The WNBA is back in action on August 15th 2024 following a pause for the Olympic games and Team USA’s gold medal win against France on their home floor in front of 12,000+ fans in Paris.
Ideal hoops and the most impactful players on the return to action on Thursday night (8/15) were Phoenix’s Kahleah Copper 29 points and Brittney Griner 23 points (83% FGs), 9 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 blocks. Also impactful in their respective wins were Napheesa Collier MN with 17 points and 12 rebounds, plus Breanna Stewart NY with 27 points.
Strong performances off the bench include Dana Evans CHI 14 points, Kayla Thornton NY 16 points, and Rae Burrell LA with 13 points. Besides Napheesa Collier, double-doubles for Angel Reese CHI 11 points, 15 rebounds and Dearica Hamby LA 14 points, 13 rebounds.
Both the Mercury and Liberty had a 79% assist to field goal ratio against their opponents. Sharing means caring. Both NY and Phoenix won decisively as both teams had Olympians on their respective WNBA rosters. These folks played with an edge upon return. They exuded energy, effort, and enthusiasm on both offense and defense. The Mercury’s Kahleah Copper and Brittney Griner looked unstoppable. Phoenix looked better than where they left off five weeks ago. Diana Taurasi was fresh and efficient.
Welcome back from injury and good to see playing again are three players from the Washington Mystics, Brittney Sykes, Karlie Samuelson, and Shakira Austin; plus Chicago’s Moriah Jefferson, New York’s Nyara Sabally, and Los Angeles’ Azura Stevens.
Hip-hip-hooray, no technical or flagrant fouls in the NY-LA game. Their should be an emphasis on better sportsmanship in the league.
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