The Seattle Storm are preparing for a critical matchup against the Las Vegas Aces on Sunday as part of the 2025 WNBA Commissioner’s Cup. Veteran guard Alysha Clark is listed as questionable for the game due to a left ankle injury, raising concerns about her availability in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. This Alysha Clark injury update comes at a pivotal time as the Storm aim to regain momentum following consecutive defeats.
Injury Concerns Impact Seattle’s Lineup for Key Game
Alysha Clark, who has been a consistent presence for the Storm this season, is doubtful for Sunday’s contest against the Aces because of an ankle injury. This will mark her second straight game missed, breaking her streak of appearances which included playing every game over the past two seasons. At 37, Clark is the oldest active player in the WNBA, and the recurrence of injuries could affect her role in stabilizing the Storm’s backcourt during critical moments.
In addition to Clark’s injury, Seattle is also dealing with the absence of Katie Lou Samuelson, sidelined for the season due to a knee injury. The loss of these key players challenges the Storm’s depth and experience, particularly against a formidable Las Vegas squad eager to even the score after an earlier-season loss.
Seattle Storm’s Early Season Performance and Setback
The Storm began their 2025 campaign with a strong statement, surprising many by defeating the Las Vegas Aces decisively with a 102-82 win in their first meeting. Nneka Ogwumike led the charge with 23 points, 6 assists, and 8 rebounds, while Skylar Diggins contributed 10 points and 8 assists, providing solid support. Erica Wheeler added a season-high 21 points and 7 assists, helping the Storm build a dominant performance.
However, since that triumph, Seattle’s fortunes have reversed. The team suffered back-to-back losses against the Minnesota Lynx and Atlanta Dream, causing questions about whether their early success was sustainable. Meanwhile, the Aces have reestablished their dominance with a commanding win over the Los Angeles Sparks, highlighting their return to form.
Significance of the Commissioner’s Cup in the 2025 Season
The Commissioner’s Cup, running from June 1 through July 1, is an in-season tournament where teams compete within their conference for a chance to compete in a final between the top performers from each side. Beyond pride, the Cup offers a substantial financial incentive, with a $500,000 prize pool motivating players in a league where salaries remain modest.
For the Seattle Storm, the Cup presents an opportunity not only to reset after recent setbacks but also to reaffirm their standing as title contenders. Their upcoming rematch with the Aces, the defending champions, will test their resilience and ability to perform under pressure, especially if they face the game without Clark’s veteran leadership.
Seattle’s Injury List Ahead of Sunday’s Clash
In the latest injury report from the Seattle Storm, Alysha Clark remains questionable with a left ankle injury. Katie Lou Samuelson is confirmed out for the season due to a knee injury, which leaves the team thin on experienced wing players. The absence of these athletes complicates Seattle’s strategy, requiring role players to step up in critical roles.
Clark’s availability is particularly crucial given her role in guiding the team’s guard play and maintaining composure when games become intense. Her uncertain status introduces an element of unpredictability as the Storm prepare to host a motivated Las Vegas team.
Challenges Facing Seattle as They Aim to Repeat Their Upset
The Storm’s initial 20-point victory over the Aces was unexpected, marked by strong leadership from Jewell Loyd and Nneka Ogwumike, who delivered key offensive contributions. Defensively, Seattle disrupted the Aces’ rhythm effectively, forcing turnovers and limiting the impact of Las Vegas’s dynamic backcourt.
The ability to contain A’ja Wilson was a highlight of that win, as she was held to 15 points and 4 assists, her lowest output of the season. However, Wilson responded strongly in her next performance with a 35-point game against the Sparks, signaling the challenge the Storm will face on Sunday.
Coming off two losses, Seattle must regain confidence and intensity to stand a chance against a team that has sharpened its form. How they respond will reveal much about their season’s trajectory amid this crucial stretch of competition.
Coach Noelle Quinn’s Perspective on the Team’s Goals and the Cup
Head coach Noelle Quinn, who has a history of success with the Storm including leading them to victory in the inaugural Commissioner’s Cup Final in 2021, stressed the importance of the tournament. That historic win over the Connecticut Sun was a defining moment for the team and highlighted the Cup’s significance as more than just an in-season contest.
“Our team has talked about it as a group. It’s a goal of ours to be in the Commissioner’s Cup title game, It is something that is beneficial for the players, not only monetarily, but also it’s an indicator of where you are in the league.” —Noelle Quinn, Head Coach
In 2024, the Storm came close again, finishing tied atop the Western Conference with the Minnesota Lynx but missing out on the final due to a tiebreaker. That near miss remains a motivating factor for the current squad as they pursue the title this season.
Looking Ahead: What the Upcoming Game Means for Seattle
With the Commissioner’s Cup points at stake and the opportunity to prove their mettle against the reigning champions, the Storm’s game against the Aces holds significant weight. A victory, particularly if achieved without the steadying presence of Alysha Clark, would demonstrate the team’s depth and resilience.
Conversely, a loss could deepen doubts following their recent slump, putting additional pressure on key players who remain healthy to elevate their performances. How the Storm navigate this challenge will influence their standing in the tournament and shape their confidence heading into the summer.
The inclusion of Alysha Clark in the lineup remains uncertain, but her veteran experience will be missed if she cannot play. The team must rally behind other leaders like Nneka Ogwumike, Jewell Loyd, and Erica Wheeler to maintain momentum and challenge the Aces once more.
Ultimately, this Alysha Clark injury update for Seattle Storm versus Aces offers insight into the physical challenges the team faces and underscores the competitive intensity of the WNBA’s evolving season.