The seattle storm vs las vegas aces match player stats reveal one of the most thrilling playoff encounters of the 2024 WNBA season. In a high-stakes Game 2 matchup at Michelob ULTRA Arena on September 24, 2024, the defending champion Las Vegas Aces showcased their championship pedigree by defeating the Seattle Storm 83-76. This decisive victory completed a first-round sweep and propelled the Aces into the WNBA semifinals for the sixth consecutive season, keeping their three-peat championship dreams alive.
The las vegas aces vs seattle storm match player stats tell the story of resilience and determination from both sides. After the Storm mounted several comeback attempts throughout the contest, including taking their first lead with under eight minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, the Aces responded with composure and precision. Reigning MVP A’ja Wilson and sharpshooter Kelsey Plum combined for 53 points, overpowering Seattle’s balanced offensive attack led by Gabby Williams and Nneka Ogwumike. The game featured dramatic momentum swings, clutch plays, and standout individual performances that exemplified playoff basketball at its finest.
Read more: Denver Nuggets vs Golden State Warriors Match Player Stats
🏟️ Key Players and Teams Who Took the Field
Teams and Key Players
| Team | Key Players | Notable Contributions |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle Storm | Gabby Williams, Nneka Ogwumike, Skylar Diggins-Smith, Ezi Magbegor, Jewell Loyd | Williams: 20 points; Ogwumike: 16 points, 10 rebounds; Diggins-Smith: 13 points, 10 assists |
| Las Vegas Aces | A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, Tiffany Hayes | Wilson: 24 points, 13 rebounds; Plum: 29 points on 73.3% shooting; Gray: 12 points, 9 assists |
Game Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event Type | 2024 WNBA Playoffs – First Round Game 2 |
| Location | Michelob ULTRA Arena, Paradise, Nevada |
| Date & Time | Tuesday, September 24, 2024 (9:30 PM ET) |
| Significance | Series-clinching game; Aces complete sweep to advance to semifinals |
| General Recap | Las Vegas dominated early, building a 16-point lead before Seattle rallied. The Storm briefly took the lead in the fourth quarter, but the Aces closed strong with an 8-0 run to secure the victory and a rematch with the New York Liberty in the semifinals. |
Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring
| Team | Quarter 1 | Quarter 2 | Quarter 3 | Quarter 4 | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Storm | 20 | 18 | 19 | 19 | 76 |
| Las Vegas Aces | 30 | 13 | 19 | 21 | 83 |
Additional Breakdown Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| What Was the Event? | 2024 WNBA Playoffs First Round, Game 2 of best-of-three series |
| Where Was the Match Held? | Michelob ULTRA Arena in Paradise, Nevada (Las Vegas area) |
| When Did It Take Place? | Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at 9:30 PM Eastern Time |
| Why Was the Match Significant? | Defending champions Las Vegas sought to complete a first-round sweep; Storm aimed to force Game 3 and keep playoff hopes alive |
| How Did It Unfold Generally? | The Aces exploded out of the gate with impeccable shooting, leading 30-20 after one quarter. Seattle chipped away at the deficit throughout the second and third quarters. The Storm took their first lead with 7:58 remaining in the fourth quarter, but Las Vegas responded decisively with a 7-0 run and held on for the series-clinching victory. |
The seattle storm vs las vegas aces match player stats showcase the intensity of playoff basketball, where every possession matters and championship experience often proves decisive in crucial moments.
📊 Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown
Quarter 1: Aces’ Dominant Start
Key Moments:
- Las Vegas opened with a blistering 15-4 run in the first four minutes
- A’ja Wilson scored seven early points while Kelsey Plum added five
- The Aces extended their lead to 23-7 with Wilson, Plum, and Chelsea Gray leading the charge
- Wilson, Plum, and Gray combined to score all 28 of Las Vegas’ first-quarter points
Shifts in Momentum: The Storm picked up their defensive intensity in the final three minutes of the quarter, trimming the deficit from 16 points to 10 by quarter’s end.
