A Promising Start
Zia Cooke has turned the opening stretch of the WNBA season into a showcase of efficiency, delivering 64 of her 90 points in just five home games and averaging 10.0 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.6 assists from the bench.
Her aggressive style and relentless defensive pressure have earned praise from teammates, with guard Jordan Horston noting a new level of confidence that is instantly visible on the court.
Coach‑Player Synergy
Head coach Sonia Raman’s positive and understanding approach creates an environment where Cooke can thrive, and the coach routinely calls on Cooke early in games, making her one of the first players off the bench.
Mental Preparation Fuels Confidence
Cooke credits much of her growth to a deliberate mental routine cultivated during the offseason in Athletes Unlimited, where she spends time reading, reflecting and discussing life with her family.
Her defensive instincts are described by forward Jade Melbourne as being “like a dog on defense,” a testament to the intensity she brings to every possession.
Beyond the numbers, Cooke’s partnership with Raman has been pivotal; the coach’s supportive mindset allows Cooke to focus on her strengths while the Storm prepare to test their early chemistry on the road.
The roster also features veterans such as Ariel Atkins and Tina Charles, and upcoming matchups in Los Angeles and Nashville will challenge the Storm’s momentum against the Lakers and the Mystics.