Seattle Storm’s Nneka Ogwumike has once again proven why she remains a dominant force in the WNBA, securing the Western Conference Player of the Week award for the week spanning June 16 to June 22, 2025. The veteran forward led the Storm to an undefeated 3-0 record during this period, showcasing an incredible blend of scoring, defense, and leadership that has the team surging in the Western Conference standings.
Ogwumike’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. Averaging a league-high 25.7 points per game, she also contributed 8 rebounds, 2.3 steals, and 2.3 assists on average. Her shooting was remarkably efficient, hitting 71.4% of her field goals (35-for-49), 41.7% from beyond the arc (5-for-12), and maintaining a perfect 100% on free throws (2-for-2). These stats underscore her offensive prowess and ability to impact the game in multiple facets.
The week began with a commanding 98-67 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks on June 17. Ogwumike scored 26 points and swiped three steals, setting the tone for the Storm’s dominant stretch. She followed that up with a gritty double-double on June 20 against the Las Vegas Aces, tallying 25 points and 12 rebounds in a hard-fought 90-83 win. The week closed with another 26-point effort in a thrilling 86-79 victory over the defending WNBA champion New York Liberty on June 22.
Her extraordinary week wasn’t just about the numbers; it was also historic. Ogwumike tied Sylvia Fowles’ record for the longest streak of games scoring at least 25 points while shooting 65% or better from the field, accomplishing this feat in three consecutive games. This achievement places her among the elite scorers in WNBA history.
Beyond scoring, Ogwumike reached several career milestones that highlight her all-around excellence. She passed Tina Thompson to move into fourth place on the WNBA’s all-time field goals made list, and also climbed to ninth on the all-time rebounding list, surpassing Thompson once again. On the defensive end, she moved into sixth place on the all-time steals list, overtaking notable players Sancho Lyttle and Jia Perkins. Additionally, she recorded her 250th career block, making her only the fourth player in WNBA history to accumulate at least 600 steals and 250 blocks.
At 34 years old and standing 6-foot-2, Ogwumike is in her second season with the Seattle Storm, and her impact is undeniable. This Player of the Week honor marks the 15th of her illustrious career and her first since joining the Storm. She is the 10th player in franchise history to receive this weekly accolade, which is the 44th such honor for the team overall.
The Storm, currently holding a 9-5 record, have been on a tear lately, winning six of their last seven games. Their recent success has them positioned third in the Western Conference, trailing the first-place Minnesota Lynx (12-1) by just three and a half games. Notably, the Lynx’s only loss this season came at the hands of the Storm, underscoring Seattle’s potential to challenge for the top spot.
Looking ahead, the Storm hosted the Indiana Fever on the evening of June 24, with star guard Caitlin Clark leading the visitors. This matchup promises to be a compelling test for Seattle as they aim to maintain their momentum. Following that, the Storm are slated to face the Connecticut Sun at Climate Pledge Arena on June 27, another crucial contest as the season progresses.
Ogwumike’s leadership and stellar play are key reasons the Storm remain a formidable contender in the WNBA’s competitive Western Conference. Her ability to score efficiently, rebound tenaciously, and defend aggressively makes her a rare talent who continues to elevate her team. The Storm’s fans have plenty to cheer about as their team looks to build on this impressive run.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Ogwumike and the Seattle Storm to see if they can sustain their winning ways and climb higher in the standings. With Ogwumike firing on all cylinders, the Storm are well-positioned to make a deep playoff push and perhaps contend for another championship title.