Player Substitutions/Injuries: No significant substitutions or injuries reported in the opening quarter. Both teams relied heavily on their starting lineups.
Notable Strategies: Las Vegas employed an aggressive offensive attack, shooting an exceptional 66.7% from the field and connecting on 5-of-6 three-point attempts. The Aces targeted mismatches and moved the ball efficiently to generate open looks.
Extra Insights: The home crowd at Michelob ULTRA Arena was electric, providing significant energy for the defending champions. Wilson and Plum combined for 24 points on 12 field goals each in the opening period.
Quarter 2: Storm’s Resilient Response
Key Moments:
- With Wilson and Plum on the bench early, Seattle mounted a comeback, cutting the lead to four points (33-29)
- The Storm benefited from a free throw disparity, converting all six attempts while Las Vegas had only one
- Seattle went on a 9-0 run to get within one point (39-38) with 2:02 remaining
- The Aces closed the half with a 6-0 run, capped by Wilson’s two free throws with 2.8 seconds left
Shifts in Momentum: The second quarter belonged to Seattle for most of the period. The Storm outscored the Aces 18-13 in the quarter, capitalizing on Las Vegas going more than four minutes without a field goal.
Player Substitutions/Injuries: Both teams rotated their benches more frequently, with Kelsey Plum and A’ja Wilson resting during a crucial stretch that allowed Seattle to mount their comeback.
Notable Strategies: Seattle implemented a more physical defensive approach, forcing Las Vegas into difficult shots and capitalizing at the free throw line. The Storm also increased their tempo to disrupt the Aces’ offensive rhythm.
Extra Insights: The Aces’ shooting cooled considerably after their scorching first quarter, but their veteran composure allowed them to maintain a 43-38 halftime lead.
Quarter 3: Competitive Battle
Key Moments:
- Seattle tied the game at 47-47 midway through the quarter after trailing since early in the first quarter
- Both teams traded baskets in a highly competitive period
- The Storm slightly outscored the Aces 19-17 in the quarter
Shifts in Momentum: The momentum swung back and forth throughout the third quarter, with neither team able to establish control. Seattle’s energy and defensive pressure kept them within striking distance.
Player Substitutions/Injuries: Ezi Magbegor, who missed Game 1 due to a concussion, provided valuable minutes and contributed 14 points in her return to the lineup.
Notable Strategies: Both teams adjusted defensively, with Seattle focusing on containing Wilson while Las Vegas worked to limit Seattle’s penetration and kick-out opportunities for three-pointers.
Extra Insights: The Storm entered the fourth quarter trailing by just five points (62-57), setting up a dramatic final period. The crowd sensed the tension as both teams prepared for the decisive quarter.
Quarter 4: Aces’ Championship Poise
Key Moments:
- Seattle took their first lead of the game (65-64) with 7:58 remaining
- Las Vegas immediately responded with a 7-0 run, with Jackie Young’s fast-break layup giving them a 71-65 advantage
- Ezi Magbegor missed two crucial free throws that could have cut the lead to four with 2:22 left
- Chelsea Gray answered with a mid-range jumper to push the lead to eight
- Tiffany Hayes sealed the victory with a layup through traffic with 46 seconds remaining
Shifts in Momentum: The Storm briefly seized momentum by taking the lead, but the Aces’ championship experience shone through as they executed down the stretch without panic.
Player Substitutions/Injuries: No major substitutions, as both teams relied on their top players in the critical moments of the deciding quarter.
Notable Strategies: Las Vegas ran their offense through Wilson and Plum, while also utilizing Gray’s playmaking ability to create high-percentage shots. Seattle attempted to speed up the pace but struggled with execution in crucial possessions.
Extra Insights: The Aces’ composure under pressure highlighted why they’re two-time defending champions. Their ability to execute in clutch moments proved to be the difference in a tightly contested game.
