Game no.2: // Los Angeles Sparks vs. Connecticut Sun

It seemed like the Sparks learned a lesson or two from Tuesday night’s defeat. However, it wasn’t long before the they lost the fire they had throughout the first quarter of the game. With defense falling apart, the Sun now took full advantage of the perfect opportunity to get close to the basket and increase shooting percentage.

At one point it did look promising for the Sparks. Nneka Ogwumike landed 19 points and 7 rebounds. Next in line was Riquna Williams, who managed to score 14 points. Chelsea Gray and Chiney Ogwumike had 10 each. Once the Los Angeles put 15 points on the board in the opening frame, Connecticut followed up with a smooth 16 points from Jonquel Jones’ 9 points and Courtney Williams 6, heading to a 26-16 lead in the second quarter.

Power Forward, Alyssa Thomas achieved 10/13 rebounds in the first half of the game and Jones rebounded 7/13, establishing the second biggest rebounding difference in WNBA playoffs history. Jones and Williams continued to lead the Sun’s high scoring impact with a combined 52 points. In fact, the Sun had a pretty epic night, with a 94 point win, as well as a 26 point victory margin, which was also a franchise high for the Connecticut Sun.

The Sun were still on a power trip from in terms of dominance; ending the 3rd quarter 29-17 and a 24-11 in the 4th, sealing the deal with 26 points standing between them and their opponent.

WNBA Playoffs Semifinals Game2 Los Angels Sparks vs Connecticut Sun, Full Game Highlights, September 19, 2019 For more information, please subscribe for WNBA League Pass. DISCLAIMER - For all clips related to WNBA are property of the WNBA. - No copyright infringement is intended.

Game no.2 // Los Vegas Aces vs. Washington Mystics

Game 2 was a surprising battle of the underdogs, both teams led by the unspoken heroes of the entire series; Emma Meesseman, Center for the Mystics and Aces’ Point Guard, Kelsey Plum. And the 4th seeded Aces are still fighting for a chance at their very first WNBA Championship win.

The Aces held their own against the top seeded Mystics. Their offense remained as steady and consistent as they were in Game 1, while Mystics improved by 52.1% in shooting. It was a smarter game plan for the Mystics to not going for every 3 pointer, but choosing to shoot more efficiently than they have been. Following Plum’s 19 points, Natasha Cloud was able to put up 18 with 11-assist game at over 50% shooting.

Maintaining the lead most of the game, the Aces came up short in the 3rd quarter, an inevitable turning point for the Mystics. Although Mystics were a little off in the first half, they came back with a vengeance in the second half, scoring four 3-pointers, thanks to Meesseman and Kristi Toliver. MVP Elena Delle Donne wasn’t having the best of nights, but the Aces double defense against her allowed Meesseman to have more open opportunities and an exceptional night overall. By the 4th quarter, Mystics were up 16 points. As if a team win wasn’t enough, Meesseman ended her night with a career high 30 points, 1/2 of which were 3-point attempts.

The game ended with Mystics leading the series 2-0.

WNBA Playoffs Semifinals Game2 Las Vegas Aces vs Washington Mystics, Full Game Highlights, September 19, 2019 For more information, please subscribe for WNBA League Pass. DISCLAIMER - For all clips related to WNBA are property of the WNBA. - No copyright infringement is intended.

Game 3 Predictions:

Mystics vs. Aces

I believe the Mystics’ offense will keep continue to play at the level they played in game 2, using that as a leverage strategy to sweep the Aces in game 3. Of course, it’ll be beneficial to not have another off game, but it might do more good than harm for Elena Delle Donne to re-position herself as team leader and pass that responsibility to Meesseman, just for the sake of staying consistency with Thursday night’s victory. As much as I love rooting for the underdog in most scenarios involving competition, I do see the Mystics sweeping their opponent, putting them in position to make it to the finals.

Sparks vs. Sun

As for the Sparks and Sun, I really hope to see Candace Parker step back up to the plate and give the same energy she was at the beginning of the series. Although the injuries from earlier in the season should be considered, her performance in Game 1 proved that she has stamina left to make a difference. Chances are, she’ll be the key to put the series at 2-1. Also, if defense can tighten up, Sparks could very will push it all the way to game 5, at least that’s the outcome I’m hoping for. However, realistically speaking, I just honestly don’t see that being the case, so I have to go with the Sun on this one.