Storms Triumph in Vancouver: WNBA Makes History with Epic Game

Seattle Storm Shocks Atlanta Dream in Vancouver in Historic WNBA Game

In a historic encounter for the WNBA, the Seattle Storm defeated the Atlanta Dream with a score of 80-78 in Vancouver, Canada, in the first regular season game outside the United States. The atmosphere in Rogers Arena, with almost 16,000 fans, was electrifying, marking a milestone for the league. Despite the Atlanta Dream officially being the home team, the Vancouver fans’ support was key to the Storm’s victory. This triumph ended the Dream’s six-game winning streak and broke the Storm’s six-game losing streak, the longest streaks in the league at the time.

“It was an incredible crowd tonight. First time in Vancouver, they showed a lot of love. We love coming here and playing in front of this electric fanbase. I know it was a Dream home game, but it felt like a Storm home game. We really leaned on them tonight to secure that win.”

Skylar Diggins, Seattle Storm player

The game was crucial for both teams in their fight for a playoff spot. The Dream tied with the New York Liberty for second place in the standings, while the Storm, who had had a fluctuating performance, needed the win to stay in contention. The game was full of excitement, with the Dream leading at times and the Storm coming back in the last quarter, thanks to the outstanding performance of Skylar Diggins and the defense of Ezi Magbegor, who made three crucial blocks.

“It felt like a home game for Seattle, honestly.”

Rhyne Howard, Atlanta Dream player

The importance of the game transcended the result, as it expanded the reach of the WNBA. The atmosphere was vibrant, with enthusiastic fans demonstrating their passion for women’s basketball. This was the second consecutive year that the Storm played in Canada, following a preseason game in Edmonton in May 2024.

“We are grateful to be in this region. That we can play the international games in Canada and that we are also the first international game in the regular season, demonstrates the growth of this league.”

Nneka Ogwumike, Seattle Storm player

Next year, regular season games in Canada won’t be a novelty, as the Toronto Tempo will join the WNBA as an expansion team in 2026. During Friday’s game, Toronto team president Teresa Resch and general manager Monica Wright Rogers announced that the Tempo will play two regular season games in Vancouver next season.