SEATTLE - In the preseason opener for both teams, the Seattle Storm beat the Phoenix Mercury 73-69. Breanna Stewart and Jewell Loyd scored 15 points apiece, and Sue Bird added 10 points.
Top draft pick Jordin Canada played a strong opening game scoring 15 points with three assists and five steals. The Storm forced 22 Phoenix turnovers resulting in 18 points.
The Mercury were without center Brittney Griner and guard Diana Taurasi. The Mercury's top draft pick, center Marie Gulich out of Oregon State, scored 10 points and pulled six rebounds.
Seattle travels to Phoenix on Saturday for a preseason rematch against the Mercury.
