried a three which sealed the victory for Seattle. Talbot’s three put the Storm up nine 85-76 with 1:18 left to play.
After trailing 74-73, the Storm finished the final three and a half minutes of the game on a 12-4 run. Ultimately, winning the game 85-78.
Coach Quinn discussed the importance of closing out games.
“It is very important, especially when you're on the road. There are other things that contribute to the momentum swings, whether it's the crowd, etc. When you're able to find ways to win on the road, either by one or by 30, a win is a win. We got a couple of steals on the stretch because we're very aggressive. As this team continues to grow and learn how to move with one another in their communication, how to play off one another, I think that it will continue to grow as a unit on both ends of the floor. But it is important to close out games within those last few minutes on the road because it's a very tough environment and you have to rely on yourself for that energy and that extra push to get the job done.” Noelle Quinn said.
Additional Analysis
The Return of Elena Delle Donne
Elena Delle Donne played her first WNBA game since she won Game 5 of the 2019 WNBA Finals 89-78 over the Connecticut Sun. She had not played a game in nearly two years (682 days total). During that time Delle Donne has had two back surgeries and sat out the 2020 Bubble/Pandemic season because there was a high medical risk because of her Lyme disease.
Honestly, I think a lot of people had their doubts that she would return to the basketball court in 2021. As we’re now 75% of the way through this season and with the Mystics currently out of the playoffs, it wouldn’t have been shocking if Delle Donne just opted to continue rehab and get prepared for the 2022 season where Washington looks to add a healthy Alysha Clark and the likely addition of Emma Meesseman who sat out this season to lead the Belgian National team in the Tokyo Olympics.
With that said, it was great to see her back out on the court. She is one of the game’s best players over the past decade. Delle Donne is a two-time WNBA MVP, 6-time All-Star, 4-time All WNBA 1st Team, and has led three WNBA teams to the Finals (Chicago - 2014, Washington DC - 2018, 2019).
In her return, she scored 16 points on 45% FG shooting (5-11) and a perfect 5-5 from the FT line. EDD is one of the league’s most talented offensive players so it was not shocking to see her find success on the offensive end of the court.
In that regard, she even impressed herself speaking with Holly Rowe after the game.
”I had that first day of school butterfly feeling. I was super nervous. I was even telling my family ‘Look, I’m nervous! This might not be good.’ but it was so exciting just to be out here. It’s been quite a journey and it’s still a day-to-day thing. I’m honored that I was able to get out here and compete with my team. But we’ll see how I’m doing once the adrenaline wears off. And (hopefully) get ready for the next one.” Delle Donne said.
Overall, this game definitely felt like a success for Elena. Scoring 16 points in a WNBA game is never easy and to do it after multiple back surgeries and not having played a game in nearly two years is quite the accomplishment. With that said, she did look a step slow out there at times. And whether that’s a conditioning thing (you can be in great shape but not in game shape) or if it’s due to her back surgeries and pain she’s likely still dealing with, we will have to wait and find out.
Delle Donne only had three rebounds in this game and certainly wasn’t jumping in the air much in this game to gather those boards. While not quite as good of a rebounder as Stewie, EDD has averaged roughly 7.5 RPG over the past five healthy seasons she’s played. I felt her lack of rebounding in this game was noticeable.
Seattle was also able to take advantage of her defensively at times. Challenging Delle Donne’s lateral quickness to contain players driving to the basket. Both Katie Lou and Breanna Stewart challenged her defensive ability in this game.
During the post-game press conference, I wanted to talk to Breanna Stewart about the comparisons between her and Elena Delle Donne. If she watched Elena while she was playing in high school or college and if she tried to learn or mimic her game after Delle Donne at all.
“Yeah, I definitely followed her career. Not as much while I was in high school. Obviously, I was aware of who she was but more so in college. As she was at Delaware because we overlapped one year in college and we had a potential opportunity to meet up with them in the Elite 8 game in Bridgeport. But just trying to take anything from her game. Her versatility, she’s always poised and under control. And now to play against her and a lot of times alongside her with USA Basketball. You know, you just appreciate other people’s talent. You realize having multiple people who can continue to use their versatility not just on the court but off the court to expand and continue to raise the bar for women’s basketball is what’s most important.” Stewart told me.
