Storm Rally from 12 Down to Stun Sparks in Seattle Home Opener

SEATTLE — The Seattle Storm launched their 2026 WNBA home schedule with a gritty 85-78 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks on Saturday at Climate Pledge Arena, overcoming a 12-point halftime deficit in front of a raucous hometown crowd. Initially reported by FOX 13 Seattle, the Storm's rally showcased their resilience, turning a sluggish start into a statement win. Local fans packed the arena in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood, celebrating the team's first home triumph of the season.

Seattle trailed by double digits entering the second half but mounted a decisive comeback, outscoring the Sparks in the fourth quarter to secure the seven-point victory. Standout performances from Storm veterans like Nneka Ogwumike, who has a history of big games against LA including a 37-point outburst in an August 2025 matchup, powered the surge. The win improves Seattle's early-season record and boosts momentum as they host more games at the state-of-the-art Climate Pledge Arena, a hub for Washington sports enthusiasts.

For the Sparks, the loss echoes late-game collapses seen in prior meetings, such as their September 2025 defeat where they rallied but fell short. Seattle's defensive stand in the final minutes stifled LA's stars, preventing another Hamby-Jackson heroics display from 2025. With this home opener under their belt, the Storm look ahead to building on their Washington fanbase's passion amid a competitive WNBA landscape.