Nneka Ogwumike Shines with 24 Points as Sparks Edge Past Storm

SEATTLE (AP) — In an impressive performance against her former team, Nneka Ogwumike scored a season-high 24 points, leading the Los Angeles Sparks to a narrow 88-83 victory over the Seattle Storm on Wednesday night. Kelsey Plum contributed significantly as well, finishing the game with 19 points and 11 assists.

Ogwumike, who played for the Storm in the previous two seasons, also pulled down nine rebounds, earning her a spot in the WNBA’s all-time career leaderboard by surpassing Rebekkah Brunson to claim fourth place. Cameron Brink provided a strong effort off the bench with 15 points, while Dearica Hamby recorded 10 rebounds for Los Angeles, improving their record to 6-6 in the Commissioner’s Cup matchup.

For Seattle, which has now suffered seven consecutive losses, Natisha Hiedeman led the scoring with 16 points. The Storm saw all five of their starters reach double figures, with Dominique Malonga adding 15, Flau’jae Johnson contributing 14, Awa Fam scoring 12, and Jordan Horston chipping in 11.

The turning point came when Chance Gray converted three free throws, giving the Sparks a 72-70 lead with just over eight minutes left in the fourth quarter, a lead they maintained until the final whistle. Although a late defensive foul against Los Angeles was overturned after a coach’s review, the Sparks managed to retain control of the game. Plum ultimately secured the win by sinking two free throws with only 1.6 seconds remaining.

Looking ahead, the Sparks will face off against the Phoenix Mercury on Saturday night, while the Storm will host the Golden State Warriors on Friday.