Phoenix Stages Comeback from 18-Point Deficit to Defeat the LA Sparks

Dearica Hamby from the LA Sparks attempts a shot over Kathryn Westbeld of the Phoenix Mercury. Photo by Nicholai Roska for Tangent Zine.

At the start of Sunday's game, the LA Sparks took control over Phoenix, building an 18-point lead at one stage with their assertive play and momentum. However, the Mercury regained their form in the third quarter, turning the tables and securing an 85-80 win.

Odyssey Sims dominated the first half, contributing 17 of her total 32 points. Kelsey Plum demonstrated her versatility by playing the entire 40 minutes, scoring 25 points, and reaching her 500th career 3-pointer. Azura Stevens scored 23 points and secured a game-high of 17 rebounds, while Dearica Hamby ended the game with 15 points, eight rebounds, and two assists.

In the second half, the Phoenix Mercury ignited, outscoring the Sparks 24-7 in the third quarter to shift the game's momentum. They tightened their defense, leading the Sparks to miss the majority of their field goals and three-point attempts, ultimately finishing the game 8 out of 35 from beyond the arc.

Kathryn Westbeld of the Phoenix Mercury defends Azura Stevens of the LA Sparks, with her hand in Stevens' face. Photo by Nicholai Roska for Tangent Zine.

Satou Sabally was the top scorer for Phoenix, contributing 24 points, nine rebounds, and four steals, while Kathryn Westbeld and Kitija Laksa both added 15 points each.

Although the Phoenix Mercury gained momentum in the second half, Los Angeles managed to narrow Mercury's lead to one point. Trailing 80-78, they had three opportunities to score, but Plum missed a 3-pointer and a jumper from the free-throw line before losing the ball on a drive into the lane. With 1:06 remaining in the fourth quarter, Los Angeles guard Kelsey Plum forced a jump ball, allowing the Sparks to gain possession.

With 18.9 seconds remaining, Laksa scored two free throws for Phoenix, and Westbeld added another two at 9.9 seconds, securing an 84-80 lead.

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Phoenix will continue its road trip on Tuesday at Minnesota. Los Angeles has a break until Friday when it faces Dallas.