Seattle Storm Star Surpasses 2 WNBA Milestones During Game vs. Chicago Sky

Seattle Storm guard Skylar Diggins-Smith achieved two major milestones in a single game against the Chicago Sky, making it a memorable night at Climate Pledge Arena on Sunday.

In front of a crowd of 11,283, which included University of Washington legends Nate Robinson and Isaiah Thomas, as well as EuroLeague’s all-time leading scorer Mike James, Diggins-Smith highlighted her talent and experience. She surpassed Temeka Johnson to move into 15th place on the WNBA’s all-time assist list and became the 34th player in league history to score 4,500 points or more.

“We didn’t even mention that in the locker room,” Nneka Ogwumike said, per Dylan Ackermann of The Seattle Times. “Those are two milestones we should have mentioned. It’s no surprise. I’m just really, really happy to be on this team when she achieved those two milestones.”

Diggins-Smith's milestones came during a pivotal game for the Storm. Led by Ogwumike’s 24 points and 13 rebounds, just two points shy of her season high, and Jewell Loyd’s explosive second half, the Storm secured an 84-71 victory over the Sky.

The win marked a turnaround for the Storm, who had an eight-game home winning streak snapped by the Sky on July 5. Seattle knew that regaining their momentum required more than just winning the rebounding battle; it required grit. Angel Reese of the Sky also made history, becoming the first player in WNBA history with 13 consecutive double-doubles, tallying 17 points and 14 rebounds in the game.

“Congratulations to her,” Storm coach Noelle Quinn said. “What she’s been doing her first year in the league is obviously legendary.”

As the league leader in both offensive and total rebounds, Reese's presence demanded a collective effort from the Storm.

“We have to gang rebound,” Quinn said. “A player like that who just goes to the glass with heart, desire, athleticism, strength, it’s hard to neutralize.”

Despite the challenges, Diggins-Smith inspired the team and the crowd. Early in the second quarter, her back-to-back threes ignited a rally that gave the Storm their first lead of the game. Her leadership on the court was evident as she orchestrated plays and kept the team focused.

Ogwumike praised her teammate, saying, “She’s the general. Coach’s nickname for her is ‘Deebo.’ She’s really like the muscle and brain of the team. That’s a huge asset to have, especially as someone who plays point guard in this league.”

Quinn added, “Her passion to play the game gives us a lot of energy on both sides of the court. Whether it’s her getting a bucket or finding her teammates, she reads the game well. Her competitive nature, her dog, all those things give us a lot of confidence.”

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