🌟 Highlight Standout Performances
Star Players and Their Stats
| Player | Team | Points | Rebounds | Assists | FG% | Notable Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kelsey Plum | Aces | 29 | 6 | 2 | 73.3% (11-15 FG) | Game-high scorer; bounced back from 2-point Game 1 |
| A’ja Wilson | Aces | 24 | 13 | 2 | 52.9% (9-17 FG) | 13th career playoff double-double with 20+ points and 10+ rebounds (WNBA record) |
| Gabby Williams | Storm | 20 | 8 | 3 | 41.7% | Led Storm in scoring |
| Nneka Ogwumike | Storm | 16 | 10 | 1 | 29.4% (5-17 FG) | Double-double despite shooting struggles |
| Skylar Diggins-Smith | Storm | 13 | 3 | 10 | 29.4% (5-17 FG) | Double-digit assists; playmaking kept Storm competitive |
| Chelsea Gray | Aces | 12 | 2 | 9 | 50.0% | Near triple-double watch; crucial late-game jumper |
| Ezi Magbegor | Storm | 14 | 5 | 0 | 50.0% | Returned from concussion; provided solid contribution |
| Jewell Loyd | Storm | 9 | 3 | 2 | 27.3% (3-11 FG) | Struggled offensively |
Shooting Percentages
| Team | Field Goal % | 3-Point % | Free Throw % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Storm | 38.7% (29-75) | 34.8% (8-23) | 76.9% (10-13) |
| Las Vegas Aces | 47.0% (31-66) | 31.8% (7-22) | 87.5% (14-16) |
Assists, Steals, Blocks
| Team | Total Assists | Total Steals | Total Blocks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Storm | 19 | 5 | 3 |
| Las Vegas Aces | 22 | 8 | 4 |
Clutch Moments
A’ja Wilson’s Record-Breaking Performance: Wilson set a WNBA playoff record with her 13th career game featuring 20+ points and at least 10 rebounds, surpassing legends Tamika Catchings and Candace Parker.
Kelsey Plum’s Redemption: After scoring just two points in Game 1, Plum erupted for 29 points on an efficient 11-of-15 shooting, including critical baskets in the fourth quarter that helped seal the victory.
Chelsea Gray’s Clutch Dagger: With 2:22 remaining and Seattle threatening, Gray drained a mid-range jumper to push the lead to eight points, effectively ending the Storm’s comeback hopes.
Jackie Young’s Fast-Break Layup: Young’s transition basket during the Aces’ decisive 7-0 run gave Las Vegas a six-point cushion and shifted momentum permanently back to the home team.
Leadership and Teamwork
A’ja Wilson demonstrated exceptional leadership as the newly crowned three-time MVP, controlling the paint on both ends and setting the tone with her dominant presence. Chelsea Gray showcased her veteran savvy with nine assists, orchestrating the offense and making crucial plays down the stretch. Skylar Diggins-Smith displayed tremendous heart for Seattle, recording 10 assists while trying to engineer the comeback, though her shooting efficiency suffered under defensive pressure.
📈 Key Statistics
Final Score
| Team | Final Score |
|---|---|
| Seattle Storm | 76 |
| Las Vegas Aces | 83 |
Total Points and Rebounds
| Team | Total Points | Total Rebounds | Offensive Rebounds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Storm | 76 | 30 | 7 |
| Las Vegas Aces | 83 | 45 | 10 |
Turnovers
| Team | Turnovers | Points Off Turnovers |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle Storm | 4 | 15 |
| Las Vegas Aces | 15 | 4 |
Steals, Blocks, and Defensive Stats
| Team | Steals | Blocks | Defensive Rebounds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Storm | 5 | 3 | 23 |
| Las Vegas Aces | 8 | 4 | 35 |
Paint Points and Fast Break Comparison
| Team | Points in the Paint | Fast Break Points |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle Storm | 34 | 6 |
| Las Vegas Aces | 42 | 9 |
Personal Fouls
| Team | Total Fouls |
|---|---|
| Seattle Storm | 14 |
| Las Vegas Aces | 13 |
The seattle storm vs las vegas aces match player stats reveal Las Vegas’ dominance in the paint and on the boards, which proved crucial in securing the series-clinching victory. The Aces outrebounded Seattle 45-30, giving them additional possessions and limiting second-chance opportunities for the Storm.
