Sparks Secure First Win of the Season Against Toronto Tempo in a Close Finish
Sparks Secure Their First Win with a Thrilling 99-95 Victory Over Toronto Tempo
In a much-anticipated matchup, the Los Angeles Sparks achieved their first victory of the season, edging out the expansion Toronto Tempo 99-95 in a closely contested game on Friday night.
The Sparks displayed their strongest offensive performance thus far, with all five starters contributing double-digit scores and the team shooting an impressive 63.8% from the field. Despite their efforts, the Tempo remained formidable, closing the gap to just two points late in the game. A subsequent missed three-point attempt by Marina Mabrey allowed the Sparks to maintain a narrow lead aided by a couple of late fouls from the Tempo.
Kelsey Plum led the Sparks with an impressive 27 points and nine assists, nearly earning a double-double. Nneka Ogwumike added 20 points, while Dearica Hamby contributed 19 points and grabbed seven rebounds.
Erica Wheeler, filling in for Ariel Atkins due to a concussion, also played a pivotal role, scoring 10 points and dishing out seven assists. Her performance as the primary ball handler allowed Plum to shine, helping to create a more effective offensive dynamic for the Sparks.
Toronto faced challenges on their end, competing without starting center Temi Fagbenie, and struggled against the Sparks’ strong frontcourt, which racked up 54 points in the paint.
The Sparks opened the game with a decisive 17-2 run, but the Tempo managed to rally, leading to a 46-38 score at halftime. Despite a brief surge from Toronto, led by Brittany Sykes, who scored 27 points, the Sparks ultimately held their ground.
The Tempo had recently secured their first win in franchise history against Seattle, but they faced a stronger opponent in the Sparks. Notable performances included Tempo rookie Kiki Rice, who returned to Los Angeles with 11 points after a successful national championship run with UCLA.
Cameron Brink’s contribution of 10 points was the only offensive support from the Sparks’ bench, while the Tempo reserves excelled, contributing 42 points. The game also marked Kate Martin’s Sparks debut as a developmental player in the absence of Atkins and Sania Feagin.
Looking ahead, the Sparks will face off against the Tempo again this Sunday at Crypto.com Arena.
