The Favorites Bounce Back

09/01/2022

By: Matthew Cahill

Sky and Aces Pick up Victories to Knock Things up at 1-1

The #1 and #2 seeds responded to game 1 losses on their home court with game 2 victories before going on the road. While the Storm didn’t win on Wednesday, I still like their chances to pull off an upset, as long as Breanna Stewart can get some damn help on the offensive end.

 

Game 2: #2 Sky def. #3 Sun (85-77)

The Sky bounced back in a big way after their game 1 defeat and reminded everybody why they’re the defending champs with an assertive victory over the Sun. While the final score was in single digits, Chicago was in control of this game from the tip until the final buzzer. They responded well to Connecticut’s physicality that overwhelmed them in game one, and all five Sky starters reached double-figures scoring.

 

Game 2: #1 Aces def. #4 Storm (78-73)

The MVP candidates came to play last night, as both A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart went for 30-plus in game 2. However, it was the supporting cast of Las Vegas that was the key to their victory, particularly Chelsea Gray, who contributed 19 points and 7 assists. Her ability to bail the Aces out of bad possessions by creating her own shot and knocking down contested looks was absolutely huge, and something the Storm will definitely need going forward.

 

Additional Storylines

Yahoo!: Candace Parker Leads Well-Balanced Sky Offense to Even Semifinal Series

Yahoo!: A’ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray Power Aces to Even Semifinals Series vs. Storm

 

Photo: Ethan Miller / Getty Images