🗣️ Quotes and Reactions
Post-Game Quotes from Players and Coaches
Aces Head Coach Becky Hammon on the team’s balanced attack:
- “It’s anybody on any given night and it’s just about winning. That’s what championship teams do—whoever needs to step up, steps up.”
Kelsey Plum on the upcoming semifinals matchup with the Liberty:
- “We have to focus on what we do. We know what New York brings to the table, but it’s about executing our game plan and playing Aces basketball.”
A’ja Wilson on her playoff record:
- Wilson’s historic 13th playoff double-double with 20+ points and 10+ rebounds cements her legacy as one of the greatest playoff performers in WNBA history, surpassing Tamika Catchings and Candace Parker.
Key Takeaways from Player Reactions
Championship Experience Matters:
- Players highlighted how the Aces’ experience in high-pressure situations allowed them to remain calm when Seattle took the lead in the fourth quarter
- The team’s ability to execute down the stretch demonstrated their championship mentality
Kelsey Plum’s Bounce-Back Performance:
- Teammates praised Plum’s resilience after a difficult Game 1, noting her aggressive mindset and shot-making ability in Game 2
- Her 29-point explosion on 73.3% shooting showcased why she’s one of the league’s most dangerous scorers
Seattle’s Competitive Spirit:
- Despite the series sweep, Storm players expressed pride in their fight, particularly their ability to erase a 16-point deficit and take the lead in the fourth quarter
- Skylar Diggins-Smith’s playmaking (10 assists) demonstrated the team’s offensive potential
Analyst Perspectives
| Analyst View | Commentary |
|---|---|
| On Wilson’s Dominance | A’ja Wilson’s ability to impact the game on both ends—24 points, 13 rebounds, and defensive presence—solidifies her status as the best two-way player in the WNBA |
| On Plum’s Redemption | Kelsey Plum’s shooting performance (11-15 FG, 73.3%) after a 2-point Game 1 shows the mental toughness required at the championship level |
| On Seattle’s Effort | The Storm’s refusal to quit, cutting a 16-point deficit and taking a fourth-quarter lead, demonstrated why they’re a dangerous playoff team despite the sweep |
| On Las Vegas’ Execution | The Aces’ 7-0 run after Seattle took the lead exemplified championship-level execution and composure under pressure |
🧠 Match Analysis
What Went Right
For Las Vegas Aces:
- Offensive Efficiency: The Aces shot 47.0% from the field compared to Seattle’s 38.7%, creating higher-quality looks throughout the game
- Rebounding Dominance: Las Vegas controlled the glass with a 45-30 advantage, limiting Seattle’s second-chance opportunities while creating their own
- Balanced Scoring: Beyond Wilson and Plum’s 53 combined points, Chelsea Gray (12 points, 9 assists) and Jackie Young provided crucial contributions
- First-Quarter Explosion: The dominant 30-20 opening quarter, fueled by 66.7% shooting and 5-of-6 three-point shooting, set the tone
- Fourth-Quarter Composure: After Seattle took the lead, the Aces responded immediately with a decisive 7-0 run, showcasing championship mettle
For Seattle Storm:
- Resilience and Fight: The Storm erased a 16-point deficit and took a fourth-quarter lead, demonstrating tremendous competitive spirit
- Playmaking Excellence: Skylar Diggins-Smith’s 10 assists facilitated ball movement and created open looks for teammates
- Balanced Contributions: Four Storm players scored in double figures (Williams 20, Ogwumike 16, Magbegor 14, Diggins-Smith 13)
- Ezi Magbegor’s Return: Coming back from a concussion, Magbegor provided 14 quality points and solid interior presence
- Free Throw Shooting: Seattle converted 10 of 13 free throws (76.9%), capitalizing at the charity stripe when opportunities arose
What Went Wrong
For Seattle Storm:
- Shooting Struggles: The Storm shot just 38.7% overall and 34.8% from three-point range, unable to sustain offensive rhythm
