Sparks Keep Playoff Hopes Alive with 91-77 Win Over Dallas Wings
The Los Angeles Sparks have kept their faint playoff hopes alive after defeating the Dallas Wings 91-77 on Sunday at Crypto.com Arena. The win marks a crucial step for the Sparks as they head into the final week of the regular season. Julie Allemand had a standout performance, finishing with 21 points, a career-high five steals, and four assists, while Rae Burrell contributed 13 points to the team’s effort.
According to Allemand, the team’s strong defensive play and ability to work together as a unit were key factors in their success. “I think we stayed strong defensively, we got some steals, and then we were just running and played as a team,” Allemand said in a post-game interview. “When we play like that, I think we are unstoppable.” The Sparks’ victory was marked by a 16-0 run in the fourth quarter, which ultimately sealed their win over the Dallas Wings.
Path to the Playoffs
The Sparks, now with a 20-22 record, must win their final two games against the Phoenix Mercury and the Las Vegas Aces. Additionally, they need the Seattle Storm to lose to the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday in order to secure a spot in the postseason. The team’s chances may seem slim, but their recent performance has shown that they are capable of putting up a strong fight when it counts.
The game saw the Sparks lead for nearly the entire duration, with the team capitalizing on 10 three-pointers, 12 steals, and having six players score in double digits. Despite a strong comeback from the Dallas Wings, who went on a 19-2 run at the beginning of the third quarter and briefly took the lead twice, the Sparks managed to maintain their composure and regain control of the game.
Player Performances
Azurá Stevens had a notable performance, finishing with 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Dearica Hamby contributed 15 points and 13 rebounds. Kelsey Plum added 12 points, and Rickea Jackson scored 11 points. The Sparks’ coach, Lynn Roberts, praised Rae Burrell for her aggressiveness on the court, stating, “She’s going to fly around and make things happen. She’s so athletic, bouncy, and aggressive — that brings everyone to life.” Burrell’s 11 points in the fourth quarter were instrumental in helping the Sparks pull away from the Wings.
Dallas rookie Paige Bueckers finished with 18 points, seven assists, and six rebounds for the Wings, while Myisha Hines-Allen had 15 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists. Maddy Siegrist added 13 points and four rebounds for the team. The Wings, despite their efforts, were unable to overcome the Sparks’ strong team play and ultimately fell short with a 9-34 record.
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