The LA Sparks ended their three-game losing streak with an 89-72 victory over the Portland Fire on Sunday night, fueled by a commanding presence in the paint.
Throughout the game, Portland focused heavily on double-teaming Sparks guard Kelsey Plum, the WNBA’s top scorer, effectively limiting her from attempting a single shot in the first half. However, this intense defensive attention inadvertently created opportunities for the Sparks’ other players, who capitalized on open shots and second-chance points that the Fire struggled to defend.
Plum and Sparks Exploit Defensive Pressure
With the Fire’s defense fixated on the four-time All-Star, the rest of the Sparks’ offense flourished. Recognizing a numerical advantage, Plum orchestrated plays that exploited Portland’s gaps, encouraging her teammates to aggressively attack the mismatches.
Nneka Ogwumike and Dearica Hamby stepped up decisively. Ogwumike posted 20 points along with a season-best 17 rebounds, while Hamby led the game in scoring with 22 points and contributed 12 rebounds. Hamby’s six offensive rebounds matched her career high, and together, the two amassed 12 offensive boards, setting a WNBA record for teammates each recording at least six offensive rebounds in a single contest, according to Sparks PR.
Meanwhile, Plum maintained composure during the first half despite being tightly guarded, finding her rhythm after halftime. Returning recently from a right ankle injury, she finished with 16 points on 50% shooting, seven assists, and six rebounds. Plum’s nine points in the third quarter ignited a crucial 14-4 run that helped seal the Sparks’ advantage.