The WNBA’s in-season Commissioners Cup has wrapped up, highlighting an exciting nationally televised matchup between the Dallas Wings and the Seattle Storm. The Wings will be without Paige Bueckers, sidelined due to concussion protocol, while the Storm are managing some inconsistency. Here’s what to know ahead of Tuesday night’s game:
How to Watch Dallas Wings at Seattle Storm
- Venue: Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle
- Time: Tuesday at 9:30 PM
- TV: ESPN
- Streaming: fubo (free trial available)
- Tickets: Available on StubHub
Seattle boasts a strong offensive trio featuring veterans Skylar Diggins (17.9 points per game) and Nneka Ogwumike (16.9 ppg), alongside Gabby Williams, who is thriving in her fourth season averaging 14.0 points. Together, they rank second in field goal percentage and third in assists, delivering a potent scoring threat. However, the Storm have faced challenges recently, losing their last three games. Most recently, they fell by five points in a close fight, including a tough loss last Friday where Rhyne Howard scored a season-high 33 points and Allisha Gray had a career-best 28 against Seattle’s defense. The Storm also dropped a competitive 82-77 game against the Lynx.
Tuesday’s game against the struggling Wings, who hold a 1-6 record, looks like it could be a critical opportunity for Seattle. The Wings face the challenge without Bueckers and currently rank 11th in defensive ratings, and near the bottom in categories like second chance points and defensive rebounds. They are coming off losses in a closely contested "Home and Away" mini-series against the Storm. Dallas is led by guard Arike Ogunbowale, despite her shooting struggles this season, and newcomer DiJonai Carrington, whose shooting has been disappointing compared to her rookie year. The team also faces issues with turnovers and fouls, though rookie Maddy Siegrist has shown promise, with four blocks in her last two games and consistent scoring.
Looking ahead, the Commissioners Cup Championship will take place on July 1st, with four different teams having won in its four years: Minnesota last year, New York in 2023, Las Vegas in 2022, and Seattle in 2021.
Top Players to Have Worn Both Jerseys:
A tough choice, but Hall of Famers Swin Cash and Katie Smith stand out, alongside six All-WNBA stars and current Storm guard Skylar Diggins.
Fan Take: This matchup highlights the intensity and talent that make the WNBA so thrilling to watch, especially as teams battle for momentum mid-season. For fans, these games offer a glimpse of rising stars and veteran leadership that drive the sport’s growing popularity and competitive spirit.
