Silver Stars-Dream Preview
Posted Jun 29 2013 2:34PM
Even without second-leading scorer Sancho Lyttle, the Atlanta Dream haven't missed a beat on the way to their best start in franchise history.
The WNBA-best Dream look to remain undefeated at home and win their sixth straight win overall Sunday against a San Antonio Silver Stars team that has lost five of six.
Atlanta (9-1) has gotten some key contributions throughout its five-game winning streak since Lyttle left to play overseas for Spain's national team.
Angel McCoughtry, second in the league with 20.7 points per game, has eclipsed her scoring average in four of the five games Lyttle has been out. She finished with 21 to lead the Dream to their sixth straight win at Philips Arena on Friday with an 86-75 victory over Washington.
Atlanta has been dominant on their home floor, winning by an average of 14.3 points there.
Alex Bentley added a season-high 17 points and broke Diana Taurasi's 2006 league mark when she hit her 10th consecutive 3-point field goal with 5:02 left in the fourth quarter.
She hasn't missed from beyond the arc since the team's last loss in New York on June 9.
The Dream have scored 79.2 per game during their run, barely off from their 79.8 average with Lyttle in the lineup. Lyttle, averaging 15.4 points and a team-best 9.0 rebounds, is expected to return July 9.
"Sancho is a veteran,'' said McCoughtry, averaging 23.4 points over her last five games. "She's doing her thing in Spain, but we've been holding it down since she's been gone.''
McCoughtry and the Dream may be able to continue holding it down against the short-handed Silver Stars (3-6), who have allowed an average of 84.4 points in their last five games.
Playing without Sophia Young (knee), Becky Hammon (finger) and Jayne Appel (concussion), San Antonio fell 83-77 at home to Phoenix on Tuesday.
Shameka Christon, Danielle Adams and Danielle Robinson each had 15 points to lead the Silver Stars.
"We didn't hit the shots that we usually hit and that's an easy fix," Robinson said after the team shot 36.1 percent. "I think we played pretty well defensively, but we had a couple breakdowns here and there that cost us."
Robinson has emerged as the team's top offensive threat, averaging 17.7 points over her last three games. Adams has also come on strong by totaling 31 in her past two contests.
San Antonio, however, could have a difficult time against an Atlanta team allowing a WNBA-low 69.8 points allowed per game. The Dream also have a league-best 12.8 steals per game behind McCoughtry's league-leading 3.9.
The Silver Stars have dropped three of four in Atlanta, including a 60-57 loss in their last trip June 8, 2012.
McCoughtry led the Dream with 16 points despite 6-of-18 shooting in that meeting. She didn't play because of a left knee sprain July 13 when San Antonio defeated visiting Atlanta 91-70 behind 21 points from Jia Perkins.
Posted Jun 29 2013 2:34PM
Even without second-leading scorer Sancho Lyttle, the Atlanta Dream haven't missed a beat on the way to their best start in franchise history.
The WNBA-best Dream look to remain undefeated at home and win their sixth straight win overall Sunday against a San Antonio Silver Stars team that has lost five of six.
Atlanta (9-1) has gotten some key contributions throughout its five-game winning streak since Lyttle left to play overseas for Spain's national team.
Angel McCoughtry, second in the league with 20.7 points per game, has eclipsed her scoring average in four of the five games Lyttle has been out. She finished with 21 to lead the Dream to their sixth straight win at Philips Arena on Friday with an 86-75 victory over Washington.
Atlanta has been dominant on their home floor, winning by an average of 14.3 points there.
Alex Bentley added a season-high 17 points and broke Diana Taurasi's 2006 league mark when she hit her 10th consecutive 3-point field goal with 5:02 left in the fourth quarter.
She hasn't missed from beyond the arc since the team's last loss in New York on June 9.
The Dream have scored 79.2 per game during their run, barely off from their 79.8 average with Lyttle in the lineup. Lyttle, averaging 15.4 points and a team-best 9.0 rebounds, is expected to return July 9.
"Sancho is a veteran,'' said McCoughtry, averaging 23.4 points over her last five games. "She's doing her thing in Spain, but we've been holding it down since she's been gone.''
McCoughtry and the Dream may be able to continue holding it down against the short-handed Silver Stars (3-6), who have allowed an average of 84.4 points in their last five games.
Playing without Sophia Young (knee), Becky Hammon (finger) and Jayne Appel (concussion), San Antonio fell 83-77 at home to Phoenix on Tuesday.
Shameka Christon, Danielle Adams and Danielle Robinson each had 15 points to lead the Silver Stars.
"We didn't hit the shots that we usually hit and that's an easy fix," Robinson said after the team shot 36.1 percent. "I think we played pretty well defensively, but we had a couple breakdowns here and there that cost us."
Robinson has emerged as the team's top offensive threat, averaging 17.7 points over her last three games. Adams has also come on strong by totaling 31 in her past two contests.
San Antonio, however, could have a difficult time against an Atlanta team allowing a WNBA-low 69.8 points allowed per game. The Dream also have a league-best 12.8 steals per game behind McCoughtry's league-leading 3.9.
The Silver Stars have dropped three of four in Atlanta, including a 60-57 loss in their last trip June 8, 2012.
McCoughtry led the Dream with 16 points despite 6-of-18 shooting in that meeting. She didn't play because of a left knee sprain July 13 when San Antonio defeated visiting Atlanta 91-70 behind 21 points from Jia Perkins.
