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Early returns on the WNBA 24-second shot clock are coming in at a rapid pace -- at least when it comes to scoring.
After just 12 games, teams have topped the 100-point mark once and scored more than 90 three times. There were only five 90-plus contests last year in all 221 regular-season games -- the first not until a month into the season -- and no team reached the century mark.
"You're seeing more possessions," says Seattle Storm coach Anne Donovan, whose team scored 90 points in its season opener. "Teams are getting the opportunity to shoot the ball more. And it's also a reflection that we're getting better, every year we're getting better. There's more depth on teams; there's more players who can be the go-to scorer."
Going into Wednesday's game, the scoring average was up seven points, with teams scoring 74.3 a contest. Last year teams scored 67.3 points a game. Winning teams this year are averaging 82.6 a game; the defending champion Sacramento Monarchs have put up 90.5 a game in their two wins.
"We always want to shoot it quick," Sacramento coach John Whisenant says. "We use our defense to create scoring opportunities ... and the six less seconds has probably helped us defensively. The 24-second shot clock forces you to be more precise, efficient in your halfcourt execution.
"The coaches who have talented one-on-one players were pushing for it," Whisenant says. "Though it's early, it may make someone step up and be that kind of player. It's good for the fans."
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