Storms vs. Sun: Bonner and Lloyd’s Sun Look to Bounce Back from Loss

On June 24, the WNBA regular season continued as the Storm hosted the Sun.

The Sun’s four-game winning streak was snapped after losing to the Aces, but they remain at the top of the league with a 13-2 record. Scoring an average of 80.5 points per game (6th in the league), their defense shines with a league-best 70.7 points allowed per game. So far this season, the Sun excel in free throws, averaging 21.9 attempts and making 16.8, placing them among the front-runners. However, they lag in rebounding with only 34.2 boards per game, ranking towards the lower end of the league.

After the off-season adjustments, the Sun aim to improve further. They finished last season with a 27-13 record, third in the standings, advancing to the playoffs where they defeated the Wildcats 2-1 in the first round but fell to the Liberty 1-3 in the semifinals. Key acquisitions include Jefferson from Mercury, Mitchell and Bahamut from the Wildcats, and Abo from the Mystics, complemented by four rookies signed in the draft. These changes have shown on the court.

The Sun have five double-digit scorers, with Bonner averaging 16.7 points and 6 rebounds, Jones at 13.7 and 4.8, Carleton at 13, Thomas at 12.3, 9.3 rebounds, and 8 assists, and Harris at 10.9. While no standout numbers, the team’s balance is strong, particularly on defense.

In their last match, the Sun lost 74-85 to the Aces, ending their pursuit of a five-game win streak. Their 29 rebounds were significantly fewer than the Aces’ 42, limiting second-chance opportunities. Only Carleton (19 points) and Jones (18) reached double digits, while Wilson dominated for the Aces with 26 points and 16 rebounds.

The Storm’s recent form has been inconsistent, having had a six-game winning streak before dropping games. Following their loss to the Aces, they are now 9-6 and fourth in the league. With an average of 83.1 points scored (4th) and 79.7 points allowed (4th least), they exhibit balanced play. However, their three-point shooting is weak, with just 6.0 made per game and a 30.2% accuracy rate, ranking last. Additionally, they struggle with ball control, committing 13.8 turnovers per game, placing them high in the rankings.

This season, the Storm have shown significant improvement from last year, when they finished 11-29 and missed the playoffs. Key signings of All-Star Ogumike and former Mercury star Diggins-Smith indicate a renewed focus. With rookie guard Lloyd and veterans like Ogunmu and Magbegor contributing, the Storm aim to bounce back from their previous struggles. Four Storm players score in double digits, with Lloyd averaging 18.5 points and 5.5 rebounds, followed by Ogumike and Magbegor.

In their last game, the Storm lost 83-94 to the Aces, despite outrebounding them. Aces’ Jackie Young had a hot hand with 32 points. Storm had four double-digit scorers, including Ogunike’s 21 points, while Magbegor contributed a double-double. But a poor first half ultimately led to the defeat.

Tomorrow’s match marks the first meeting of the season between the two teams. Despite their recent losses, the Storm will not be taken lightly against the formidable Sun. The Sun have won all their previous five encounters. With Jefferson’s absence, it remains to be seen if the Storm can turn their fortunes or if the Sun continue their strong run. Stay tuned for the outcome.

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