Shock-Mystics Preview
Posted Jun 29 2013 4:45PM
With second-leading scorer Liz Cambage back and Tiffany Jackson-Jones nearing her return, the Tulsa Shock hope to begin working their way up the West Conference standings.
A date with the struggling Washington Mystics might be a good place to start.
The Shock go for their first win on their four-game road swing Sunday when they visit the Mystics, losers of five straight.
Despite falling to 0-2 on its trip, Tulsa (3-9) had reason for optimism with the return of Cambage in an 80-69 loss at Indiana on Friday.
The center finished with 10 points, seven rebounds and four blocks in 18 minutes off the bench after missing eight games with an ankle injury. Cambage, averaging 16.5 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.2 blocks, should give the team a much-needed defensive presence inside.
The Shock, last in the West, have a minus-5.6 rebounding differential - the second-worst margin in the WNBA. They're also allowing 83.3 points per game on 47.2 percent shooting - both among the league's worst.
"We've got to step it up on defense and take some pride in our defense," rookie guard Skylar Diggins said.
Tulsa is still waiting on Tiffany Jackson-Jones, who hasn't played because of a stress fracture in her ankle. The forward missed last season due to her pregnancy after leading the Shock with 12.4 points per game in 2011.
According to reports, she's expected to return for Tulsa's next home game July 11 against Los Angeles.
Forward Glory Johnson has stepped up, averaging a team-best 17.8 points and 10.6 rebounds. Johnson, though, looks to bounce back after being held to 11 on 4-of-13 shooting in Friday's loss - her lowest total since the season opener.
Nicole Powell led the Shock with a season-high 21 points on 8-of-11 shooting and has averaged 15.3 over her last four games.
Tulsa may be able to put up some points against a Washington team that has given up 90.4 points per game during its season-worst skid.
Though Washington (4-6) opened the game with a 10-0 run, it allowed an opponent to shoot over 50.0 percent for the third time in four contests Friday in an 86-75 loss at Atlanta.
Monique Currie has totaled 37 points in her last two games after finishing with a team-high 20 on 8-of-11 shooting against the Dream.
"We know how to start games, but we don't know how to finish them,'' guard Ivory Latta said. "That's an area we have struggled with so far this season. It's something we have to correct.''
Latta, the team's leading scorer at 15.9 points per game, will try to break out of her recent slump. She's averaged 9.7 points on 11-of-28 shooting in her last three games.
Latta had a season-high 27 to lead Washington to a 95-90 win at Tulsa on May 27.
Roneeka Hodges had season highs with 22 points and six 3-pointers for the Shock, while Cambage and Johnson combined for 41 and 24 rebounds in that meeting.
Tulsa has lost three straight in the nation's capital.
Posted Jun 29 2013 4:45PM
With second-leading scorer Liz Cambage back and Tiffany Jackson-Jones nearing her return, the Tulsa Shock hope to begin working their way up the West Conference standings.
A date with the struggling Washington Mystics might be a good place to start.
The Shock go for their first win on their four-game road swing Sunday when they visit the Mystics, losers of five straight.
Despite falling to 0-2 on its trip, Tulsa (3-9) had reason for optimism with the return of Cambage in an 80-69 loss at Indiana on Friday.
The center finished with 10 points, seven rebounds and four blocks in 18 minutes off the bench after missing eight games with an ankle injury. Cambage, averaging 16.5 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.2 blocks, should give the team a much-needed defensive presence inside.
The Shock, last in the West, have a minus-5.6 rebounding differential - the second-worst margin in the WNBA. They're also allowing 83.3 points per game on 47.2 percent shooting - both among the league's worst.
"We've got to step it up on defense and take some pride in our defense," rookie guard Skylar Diggins said.
Tulsa is still waiting on Tiffany Jackson-Jones, who hasn't played because of a stress fracture in her ankle. The forward missed last season due to her pregnancy after leading the Shock with 12.4 points per game in 2011.
According to reports, she's expected to return for Tulsa's next home game July 11 against Los Angeles.
Forward Glory Johnson has stepped up, averaging a team-best 17.8 points and 10.6 rebounds. Johnson, though, looks to bounce back after being held to 11 on 4-of-13 shooting in Friday's loss - her lowest total since the season opener.
Nicole Powell led the Shock with a season-high 21 points on 8-of-11 shooting and has averaged 15.3 over her last four games.
Tulsa may be able to put up some points against a Washington team that has given up 90.4 points per game during its season-worst skid.
Though Washington (4-6) opened the game with a 10-0 run, it allowed an opponent to shoot over 50.0 percent for the third time in four contests Friday in an 86-75 loss at Atlanta.
Monique Currie has totaled 37 points in her last two games after finishing with a team-high 20 on 8-of-11 shooting against the Dream.
"We know how to start games, but we don't know how to finish them,'' guard Ivory Latta said. "That's an area we have struggled with so far this season. It's something we have to correct.''
Latta, the team's leading scorer at 15.9 points per game, will try to break out of her recent slump. She's averaged 9.7 points on 11-of-28 shooting in her last three games.
Latta had a season-high 27 to lead Washington to a 95-90 win at Tulsa on May 27.
Roneeka Hodges had season highs with 22 points and six 3-pointers for the Shock, while Cambage and Johnson combined for 41 and 24 rebounds in that meeting.
Tulsa has lost three straight in the nation's capital.
