Los Angeles, CA – Candace Parker drops 19 points to lead the Los Angeles Sparks over Minnesota Lynx 77-69 at Staples Center Sunday June 3, 2018.
The battle of the best two teams in WNBA lived up to its National TV hype. They have faced each other in last 10 games in the finals.
“We bring out the best in each other,” said Parker, “We know each other’s (Lynx) game so well.”
There are so many story lines in action pack, star filled game, but for today defense was the key for the Sparks.
“We focus on defense,” said Nneka Ogwemike, “We want to make it difficult on everyone.”
This was oh so true holding Lynx center Sylvia Folwles to just 2 points in the second half, while she finished with 14 points, and 8 rebounds.
Ogwemike was assigned to guard Folwles and put offense on the back burner. She didn’t score her first basket till 1:53 left in the half. Shooting 50% from the field she finished with 12 points, 4 rebounds and 3 steals.
The game had a great tempo with both teams playing both sides of the ball. The Sparks outshot the Lynx 51.6% to 47.3%.
Lynx Maya Moore lead her team with 18 points but only one assists on the night.
Alana Beard took on the challenge of covering Moore all over the court looking to slow her down any chance she got.
“You come in and do your part,” said Beard.
This game is a step in the right direction for the Sparks in making sure at end of year they own the tie breakers etc so they can have one of the top two spots.
Now the Sparks will host a dangers Seattle Storm team Thursday June 7 at Staples Center.
