INDIANAPOLIS — Kelsey Plum scored 21 points and contributed six assists, helping the Los Angeles Sparks snap a four-game losing streak with an 85-75 victory over the Indiana Fever on Thursday night. Azura Stevens led the Sparks with 23 points, while key plays down the stretch secured the win for Los Angeles in this competitive matchup.
Key Moments Determine the Outcome in Close Contest
The Fever competed without Caitlin Clark, who was sidelined due to a groin injury after recently returning from a quad injury that had kept her out for five games. Clark had made a strong comeback on June 14, scoring 32 points in a 102-88 victory against the New York Liberty.
Late in the game, Plum’s clutch 3-pointer with 4:13 remaining put the Sparks ahead 67-66, marking their first lead since early in the second quarter. She followed up with two free throws during the next possession, capping a 21-8 run that spanned the third quarter break and shifted momentum decisively to Los Angeles.
In the final minute, crucial offensive rebounds helped the Sparks maintain their edge. Dearica Hamby was fouled while scoring a layup to extend the lead to 79-75. Although Hamby missed the resulting free throw, Azura Stevens recovered the ball and completed a three-point play, pushing the score to 81-75 with 49 seconds left.
Player Contributions Highlight Each Team’s Efforts
Alongside Plum and Stevens, Hamby and Rickea Jackson each added 14 points for the Sparks, whose record improved to 5-11. On the Indiana side, Kelsey Mitchell led with 20 points, supported by Aliyah Boston’s double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds, as well as five steals.
The Fever began strong, leading 31-22 before an 8-0 run by the Sparks narrowed the deficit. Shey Peddy’s three-pointer brought Los Angeles within one point, but Sophie Cunningham responded with a three-pointer, helping Indiana carry a 34-30 advantage into halftime after forcing 15 turnovers.
Implications for Both Teams Moving Forward
This Kelsey Plum Sparks victory game not only halted the Sparks’ losing streak but also demonstrated their ability to execute in critical moments despite struggles earlier in the season. For Indiana, missing Caitlin Clark remains a challenge, yet the team showed resilience that will be important as they aim to climb higher in the standings. The Sparks will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming games as they pursue a stronger position in the league.