Storm-Fever Preview
Posted Jun 29 2013 11:35PM
The Indiana Fever's defense of their WNBA title has gotten off to a slow start, but they've at least taken a step forward by ending a long losing streak. Despite a better record, the Seattle Storm appear to have a rough road ahead as the absence of two stars continues to take its toll.
Indiana seeks a second straight win at home Sunday night as it faces Seattle.
The Fever (2-7) opened their season with a 77-86 home win over Atlanta, but then proceeded to lose seven in a row while averaging only 64.9 points.
They put an end to the skid with an 80-69 victory over Tulsa on Friday, getting a season-high 28 points from Tamika Catchings, who had missed the previous two games with a lower back injury.
"The last couple of months have been rough as far as just dealing with my back and stuff," said Catchings, who came in averaging 14.4 points in six games. She also had six steals for the Fever, whose 10.4 steals per game rank second in the league.
"The rest really helped. I feel like my old self out there. Able to move, not feeling so stiff."
Despite the season-high point total, the Fever still look to improve on their league-low average 68.1 points a game. Facing Seattle - which owns the league's worst field-goal defense at 47.7 percent - could help.
The Storm (4-5) forced 22 turnovers against New York on Friday, but still took a 67-62 loss, their second in a row. They were outrebounded 46-26, and without three-time league MVP Lauren Jackson - who, like teammate Sue Bird, is out for the season after undergoing surgery - they average a league-worst 29.6 rebounds per game.
"They're not very big," New York coach Bill Laimbeer said. "That's going to be their problem all year long is rebounding."
Seattle was also only 1 for 18 from 3-point range, including a 1-for-6 clip from leading scorer Tina Thompson (13.1 ppg). Thompson, the league's all-time leading scorer who will retire after this season, was held to three points on 1-for-8 shooting for the second straight contest.
"Most of the shots that I took I actually felt like they were going to go in," said the 38-year-old Thompson, an eight-time All-Star. "They just didn't. I just kind of had one of those clunky nights."
Indiana won both meetings last season, including a 72-48 victory at home on Sept. 12 as Catchings tallied 13 points, seven rebounds and six steals. She also recorded 18 points and 11 rebounds in a 68-66 win in Seattle on Aug. 23.
The teams are the WNBA's two worst in terms of assists, with Indiana at 13.0 per game and Seattle averaging 12.3.
Posted Jun 29 2013 11:35PM
The Indiana Fever's defense of their WNBA title has gotten off to a slow start, but they've at least taken a step forward by ending a long losing streak. Despite a better record, the Seattle Storm appear to have a rough road ahead as the absence of two stars continues to take its toll.
Indiana seeks a second straight win at home Sunday night as it faces Seattle.
The Fever (2-7) opened their season with a 77-86 home win over Atlanta, but then proceeded to lose seven in a row while averaging only 64.9 points.
They put an end to the skid with an 80-69 victory over Tulsa on Friday, getting a season-high 28 points from Tamika Catchings, who had missed the previous two games with a lower back injury.
"The last couple of months have been rough as far as just dealing with my back and stuff," said Catchings, who came in averaging 14.4 points in six games. She also had six steals for the Fever, whose 10.4 steals per game rank second in the league.
"The rest really helped. I feel like my old self out there. Able to move, not feeling so stiff."
Despite the season-high point total, the Fever still look to improve on their league-low average 68.1 points a game. Facing Seattle - which owns the league's worst field-goal defense at 47.7 percent - could help.
The Storm (4-5) forced 22 turnovers against New York on Friday, but still took a 67-62 loss, their second in a row. They were outrebounded 46-26, and without three-time league MVP Lauren Jackson - who, like teammate Sue Bird, is out for the season after undergoing surgery - they average a league-worst 29.6 rebounds per game.
"They're not very big," New York coach Bill Laimbeer said. "That's going to be their problem all year long is rebounding."
Seattle was also only 1 for 18 from 3-point range, including a 1-for-6 clip from leading scorer Tina Thompson (13.1 ppg). Thompson, the league's all-time leading scorer who will retire after this season, was held to three points on 1-for-8 shooting for the second straight contest.
"Most of the shots that I took I actually felt like they were going to go in," said the 38-year-old Thompson, an eight-time All-Star. "They just didn't. I just kind of had one of those clunky nights."
Indiana won both meetings last season, including a 72-48 victory at home on Sept. 12 as Catchings tallied 13 points, seven rebounds and six steals. She also recorded 18 points and 11 rebounds in a 68-66 win in Seattle on Aug. 23.
The teams are the WNBA's two worst in terms of assists, with Indiana at 13.0 per game and Seattle averaging 12.3.
Storm-Sky Preview
Posted Jul 01 2013 2:27PM
With center Sylvia Fowles uncertain to play, the Chicago Sky may have to rely on their other two stars if they hope to continue their dominance at home.
The soaring Sky will try for the best home start in franchise history with their sixth straight win Tuesday night against the struggling Seattle Storm.
While she remained optimistic about her availability, Fowles might have to sit against Seattle after leaving late in the first half of Saturday's 94-82 home win over Los Angeles with a sprained ankle.
Fowles, who had 17 points and five boards in the first half, returned to the bench midway through the third quarter on crutches and with her ankle in a splint.
"Deep down inside I know I'll be OK,'' said Fowles, the team's third-leading scorer at 13.9 points per game and the league's top rebounder at 12.2 per contest.
If she's able to play, Fowles should have a big advantage against a Seattle team that ranks last in the WNBA with 28.8 rebounds per game and has the third-worst differential (minus-3.7).
