Dolson’s determination
Whether or not the Chicago Sky reach the playoffs this year, Stefanie Dolson is proving that she can be a franchise cornerstone. The fourth-year forward out of UConn scored a career-high 29 points on Friday, hitting 13 of 21 shots. However, her performance wasn’t enough to stop the Phoenix Mercury from picking up an 86-80 road win.
Dolson is one of several examples of the “stretch four” that permeates basketball’s modern era, with the ability to knock down shots from almost anywhere. A consistent shooter from the floor and free throw line, Dolson has potential to further her evolution as her career continues.
However, Phoenix got full credit with the win, and Cayla George was a deciding factor. The native of Australia notched her first career double-double with 14 points and 14 rebounds, helping the Mercury end a four-game losing streak. Bryce Marsee, the Mercury’s communications manager, pointed out how big George’s surprise was:
In the last 9 @PhoenixMercury games, @CaylaGeorge22 combined for 12 pts & 9 rebs. Tonight she finished with 14 pts and 14 rebs at Chicago.
— Bryce Marsee (@BrycePHX) July 29, 2017
More importantly for Phoenix, the victory brought them within a game of Washington for the fourth playoff seed, which carries a first-round bye.