Gutsy Win
What stood out the most to me about this game was that it really was a victory Seattle had to earn. This was a gutsy win in my eyes. Their star players did not play at an elite level for good portions of this game and their shots weren’t falling. Seattle got down big early 11-2 and 16-4 in the first quarter on the road with the opposing crowd loud and ready to rally behind the Mystics and the return of Elena Delle Donne.
Not to mention, the Washington Mystics are led by one of the greatest coaches in WNBA history, Mike Thibault. And (outside of the 2018 Finals), the Mystics have often been a very difficult matchup for Seattle over the past few years. I wrote all about that in my last recap between these two teams. You can go back and read at the link below.
Mystics and Tina Charles upset the Storm 87-83.
I spoke to Coach Quinn and Breanna Stewart after the game about having that composure and championship mentality to weather the storm on the road and to hold off all the Mystics’ rallies in the third and fourth quarters of the game.
“My sentiment before the game was that we understand Delle Donne is back and there's a lot of excitement around that but our focus is on ourselves, our schemes, our matchups, and how to make her uncomfortable. How to take away their threes and just attack the team. The focus has to be on ourselves, in our mindset in our game plan. Not worrying about external things that are going on, just locking in and focusing, having tunnel vision on what we need to do to accomplish our goal for that day: the game.” Noelle Quinn stated.
“It’s very important. Getting wins on the road is kind of setting up what to expect in the postseason. Sometimes with this team, it's a matter of just staying the course. Not getting too high, not getting too low. I felt that I never thought that we were just kind of out of sync in a way that we couldn't kind of steady the ship, I just thought that we needed to lock in a little bit more on what we needed to do. Obviously, in the first few minutes of the game, we're taking quick shots and not moving the ball, so I think we're learning, we’re growing, continuing to peak at the right time and just figuring out how to play with one another but yet, figuring out how to win on the road and pulling out difficult wins on the road is a sign of a very good team.” Quinn continued.
“I don’t think we were flustered in the beginning when it was 11-2. We got a lot of good looks at the rim and they just didn’t go in. And just continuing to play through that. When our bench came in, they gave us some different energy than what we started with. (We) just continued to gut it out like you said. Any time you go on the road it’s not easy, but just making sure we’re making big plays and we’re continuing to play whether the ball goes in the basket or it doesn’t. Because we know that after 40 minutes the chances are we’re going to be on the (winning) side if we continue to play hard.” Stewart added.
Seattle is the first WNBA team to win 10 games on the road this season. As Coach Quinn talked about, that’s going to be extremely important when it comes playoff time. If Seattle does not finish with the number one overall seed they are likely going to have to win multiple games on the road in the playoffs in order to take home their 5th WNBA Championship. Their championship mentality, composure, and experience are going to be key factors if they want to accomplish that goal.
Jersey Count
The Storm were back in their Black “Rebel” jerseys for the first time since the Olympic break. While the team has “struggled” a bit while wearing their black uniforms, they were able to pick up a very important victory in Washington, DC on Sunday afternoon.
Records per jersey type this season:
Rebel: 5-3
Explorer: 5-2
Heroine: 8-2
Overall Record: 18-7
Up Next
The Seattle Storm finish their five-game road trip with a game Tuesday, August 24th against the Minnesota Lynx. The game will be played at 4:00 PM PT and air nationally on ESPN2.
Seattle can almost guarantee to finish no worse than the third seed if they secure a victory over the Minnesota Lynx. They already own the season-series tiebreaker over Minnesota as they beat the Lynx two times earlier this season. Another win over Minnesota would give Seattle a four-game lead (actually five because they own the tiebreaker) with six games left to play.
More importantly for the Storm, with a win on Tuesday, the Storm will move back up to the 2nd best record in the league standings. With both the Las Vegas Aces (17-6) and Connecticut Sun (17-6) facing off against each other on Tuesday one of them will fall to 17-7. If the Storm are able to win against Minnesota on Tuesday, they’ll improve to 19-7 on the year.
Editor’s Note: Thank you for your support! If you know any Storm fans that aren’t currently aware of my coverage through Substack and Twitter (@WNBAStormChaser), please let them know. Word of mouth can be super helpful and is greatly appreciated! Also, feel free to drop comments in the section below. If there’s any part of the coverage you really enjoyed let me know. If you have questions on something, I’ll do my best to track down the answer and ask during media availability. Photo Credits to Neil Enns/Seattle Storm/WNBA Photography.