The Seattle Storm talked all season about focusing on preparing to win a championship by getting through the playoffs and it looks like they’ve accomplished that so far…partially.

The Storm have shot 60%, but are only ahead 11 partially because the Sparks are still able to work the ball around the court and slow the Storm down but also partially because they’re doing a solid job keeping the Storm off the offensive boards.

The huge key for the Storm thus far has been Swin Cash and Jana Vesela — Cash just outworking the Sparks in getting up and down the floor and converting strong at the rim and rookie forward Vesela shooting 3-3 from behind the arc. Tina Thompson has 10 for the Sparks and Kristi Toliver also came off the bench for 10 points and 2-2 shooting from the three point line.

Sue Bird tied a WNBA record with 9 first half assists.

To follow the game, check out the game thread at SBN’s Swish Appeal.