9 p.m. at Los Angeles, ESPN2, 106.1-FM
Lynx update: The Lynx have won three games in a row and seven of eight entering this one against the rejuvenated Sparks. The Lynx, who have won three consecutive games in Staples Center dating back to last season, beat the Sparks in Target Center Wednesday despite Los Angeles' impressive offensive efficiency. The Lynx own the league's best road record (7-2) and have won three in a row on the road. F Maya Moore has scored 20 or more points in 11 straight games, within two of tying Diana Taurasi's record of 13 set over the final 12 games of the 2006 season and the first game of the 2007 season. C Sylvia Fowles has averaged 24.3 minutes, 14 points and 6.3 rebounds in three games with the Lynx. G Lindsay Whalen has averaged 17.0 points and 3.7 assists in three games since returning from an eye injury.
Sparks update: The Sparks pushed the Lynx to the end last Wednesday at Target Center, with forward Candace Parker in the lineup for the first time this year and with guard Alana Beard in the lineup for the first time since the second game. Since then the Sparks have won two straight games, both on the road, their first road victories of the season. The Sparks are showing signs of becoming the threat their roster suggests they should be. Los Angeles averaged 70.2 points without Parker, 81.3 in the three games since she returned. As a team the Sparks have shot 44.1 percent this season, but 52.7 percent the last three games; their 56.4 percent shooting here last Wednesday was the highest by a Lynx opponent this season. Parker has averaged 20 points nine rebounds and six assists since her return. C Jantel Lavender has scored in double figures in six consecutive games, shooting 56.6 percent in that time.