Epiphanny Prince and Elena Delle Donne are certainly capable of carrying the scoring load. Prince had 21 points against the Sparks and Delle Donne 20 to help the Sky (7-3) match the 2009 club's franchise-best start at home.
Only one of Chicago's five home victories has been by fewer than 11 points, and it's averaged 86.2 points on its own floor as opposed to 78.0 on the road.
The Sky trail only WNBA-best Atlanta for the Eastern Conference's best record.
They should have a good chance to continue their excellent offensive production against a Seattle team that's tied for the league's worst field-goal defense at 47.1 percent.
The Storm (4-6) have been even worse offensively during their three-game losing streak, averaging 65.0 points on 38.5 percent shooting - including 19.6 percent from 3-point range.
Reserve Shekinna Stricklen led Seattle with 11 points in a 71-63 loss at Indiana on Sunday.
"Overall we hustled pretty well and moved the ball,'' Stricklen said. "We got killed on second-chance points. They outrebounded us. We got good shots, they just didn't fall.''
Teammate Tina Thompson hasn't been getting her shots to fall lately. Thompson, who is retiring at the end of the season, leads the Storm with 12.7 points per game but has totaled 15 on 4-of-23 shooting in her last three games.
The Storm have dropped their last four trips to Chicago, including a 74-58 loss June 13, 2012, as Fowles (16 points, 15 rebounds) dominated the paint to give the Sky a 44-21 rebounding edge.
Fowles missed Chicago's Sept. 18 visit to Seattle with a leg injury, and the Storm had a 42-25 edge on the glass in a 75-60 win.
Posted Jul 01 2013 2:27PM
With center Sylvia Fowles uncertain to play, the Chicago Sky may have to rely on their other two stars if they hope to continue their dominance at home.
The soaring Sky will try for the best home start in franchise history with their sixth straight win Tuesday night against the struggling Seattle Storm.
While she remained optimistic about her availability, Fowles might have to sit against Seattle after leaving late in the first half of Saturday's 94-82 home win over Los Angeles with a sprained ankle.
Fowles, who had 17 points and five boards in the first half, returned to the bench midway through the third quarter on crutches and with her ankle in a splint.
"Deep down inside I know I'll be OK,'' said Fowles, the team's third-leading scorer at 13.9 points per game and the league's top rebounder at 12.2 per contest.
If she's able to play, Fowles should have a big advantage against a Seattle team that ranks last in the WNBA with 28.8 rebounds per game and has the third-worst differential (minus-3.7).
Epiphanny Prince and Elena Delle Donne are certainly capable of carrying the scoring load. Prince had 21 points against the Sparks and Delle Donne 20 to help the Sky (7-3) match the 2009 club's franchise-best start at home.
Only one of Chicago's five home victories has been by fewer than 11 points, and it's averaged 86.2 points on its own floor as opposed to 78.0 on the road.
The Sky trail only WNBA-best Atlanta for the Eastern Conference's best record.
They should have a good chance to continue their excellent offensive production against a Seattle team that's tied for the league's worst field-goal defense at 47.1 percent.
The Storm (4-6) have been even worse offensively during their three-game losing streak, averaging 65.0 points on 38.5 percent shooting - including 19.6 percent from 3-point range.
Reserve Shekinna Stricklen led Seattle with 11 points in a 71-63 loss at Indiana on Sunday.
"Overall we hustled pretty well and moved the ball,'' Stricklen said. "We got killed on second-chance points. They outrebounded us. We got good shots, they just didn't fall.''
Teammate Tina Thompson hasn't been getting her shots to fall lately. Thompson, who is retiring at the end of the season, leads the Storm with 12.7 points per game but has totaled 15 on 4-of-23 shooting in her last three games.
The Storm have dropped their last four trips to Chicago, including a 74-58 loss June 13, 2012, as Fowles (16 points, 15 rebounds) dominated the paint to give the Sky a 44-21 rebounding edge.
Fowles missed Chicago's Sept. 18 visit to Seattle with a leg injury, and the Storm had a 42-25 edge on the glass in a 75-60 win.
Liberty-Mercury Preview
Posted Jul 01 2013 6:20PM
Still looking to fix their turnover troubles, the New York Liberty can't afford to be giving the high-scoring Phoenix Mercury extra possessions.
The Liberty will attempt to limit their mistakes Tuesday night as they look for their first back-to-back road wins of the season against the surging Mercury.
New York (5-4), averaging a WNBA-worst 19.8 turnovers, overcame 21 Friday to pull out a 67-62 victory at Seattle for its first road win in four tries.
Despite shooting 9 of 24 from the field and giving it away four times, Cappie Pondexter helped the Liberty recover with a game-high 23 points.
"That's the most frustrating thing as a coach to ever go through, to see the players just turn the ball over and many of them were just ridiculous turnovers,'' coach Bill Laimbeer said. "But our defense again is carrying us at the moment and, hopefully, it doesn't catch up to us at some point.''
Laimbeer's club ranks third in the league with 73.6 points allowed and has limited opponents to a WNBA-best 37.0 percent shooting. The Liberty held the Storm to 33.8 percent from the field, including 1 of 18 from 3-point range.
New York, however, may be facing its toughest challenge against a Phoenix team that averages a league-best 86.4 points and has won four straight games.
Diana Taurasi, the league's scoring leader at 23.6 points per game, and DeWanna Bonner had 19 while Candice Dupree had 18 to lead the Mercury to an 89-70 victory at Connecticut on Saturday.