- First-Quarter Deficit: Allowing 30 points in the opening quarter and falling behind 23-7 at one point dug too deep a hole
- Jewell Loyd’s Off Night: The team’s leading scorer during the regular season managed just 9 points on 3-of-11 shooting
- Missed Free Throws: Ezi Magbegor’s two missed free throws with 2:22 remaining—when the game was within four points—proved costly
- Rebounding Disadvantage: Being outrebounded 45-30 meant fewer possessions and more second-chance opportunities for Las Vegas
- Late-Game Execution: Unable to convert crucial possessions after taking the lead in the fourth quarter
For Las Vegas Aces:
- Second-Quarter Slump: The Aces managed just 13 points in the second quarter, going more than four minutes without a field goal
- Turnovers: Las Vegas committed 15 turnovers compared to Seattle’s four, though they limited the damage (Storm scored only 15 points off turnovers)
- Three-Point Shooting: The Aces shot just 31.8% from beyond the arc (7-22), below their season average
Offensive and Defensive Successes and Failures
Offensive Analysis:
| Aspect | Success | Failure |
|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas Offense | Dominated the paint (42 points); efficient shot selection (47.0% FG); Plum’s scoring explosion (29 points on 73.3% shooting) | Struggled from three-point range (31.8%); 15 turnovers gave Seattle extra possessions |
| Seattle Offense | Strong playmaking (19 assists); balanced scoring with four double-digit scorers; fought back from large deficit | Poor overall shooting (38.7% FG); Loyd and Diggins-Smith combined 8-28 from the field; couldn’t capitalize after taking fourth-quarter lead |
Defensive Analysis:
| Aspect | Success | Failure |
|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas Defense | Limited Storm to 38.7% shooting; forced difficult shots; controlled defensive glass (35 defensive rebounds) | Allowed Seattle to shoot 34.8% from three in second half; gave up comeback after building 16-point lead |
| Seattle Defense | Held Aces to 13 points in second quarter; forced 15 turnovers; limited second-chance points | Couldn’t contain Wilson (24 points, 13 rebounds) and Plum (29 points); allowed 42 paint points; outrebounded by 15 |
Controversial Calls or Game-Changing Moments
Critical Moments:
- Ezi Magbegor’s Missed Free Throws (2:22 remaining): With Seattle trailing 78-74, Magbegor had an opportunity to cut the deficit to two possessions but missed both free throws. Chelsea Gray immediately responded with a jumper, extending the lead to eight and effectively ending the Storm’s hopes.
- Seattle’s Brief Lead (7:58 Q4): When the Storm took their first and only lead at 65-64, it marked a pivotal moment. However, the Aces’ immediate 7-0 response demonstrated their championship poise and ability to execute under pressure.
- First-Quarter Onslaught: Las Vegas’ 30-point first quarter, including a 23-7 run, forced Seattle to play from behind for virtually the entire game, expending energy that might have been better preserved for late-game execution.
Recent Form Leading into the Match
Las Vegas Aces’ Momentum:
- Entered the playoffs on a five-game winning streak
- Won 10 of their final 12 regular-season games
- Defeated Seattle 85-72 in their final regular-season matchup just one week earlier
- A’ja Wilson had just been crowned MVP for the third time, tying the WNBA record
Seattle Storm’s Season Form:
- Finished strong, winning five of their final six games (with the lone loss to Las Vegas)
- Defeated Los Angeles Sparks twice in final week to secure the 5th seed
- Regular season record: 25-15
- Struggled against elite competition down the stretch, going 1-3 against Las Vegas in the regular season
The seattle storm vs las vegas aces match player stats ultimately revealed that championship experience and execution in crucial moments made the difference in a highly competitive series.
