The Seattle Storm travel to Gateway Center Arena on Friday night to take on the Atlanta Dream in what projects to be one of the closest matchups of the evening. Atlanta enters as a slim 1.5-point favorite, but Seattle’s balance on both ends of the floor makes this far from a straightforward call. The Storm have been steady all season behind a veteran-led roster, while the Dream have been streaky, often leaning on their dynamic backcourt to carry the scoring load. Both teams are jockeying for playoff position, and this head-to-head battle could have tie-breaker implications down the road.
Position-by-Position Breakdown
Point Guard – Skylar Diggins-Smith brings veteran poise to the Storm offense, controlling tempo and making timely scoring contributions. Rhyne Howard, while naturally more of a wing, continues to serve as Atlanta’s primary initiator, using her size and vision to create mismatches in the half-court.
Shooting Guard – Jewell Loyd remains Seattle’s go-to scorer, capable of breaking down defenses off the dribble or catching fire from beyond the arc. Allisha Gray counters for Atlanta with a balanced game, combining slashing ability with perimeter defense that could help limit Loyd’s efficiency.
Small Forward – Gabby Williams gives the Storm a versatile defender and an underrated secondary playmaker. Haley Jones holds down the spot for Atlanta, using her court vision and ability to push the pace to create scoring opportunities for her teammates.
Power Forward – Ezi Magbegor is a defensive force for Seattle, using her length to protect the rim and her mobility to guard in space. Naz Hillmon brings energy and rebounding to Atlanta’s frontcourt but will have to work hard to keep Magbegor from dominating the paint.
Center – Mercedes Russell anchors the middle for the Storm, providing size and physicality on the boards. Cheyenne Parker offers Atlanta a more offensively skilled option at center, capable of scoring in the low post and stretching defenses with her midrange shot.
Game Outlook
This game will likely come down to execution in the final five minutes. Seattle will try to slow the pace, rely on half-court execution, and let Loyd create in isolation late. Atlanta will want to run when possible and use Howard and Gray’s athleticism to create early offense. The battle on the boards, especially between Magbegor and Parker, could be the swing factor in such a tight matchup.
Best Bets
- Seattle Storm +1.5 – Seattle’s veteran backcourt and defensive consistency make them a strong value as an underdog.
- Under 161.5 Total Points – Both teams defend well in the half-court, which could keep scoring in check.
- Jewell Loyd Over Points – Loyd’s offensive workload should remain high, especially in a close game.
Final Score Prediction
Seattle Storm 80 – Atlanta Dream 77
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