Since starting 0-3 while slowing down their pace to get Brittney Griner involved inside, Phoenix (7-4) has won seven of eight after going back to the up-tempo style that was the trademark of two championship teams.
The Mercury haven't won five in a row since a six-game run July 1-15, 2011.
"We never had a big player of that caliber before,'' coach Corey Gaines said of Griner. "Everybody else took a back seat and we weren't running. After the third game, we had a team meeting and said, `forget all that and let's get back to run and gun, shoot the ball, jack it up.'''
The Liberty may be able to improve their ballhandling in this game as the Mercury have forced the league's second-fewest turnovers at 11.2 per game. Phoenix also has given up a league-high 84.8 points per contest.
New York hopes to get forward Plenette Pierson back after she missed Friday's game with a right knee injury. Pierson finished with a team-high 17 points in just 18 minutes of an 87-59 home win over the Mercury in September.
The Liberty have won their last two trips to Phoenix, including an 89-77 victory last season. Pondexter had 31 points in that meeting, while Bonner led the Mercury with 34.
Posted Jul 01 2013 6:20PM
Still looking to fix their turnover troubles, the New York Liberty can't afford to be giving the high-scoring Phoenix Mercury extra possessions.
The Liberty will attempt to limit their mistakes Tuesday night as they look for their first back-to-back road wins of the season against the surging Mercury.
New York (5-4), averaging a WNBA-worst 19.8 turnovers, overcame 21 Friday to pull out a 67-62 victory at Seattle for its first road win in four tries.
Despite shooting 9 of 24 from the field and giving it away four times, Cappie Pondexter helped the Liberty recover with a game-high 23 points.
"That's the most frustrating thing as a coach to ever go through, to see the players just turn the ball over and many of them were just ridiculous turnovers,'' coach Bill Laimbeer said. "But our defense again is carrying us at the moment and, hopefully, it doesn't catch up to us at some point.''
Laimbeer's club ranks third in the league with 73.6 points allowed and has limited opponents to a WNBA-best 37.0 percent shooting. The Liberty held the Storm to 33.8 percent from the field, including 1 of 18 from 3-point range.
New York, however, may be facing its toughest challenge against a Phoenix team that averages a league-best 86.4 points and has won four straight games.
Diana Taurasi, the league's scoring leader at 23.6 points per game, and DeWanna Bonner had 19 while Candice Dupree had 18 to lead the Mercury to an 89-70 victory at Connecticut on Saturday.
Since starting 0-3 while slowing down their pace to get Brittney Griner involved inside, Phoenix (7-4) has won seven of eight after going back to the up-tempo style that was the trademark of two championship teams.
The Mercury haven't won five in a row since a six-game run July 1-15, 2011.
"We never had a big player of that caliber before,'' coach Corey Gaines said of Griner. "Everybody else took a back seat and we weren't running. After the third game, we had a team meeting and said, `forget all that and let's get back to run and gun, shoot the ball, jack it up.'''
The Liberty may be able to improve their ballhandling in this game as the Mercury have forced the league's second-fewest turnovers at 11.2 per game. Phoenix also has given up a league-high 84.8 points per contest.
New York hopes to get forward Plenette Pierson back after she missed Friday's game with a right knee injury. Pierson finished with a team-high 17 points in just 18 minutes of an 87-59 home win over the Mercury in September.
The Liberty have won their last two trips to Phoenix, including an 89-77 victory last season. Pondexter had 31 points in that meeting, while Bonner led the Mercury with 34.
Shock-Sun Preview
Posted Jul 01 2013 1:25PM
Coming off the worst month in franchise history, the Connecticut Sun may have a tough time avoiding a rough July due to several key injuries.
Trying to avoid matching a team-record five-game home losing streak, Connecticut hosts the Western Conference-worst Tulsa Shock on Tuesday night.
Connecticut's 84 wins in June were more than in any other month in club history heading into 2013, but the Sun (2-7) finished 1-6 last month after getting routed 89-70 by Phoenix on Saturday. They've lost four in a row.
Owners of the worst record in the WNBA, the Sun again played without Kara Lawson (bruised knee), reigning Sixth Woman of the Year Renee Montgomery (left ankle) and Tan White (broken right finger). It's uncertain when they'll return.
"We've got to fight and be competitive until we get bodies back," coach Anne Donovan said.
To improve their chances of winning, the Sun need to shoot better. They're hitting a league-low 38.4 percent from the field after making 26.9 percent against the Mercury.
Connecticut is averaging 71.8 points.
Reigning MVP Tina Charles had 25 points and 11 rebounds, but she scored a team-record 19 from the foul line while going 3 of 18 from the field Saturday. The center has shot 27.4 percent during the team's skid.
The Sun, who last dropped five in a row overall Aug. 25-Sept. 1, 2009, have lost five straight at home once before, June 10-26, 2007.
Tulsa (3-10) has lost all three at Connecticut since the franchise relocated in 2010. It fell 82-80 in overtime in its last visit Aug. 21 on Lawson's 3-pointer with 11.8 seconds left in the extra period.
The Shock, who have played a league-high eight road games, dropped to 0-3 in a four-game stretch away from home with an 84-61 loss to Washington on Sunday. Tulsa, which posted its lowest point total of the season, had won two in a row going into the four-game span.
