Mercury Rally from 18 Down to Defeat Sparks 85-80

LOS ANGELES, CA — Satou Sabally scored 24 points and grabbed nine rebounds to lead the Phoenix Mercury to an 85-80 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks on Sunday.

The Mercury overcame an 18-point deficit in the first half. Midway through the third quarter, Kathryn Westbeld hit a critical 3-pointer to give Phoenix its first lead since early in the game.

Westbeld’s shot came at 2:11 left in the third, making the score 58-57. The Mercury capped a 23-7 run fueled by strong contributions from Sabally and Westbeld. Kitija Laksa also scored 15 points for Phoenix.

In the game’s final minute, Los Angeles guard Kelsey Plum forced a jump ball, but the Sparks struggled to capitalize. They had three opportunities to tie the game, but Plum missed a 3-pointer and a jumper from the free-throw line.

With 18.9 seconds remaining, Laksa converted two free throws, extending Phoenix’s lead to 84-80. Westbeld followed suit with another pair of free throws, sealing the victory.

Sami Whitcomb provided key support, making three 3-pointers and finishing with 11 points. Monique Akoa Makani added 10 points and six assists for the Mercury, improving their record to 5-2.

Odyssey Sims led the Sparks with 32 points on 10-of-14 shooting. Plum struggled, going 4 of 19 from the field for 15 points, while Dearica Hamby contributed 15 points and eight rebounds.

Los Angeles, which had a strong first-half lead of 47-29, faltered after halftime, missing all 15 attempted 3-pointers following the break. The Sparks now hold a 2-6 record.

Next up, the Mercury will continue their road trip against Minnesota on Tuesday. The Sparks will be off until Friday when they face Dallas.