Los Angeles, CA – In a complete 180° turn from last Thursday night against the Connecticut Sun, the LA Sparks snapped their six-game losing streak against the Seattle Storm 81–53 on Sunday evening to remain in playoff contention.
“I think today the way we came out, we showed the game respect. We showed our opponent’s respect. Not to say that we haven’t before, but in a way where you compete the whole time no matter what the outcome is,” said Nneka Ogwumike.
The LA Sparks completely dominated the Storm in their final home game of the regular season at Staples Center.
The Sparks came out aggressive from the jump and led by as many as 30 points.
They shot 48% from the field (30/62 FGs) and 93% (15/16) from the line.
“We shot the ball well tonight. We saw the ball go in early. I think that helped our confidence. But it really did look like a team. Like eight players rowing in the same direction. That helps,” said Head Coach Derek Fisher.
Guards Te’a Cooper and Erica Wheeler were putting the Storm on skates with their lethal crossovers.
Cooper led all players with 19 points (7/13 FGs), 2 assists, and 2 steals. This is her 11th game that she has scored in double figures this season.
“I think the last few games I wasn’t really feeling like myself. I had next game mentality. I had to shake it off. I got back in the gym. Refocused. And I just came out with a better mindset. Ready to play,” said Cooper.
The Storm tried to make a run in the second quarter, but active hands by the Sparks allowed them to keep their distance to stretch the lead 18 at the half 45-27.
The LA Sparks held the Storm to a season low in points at 53.
Storm Star Forward Breanna Stewart was missing in action as she was sidelined with a left foot injury.
The Sparks have two games remaining in their regular season.
“I’m just really happy for our players, and for the fans and the people that came out tonight,” said Coach Fisher. “It’s been a really up and down season. Lots of injuries. We started our home regular season in another building. I’m just really happy for our players to get a chance to finish their home regular season this way. And what that feels like when things do come together for you. We’ll enjoy this one tonight and then we’ll start to prepare ourselves for Atlanta.”
The LA Sparks travel on the road against the Atlanta Dream on Thursday, September 16th at 4pm.