"This one, I think you just flush it down,'' coach Gary Kloppenburg said. "You're going to have one game like this a year where, for whatever reason, you're fatigued or just shots aren't going down. You just try to flush it down and move on.''
The Shock's Glory Johnson, averaging team highs of 17.0 points and 10.3 boards, has scored 9.5 a game while shooting 5 of 19 over the last two contests.
Tulsa center Elizabeth Cambage, averaging 15.0 points and 6.8 rebounds, has totaled 19 and 10 in those contests after missing eight with an ankle injury.
The Sun have won two straight and five of six meetings with the Shock over the last three seasons.
Posted Jul 01 2013 1:25PM
Coming off the worst month in franchise history, the Connecticut Sun may have a tough time avoiding a rough July due to several key injuries.
Trying to avoid matching a team-record five-game home losing streak, Connecticut hosts the Western Conference-worst Tulsa Shock on Tuesday night.
Connecticut's 84 wins in June were more than in any other month in club history heading into 2013, but the Sun (2-7) finished 1-6 last month after getting routed 89-70 by Phoenix on Saturday. They've lost four in a row.
Owners of the worst record in the WNBA, the Sun again played without Kara Lawson (bruised knee), reigning Sixth Woman of the Year Renee Montgomery (left ankle) and Tan White (broken right finger). It's uncertain when they'll return.
"We've got to fight and be competitive until we get bodies back," coach Anne Donovan said.
To improve their chances of winning, the Sun need to shoot better. They're hitting a league-low 38.4 percent from the field after making 26.9 percent against the Mercury.
Connecticut is averaging 71.8 points.
Reigning MVP Tina Charles had 25 points and 11 rebounds, but she scored a team-record 19 from the foul line while going 3 of 18 from the field Saturday. The center has shot 27.4 percent during the team's skid.
The Sun, who last dropped five in a row overall Aug. 25-Sept. 1, 2009, have lost five straight at home once before, June 10-26, 2007.
Tulsa (3-10) has lost all three at Connecticut since the franchise relocated in 2010. It fell 82-80 in overtime in its last visit Aug. 21 on Lawson's 3-pointer with 11.8 seconds left in the extra period.
The Shock, who have played a league-high eight road games, dropped to 0-3 in a four-game stretch away from home with an 84-61 loss to Washington on Sunday. Tulsa, which posted its lowest point total of the season, had won two in a row going into the four-game span.
"This one, I think you just flush it down,'' coach Gary Kloppenburg said. "You're going to have one game like this a year where, for whatever reason, you're fatigued or just shots aren't going down. You just try to flush it down and move on.''
The Shock's Glory Johnson, averaging team highs of 17.0 points and 10.3 boards, has scored 9.5 a game while shooting 5 of 19 over the last two contests.
Tulsa center Elizabeth Cambage, averaging 15.0 points and 6.8 rebounds, has totaled 19 and 10 in those contests after missing eight with an ankle injury.
The Sun have won two straight and five of six meetings with the Shock over the last three seasons.
Lynx-Sparks Preview
Posted Jul 01 2013 2:58PM
The Minnesota Lynx just exacted some revenge by routing the Los Angeles Sparks in Minneapolis. Winning at Staples Center poses an altogether different challenge for them.
Meeting for the third time in 11 days, the Lynx will try to end the Sparks' 15-game home win streak Tuesday night.
After getting blown out 87-59 in Los Angeles on June 21 - their most lopsided defeat since 2011 - the Lynx (7-2) have posted back-to-back victories. They followed up an 88-79 win over Tulsa on June 23 by beating the Sparks 88-64 on Friday.
Minnesota led Los Angeles by nine heading into the second quarter after falling behind by 14 after 10 minutes in the first matchup.
"We felt like in L.A. they punched us in the mouth first,'' said Seimone Augustus, who scored 19 points after finishing with a season-low six June 21. "They were the aggressors, so we definitely want to protect our home court and come out and be more aggressive.''
The Sparks (5-4) likely can't wait to get home for their next three games after falling to 0-4 on the road with a 94-82 loss to Chicago on Saturday. Los Angeles was outrebounded by six and committed 13 turnovers.
"To win on the road you really have to defend and rebound, you've got to take care of the ball and do all the little things,'' coach Carol Ross said. "We're not there yet.''
The Sparks are the only team without a road win, but they're undefeated at home in the regular season since a 91-71 loss to San Antonio on June 24, 2012. The run started with a 96-90 victory over the Lynx on July 5.
Minnesota has dropped nine of 10 regular-season games at Los Angeles.
Candace Parker, leading the Sparks with 16.3 points and 9.3 rebounds per game, finished with a season-low five points in 17 minutes in the Lynx's last visit. However, she's made 25 of 48 field-goal attempts at home.
The Sparks are shooting 51.3 percent at Staples, but were held to a season-low 36.9 percent Friday.
"The type of defense we played and the approach to the game was championship basketball,'' Minnesota coach Cheryl Reeve said. "They took great pride and came out and played in a way we can all be proud of.''
Though Maya Moore and Augustus totaled 31 points Friday - below their combined average - they were held to eight June 21.
Lynx point guard Lindsay Whalen finished with two points, no assists and two boards in that contest, but she had team highs of 20 points and six assists along with five rebounds Friday.
"I wanted to be more active after watching the tape of the game out in L.A.,'' Whalen said. "I thought we needed a little more tempo and aggressiveness off the start. A lot of that starts from the perimeter.''
