Los Angeles, CA – The Los Angeles Sparks take control of the game and never look back as they defeated the Las Vegas Aces 87-71 Sunday afternoon at Staples Center.
The Sparks jumped out to 30-20 lead over the Aces in the first quarter of play.
Gray and Jantel Lavender used their hot first half scoring double digits that lead to 22 point lead at the half.
“Our aggressiveness and our start was unbelievable, it set the tone for the game,” said Lavender, “We wanted to make her (Wilson) game tough.
Las Vegas had just handled the Sparks two nights ago in Vegas 97-78 behind A’ja Wilson.
Aces offense kept trying to find Wilson but the denial defense was too strong. Being a younger play not in an offensive flow could have contributed to her early foul trouble in first half.
“We congested her,” said Candace Parker, “Nneka played good defense on the elbow.”
Wilson still finished the game with 10 points despite playing limited minutes.
So whether it was the Sparks defense behind Ogwumike and Parker or three fouls being on the bench it worked.
The Sparks always have better offense when the play defense first and at one point the team was shooting over 70% from the field.
“We got off to a great start with great energy,” said coach Brian Agler.
In the fourth quarter with 2:32 left the game Agler called off the dogs with 84-67 lead bring in the subs off the bench.
As the season continues to move forward the Sparks protecting home has been key to keeping their record near the top.
“We are just trying to get every win we can,” said Agler.
Now the Sparks will sleep in their homes and be ready for Tuesday matchup against the Connecticut Sun. So the Ogwumike sisters will face off for first time this season.