🏁 Conclusion
The seattle storm vs las vegas aces match player stats from Game 2 of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs paint the picture of a hard-fought battle between a resilient challenger and a championship dynasty. Las Vegas’ 83-76 victory completed a first-round sweep and showcased why the Aces are pursuing an unprecedented three-peat. A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum’s combined 53-point performance, coupled with the team’s championship composure in critical moments, proved too much for Seattle to overcome despite their valiant fourth-quarter surge.
This series-clinching victory holds significant implications for both franchises. For Las Vegas, advancing to the semifinals for the sixth consecutive season sets up an enticing rematch with the top-seeded New York Liberty—a repeat of the 2023 WNBA Finals. The Aces have now won 11 straight home playoff games and demonstrated that their championship core remains capable of executing at the highest level when it matters most.
For Seattle, despite the sweep, there are reasons for optimism moving forward. The Storm’s ability to battle back from a 16-point deficit and briefly take a fourth-quarter lead showed resilience and character. With a core featuring Jewell Loyd, Nneka Ogwumike, and Skylar Diggins-Smith, plus the return of Gabby Williams from overseas, Seattle remains positioned as a contender in the Western Conference. The Storm’s offseason will focus on building depth, improving consistency, and developing strategies to compete with elite teams like Las Vegas.
As the Aces prepare for their semifinal showdown with New York beginning October 1st, they carry the momentum of a convincing first-round sweep and the confidence of champions who know how to win when stakes are highest. The quest for a third consecutive title—which would make them the first team to achieve that feat since the Houston Comets won four straight from 1997-2000—continues with championship pedigree on full display.
❓ FAQs
Q1: What was the final score of the Seattle Storm vs Las Vegas Aces Game 2?
The Las Vegas Aces defeated the Seattle Storm 83-76 in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series on September 24, 2024, at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Paradise, Nevada. This victory completed a two-game sweep and advanced the Aces to the WNBA semifinals.
Q2: Who were the top performers in the Seattle Storm vs Las Vegas Aces match?
Kelsey Plum led all scorers with 29 points on 11-of-15 shooting (73.3%) for Las Vegas. A’ja Wilson added 24 points and 13 rebounds, setting a WNBA record with her 13th playoff game featuring 20+ points and 10+ rebounds. For Seattle, Gabby Williams scored 20 points, Nneka Ogwumike contributed 16 points and 10 rebounds, and Skylar Diggins-Smith dished out 10 assists.
Q3: What were the key moments that decided the game?
The decisive sequence occurred in the fourth quarter when Seattle took their first lead (65-64) with 7:58 remaining. Las Vegas immediately responded with a 7-0 run, including Jackie Young’s fast-break layup, to regain control at 71-65. Ezi Magbegor’s two missed free throws with 2:22 left, followed by Chelsea Gray’s clutch jumper, sealed the Aces’ victory.
Q4: How did Kelsey Plum bounce back from her Game 1 performance?
After scoring just two points in Game 1, Kelsey Plum exploded for a game-high 29 points in Game 2, shooting an efficient 73.3% from the field (11-15 FG). Her aggressive scoring mindset and shot-making ability were crucial in helping the Aces complete the series sweep and advance to the semifinals.
Q5: What records did A’ja Wilson set in this game?
A’ja Wilson set a WNBA playoff record by recording her 13th career game with 20+ points and at least 10 rebounds, surpassing WNBA legends Tamika Catchings and Candace Parker. This achievement came just days after Wilson earned her third WNBA MVP award, tying the league record.
Q6: Who will the Las Vegas Aces face in the semifinals?
The Las Vegas Aces will face the top-seeded New York Liberty in the WNBA semifinals, beginning with Game 1 on October 1st at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. This matchup is a rematch of the 2023 WNBA Finals, which the Aces won to secure their second consecutive championship. The best-of-five series promises to be a compelling battle between the league’s two most dominant teams.
Read More: Knicks vs Boston Celtics Match Player Stats