Posted Jul 01 2013 2:58PM
The Minnesota Lynx just exacted some revenge by routing the Los Angeles Sparks in Minneapolis. Winning at Staples Center poses an altogether different challenge for them.
Meeting for the third time in 11 days, the Lynx will try to end the Sparks' 15-game home win streak Tuesday night.
After getting blown out 87-59 in Los Angeles on June 21 - their most lopsided defeat since 2011 - the Lynx (7-2) have posted back-to-back victories. They followed up an 88-79 win over Tulsa on June 23 by beating the Sparks 88-64 on Friday.
Minnesota led Los Angeles by nine heading into the second quarter after falling behind by 14 after 10 minutes in the first matchup.
"We felt like in L.A. they punched us in the mouth first,'' said Seimone Augustus, who scored 19 points after finishing with a season-low six June 21. "They were the aggressors, so we definitely want to protect our home court and come out and be more aggressive.''
The Sparks (5-4) likely can't wait to get home for their next three games after falling to 0-4 on the road with a 94-82 loss to Chicago on Saturday. Los Angeles was outrebounded by six and committed 13 turnovers.
"To win on the road you really have to defend and rebound, you've got to take care of the ball and do all the little things,'' coach Carol Ross said. "We're not there yet.''
The Sparks are the only team without a road win, but they're undefeated at home in the regular season since a 91-71 loss to San Antonio on June 24, 2012. The run started with a 96-90 victory over the Lynx on July 5.
Minnesota has dropped nine of 10 regular-season games at Los Angeles.
Candace Parker, leading the Sparks with 16.3 points and 9.3 rebounds per game, finished with a season-low five points in 17 minutes in the Lynx's last visit. However, she's made 25 of 48 field-goal attempts at home.
The Sparks are shooting 51.3 percent at Staples, but were held to a season-low 36.9 percent Friday.
"The type of defense we played and the approach to the game was championship basketball,'' Minnesota coach Cheryl Reeve said. "They took great pride and came out and played in a way we can all be proud of.''
Though Maya Moore and Augustus totaled 31 points Friday - below their combined average - they were held to eight June 21.
Lynx point guard Lindsay Whalen finished with two points, no assists and two boards in that contest, but she had team highs of 20 points and six assists along with five rebounds Friday.
"I wanted to be more active after watching the tape of the game out in L.A.,'' Whalen said. "I thought we needed a little more tempo and aggressiveness off the start. A lot of that starts from the perimeter.''
WNBA
Long Sheet
Tuesday, July 2
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SEATTLE (4 - 6) at CHICAGO (7 - 3) - 7/2/2013, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO is 2-2 against the spread versus SEATTLE over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 2-2 straight up against SEATTLE over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TULSA (3 - 10) at CONNECTICUT (2 - 7) - 7/2/2013, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TULSA is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) on Tuesday over the last 3 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 0-8 ATS (-8.8 Units) in home games against Western conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 0-8 ATS (-8.8 Units) in home games in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
TULSA is 3-1 against the spread versus CONNECTICUT over the last 3 seasons
CONNECTICUT is 3-1 straight up against TULSA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NEW YORK (5 - 4) at PHOENIX (7 - 4) - 7/2/2013, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW YORK is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) in a road game where where the total is greater than or equal to 150 over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 70-48 ATS (+17.2 Units) when playing with 3 or more days rest since 1997.
NEW YORK is 65-42 ATS (+18.8 Units) in road games against Western conference opponents since 1997.
NEW YORK is 65-42 ATS (+18.8 Units) in road games in non-conference games since 1997.
PHOENIX is 15-30 ATS (-18.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 5-16 ATS (-12.6 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in a home game where where the total is greater than or equal to 150 over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 3-1 against the spread versus PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
NEW YORK is 3-1 straight up against PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINNESOTA (7 - 2) at LOS ANGELES (5 - 4) - 7/2/2013, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 60-87 ATS (-35.7 Units) in July games since 1997.
MINNESOTA is 66-91 ATS (-34.1 Units) in road games vs. division opponents since 1997.
Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 7-6 against the spread versus LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 9-4 straight up against LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
7 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
Long Sheet
Tuesday, July 2
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SEATTLE (4 - 6) at CHICAGO (7 - 3) - 7/2/2013, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO is 2-2 against the spread versus SEATTLE over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 2-2 straight up against SEATTLE over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TULSA (3 - 10) at CONNECTICUT (2 - 7) - 7/2/2013, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TULSA is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) on Tuesday over the last 3 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 0-8 ATS (-8.8 Units) in home games against Western conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 0-8 ATS (-8.8 Units) in home games in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
TULSA is 3-1 against the spread versus CONNECTICUT over the last 3 seasons
CONNECTICUT is 3-1 straight up against TULSA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NEW YORK (5 - 4) at PHOENIX (7 - 4) - 7/2/2013, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW YORK is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) in a road game where where the total is greater than or equal to 150 over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 70-48 ATS (+17.2 Units) when playing with 3 or more days rest since 1997.
NEW YORK is 65-42 ATS (+18.8 Units) in road games against Western conference opponents since 1997.
NEW YORK is 65-42 ATS (+18.8 Units) in road games in non-conference games since 1997.
PHOENIX is 15-30 ATS (-18.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 5-16 ATS (-12.6 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in a home game where where the total is greater than or equal to 150 over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 3-1 against the spread versus PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
NEW YORK is 3-1 straight up against PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINNESOTA (7 - 2) at LOS ANGELES (5 - 4) - 7/2/2013, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 60-87 ATS (-35.7 Units) in July games since 1997.
