The Connecticut Sun and Las Vegas Aces are both trying to win their first titles in franchise history. It would come at a very different time and place in DeWanna's life if she were to win her third championship.
"You have to take it all in, it's your third trip to the Finals, the first two ended in titles with the Phoenix Mercury," she said. I didn't know how rare it was to get back here after winning a title. I told the team that they need to try to enjoy the moment.
In the third game of the series, the Sun defeated Las Vegas 105-76. The Sun will attempt to extend the series when they host the Aces on Sunday.
The Sun will need a lot of help in avoiding elimination. She was 0-of-9 from the field in the first two games of the finals for five points. She was 18-of-15 shooting and had 18 points. She was especially active on the defensive side of the ball and shared the responsibility of guarding the red-hot Gray.
"She's hard on herself, and she's not going to let herself continue to be in a shooting slump like that," said Thomas. It was going to be a long night for the other team after she had one shot.
It was something that was expected by the coach.
When you've won two in a row and then you go to the other team's place to try to close it out, there's a force they bring. It is difficult to meet that with the same amount of force. A group that is happy with how they have played is going to be brought in.
The Sun's level of play was raised due to the impact of Bonner. The oldest player in this year's Finals is 35-year-old Bonner, who is one of two players who have won a title in the past.
The Sun scored their first lead of the game on a drive by DeWanna Bonner.
The class of 2009, highlighted by top pick Angel McCoughtry, was a success. Some people thought her build would be a problem at the pro level, but it was not. In 13 seasons, she has averaged 14.7 points, 6.2 Rebounds and 2.3 Assists She has guarded several of the league's best players.
The Sun coach said that she doesn't have to get up into some people like other defenders because she can space and gap people. The post players can be switched on by her. She can bounce back. She is so important defensively. She can be so disruptive when she has the energy.
She has a fierce competitive streak that may not be obvious with her self-effacing and humorous personality. She said she's a firm believer in ice baths now that she's older, but she's grateful that her experience has made her a better teammate.
You do have tough nights. We have a group of people who are always willing to learn. 13 years into my career, this is the most fun I've had with a team. It's a blessing to be at that point.
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