On Thursday, Sue Bird practiced with the Storm for the first time since suffering back spasms on Sunday at Tulsa, going through a light session that involved shooting and a walk-through in preparation for Saturday’s game at Los Angeles.

“I feel better,” said Bird. “Every day it’s gotten better, and that’s all I can ask for.”

Bird felt like the decision to sit out Tuesday’s win over San Antonio paid off. She was able to get an additional day of rest as the Storm took Wednesday off to continue moving in a positive direction.

“Unfortunately, with this the slightest thing can set you off,” she said. “It really helps to not be too physical and not be hit, just do my rehab and go from there. I feel much better now than I did two days ago.

“I still have two more days (until the Storm’s next game). Two days makes a world of difference.”

The Storm is being cautious in dealing with Bird’s back. Head Coach Brian Agler pointed out at Tuesday’s game that the Storm doesn’t want to deal with the injury all season long. Yet teammate Lauren Jackson is excited at the prospect of getting Bird back on the floor.

“I want her to play,” said Jackson. “If it’s going to jeopardize herself, obviously then we want her to rest as long as possible to get it right, but me personally I miss her so much. I miss playing with her. T (Tanisha Wright) has been great, but Sue Bird is a legend in my eyes, so I love her out there.”