Phoenix Mercury Edges Los Angeles Sparks in Consecutive Close Losses

The Los Angeles Sparks have struggled in recent games, dropping consecutive matches against the Phoenix Mercury and Golden State Valkyries, extending their losing streak to three. Despite solid individual performances, including Kelsey Plum's 25 points and Azurá Stevens' 23 points with 17 rebounds against Phoenix, the Sparks were hampered by poor shooting, high turnovers, and a slow start after halftime in both games. Injuries continue to affect the team, with key players like Rickea Jackson, Cameron Brink, and Rae Burrell sidelined. The Sparks showed resilience, mounting comebacks in the fourth quarter of both contests, but ultimately fell short due to opponents' effective execution and clutch free throws in the final minutes. Coach Lynne Roberts acknowledged the team's struggles with execution and decision-making under pressure, emphasizing the need to improve offensive consistency and teamwork. The Mercury maintained an undefeated start to their season, capitalizing on Sparks' turnovers and defensive lapses, while the Valkyries limited Plum's scoring compared to her season opener, contributing to Los Angeles' recent defeats.