A Close Call: Sparks Edge Fever in Tight WNBA Showdown

The Los Angeles Sparks pulled off a nail-biting victory against the Indiana Fever, securing their second win in nine days. Azura Stevens stood out with 21 points and 12 rebounds, while Kelsey Plum contributed 20 points. The game was a rollercoaster, with both teams trading leads and the Sparks' largest advantage being just three points in the first quarter. The Fever, playing without Caitlin Clark due to a groin injury, had been on a hot streak, winning three games, including the Commissioner's Cup. However, their luck ran out this time. The Sparks' Dearica Hamby added 18 points, and Rickea Jackson chipped in with 15, including a crucial go-ahead basket late in the game. The Fever's last-ditch efforts fell short as they missed their final five shots, with Aliyah Boston's missed shot from the top of the key sealing their fate. Boston led Indiana with 23 points and 12 rebounds, while Natasha Howard had 21 points and nine rebounds. Howard also reached a career milestone, surpassing 2, 000 rebounds. The first half was evenly matched, with nine ties and nine lead changes. Kelsey Mitchell had 13 points, and Plum added 11. The Fever took a slight lead into halftime but couldn't maintain it. The Sparks' victory sets them up for their next challenge against the Minnesota Lynx at home.