Stewart posts eighth double-double of season, but Storm lose to Fever

 

SEATTLE - Rookie forward Breanna Stewart pitched in 32 points, 11 rebounds and five assists, but the Seattle Storm lost 93-82 to the Indiana Fever on Sunday.

In its fourth game in six days, the Storm took control in the second quarter, outscoring the Fever 32-19 to take a lead into halftime. Indiana was dominant in the second half, however, as six different players finished in double figures.

Stewart shot 11-for-15 Sunday night, including 4-for-5 from three-point range en route to her 32 points. It was the second 30-point game of the season and eighth double-double for the two-time Rookie of the Month. Alysha Clark added 11 points, while Jewell Loyd and Ramu Tokashiki scored 10 apiece.

Fever forward Tamika Catchings, who announced she is retiring after the season, had 15 points and four steals in her final contest against the Storm. Shenise Johnson led the way with 18 points for Indiana, which shot 58.1 percent on the night.

The Storm drops to 7-13, while Indiana increases its lead in the standings with a 9-11 record.

Catchings had five quick points to start the game, coming on a three-pointer and a pair of free throws, as part of an 11-2 start for the Fever. Indiana would maintain a comfortable edge for most of the quarter, but reserves Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis and Tokashiki scored five and six points in the period, respectively, to keep Seattle within striking distance. Indiana pounded the ball inside for seven early points from Erlana Larkins.