Los Angeles, Ca – Oh what a night the Los Angeles Sparks defeat the New York Liberty 100-77. The Sparks defense and pace of play was the key. No Liberty starters scored in double figures in the game. This year Coach Agler has a full team to start the season and it shows.
The Sparks started the game strong scoring 27 points in first quarter on their way to the century mark. They hadn’t scored over 100 points in a game since the 2014 season. How fitting that the hundred point of the game was made at the free throw line by Jantel Lavender. Lavender lead the Sparks with a game high 22 points. “I’m finding my place off the bench to score.”, said Lavender on her new role.
They had five players score in double figures Kristi Tolver 19 points, Nneka Ogwumike 18 points & 10 rebounds, Essence Carson 15 points. Look who’s missing from scoring double digits, the star Candace Parker who only need 5 points, 5 rebounds in the win.
Tonight was a statement game by the Sparks to the WNBA that they are poised and ready to go. It didn’t matter who was their opponent on the court. The Sparks keeping the record unblemished to start the season now 8-0 after the win. Last season after eight games team was 0-8 then got first win in 9th game of season.
New York’s leading scorer Shavonte Zellous finished with 12 points off the bench. They shot 42.6% from the field which was not enough. They were out scored in the paint by 40 to 30 points by the Sparks. The Sparks also dominated fast break points 13-0.
This Sparks team is playing as a team for Agler, who knows how far they can go. Even at halftime they were celebrating by having their new banners re-revealed from 2001 & 2002 Championships teams. They will play in Dallas on Saturday, June 11 against the Dallas Wings at 5:30pm.