MINNESOTA is 66-91 ATS (-34.1 Units) in road games vs. division opponents since 1997.
Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 7-6 against the spread versus LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 9-4 straight up against LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
7 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
Tuesday, July 2
Game Score Status Pick Amount
Tulsa - 7:00 PM ET Connecticut -7 500 POD # 6
Connecticut - Under 151.5 500
Seattle - 8:00 PM ET Chicago -7.5 500 POD # 1
Chicago - Under 151 500 POD # 3
New York - 10:00 PM ET New York +11.5 500 POD # 2
Phoenix - Under 163.5 500
Minnesota - 10:30 PM ET Los Angeles -2.5 500 POD # 4
Los Angeles - Under 164 500 POD # 5
Game Score Status Pick Amount
Tulsa - 7:00 PM ET Connecticut -7 500 POD # 6
Connecticut - Under 151.5 500
Seattle - 8:00 PM ET Chicago -7.5 500 POD # 1
Chicago - Under 151 500 POD # 3
New York - 10:00 PM ET New York +11.5 500 POD # 2
Phoenix - Under 163.5 500
Minnesota - 10:30 PM ET Los Angeles -2.5 500 POD # 4
Los Angeles - Under 164 500 POD # 5
Liberty-Sparks Preview
Posted Jul 03 2013 3:16PM
The Los Angeles Sparks aren't pleased that they carry the distinction of being the WNBA's lone team without a road victory, but they've made up for it by extending their impressive regular-season home winning streak.
Los Angeles looks to push that run to 17 when it hosts the turnover-prone New York Liberty on Thursday.
The Sparks (6-4) have dropped their four road games by an average of 14.3 points and had lost two straight before returning home for a 96-66 rout of Western Conference-leading Minnesota on Tuesday.
Candace Parker scored 27 points - 21 in the first half - and added eight rebounds for Los Angeles, which has won by an average of 24.0 points when playing at Staples Center.
"We want to (continue) playing well at home and building on that,'' Parker said. "But we've got to figure out what's wrong with the way we play on the road, because it's like two different teams.''
The Sparks haven't lost at home in the regular season since falling to San Antonio 91-71 last June 24. They'll host the Silver Stars on Saturday before heading out for two road games.
"Right now I'd say stay at the Staples Center,'' coach Carol Ross said. "But hopefully we're better than just that.''
Parker actually has been better on the road than at home, averaging 20.5 points compared to 15.3 at Staples. She was hot Tuesday, though, matching her season high.
"The last two games I wasn't necessarily confident. I wasn't sure. When I caught it I was looking to pass first, looking to dribble," Parker said. "(Tuesday) I was just like I've got to catch and shoot. That's what I worked on in the gym.''
Los Angeles' home streak includes an 87-62 win over New York on Aug. 25 as Kristi Tolliver scored 26 points, but Cappie Pondexter had 21 points and 12 boards to help the Liberty win 73-71 at home Sept. 9.
New York (5-5) enters this contest having dropped three of four after falling 94-87 at Phoenix on Tuesday. It committed 14 turnovers - well below its league-worst 19.2 average - but those led to 21 Mercury points.
"I'd rather see us throw the ball in the stands than throw the ball right to them," coach Bill Laimbeer said. "They get easy baskets.''
The Liberty average nearly four more turnovers than any other team.
"That's one thing that always has bothered us from the beginning of the season," said Kara Braxton, who had 14 points. "(We) just (need to) focus on the things that we need to do.''
Pondexter missed nine of her 14 shots Tuesday. She's never shot worse than 40.2 percent for a full season, but she's hitting at just a 36.4 percent clip so far.
"Once we figure out how to play three quarters of really great basketball I think we'll be really great,'' Pondexter said. "Once we figure out four quarters I think we'll really be super great. So it's a matter of us just putting it all together.''
New York has dropped its last two visits to Los Angeles.
Posted Jul 03 2013 3:16PM
The Los Angeles Sparks aren't pleased that they carry the distinction of being the WNBA's lone team without a road victory, but they've made up for it by extending their impressive regular-season home winning streak.
Los Angeles looks to push that run to 17 when it hosts the turnover-prone New York Liberty on Thursday.
The Sparks (6-4) have dropped their four road games by an average of 14.3 points and had lost two straight before returning home for a 96-66 rout of Western Conference-leading Minnesota on Tuesday.
Candace Parker scored 27 points - 21 in the first half - and added eight rebounds for Los Angeles, which has won by an average of 24.0 points when playing at Staples Center.
"We want to (continue) playing well at home and building on that,'' Parker said. "But we've got to figure out what's wrong with the way we play on the road, because it's like two different teams.''
The Sparks haven't lost at home in the regular season since falling to San Antonio 91-71 last June 24. They'll host the Silver Stars on Saturday before heading out for two road games.
"Right now I'd say stay at the Staples Center,'' coach Carol Ross said. "But hopefully we're better than just that.''
Parker actually has been better on the road than at home, averaging 20.5 points compared to 15.3 at Staples. She was hot Tuesday, though, matching her season high.
"The last two games I wasn't necessarily confident. I wasn't sure. When I caught it I was looking to pass first, looking to dribble," Parker said. "(Tuesday) I was just like I've got to catch and shoot. That's what I worked on in the gym.''
Los Angeles' home streak includes an 87-62 win over New York on Aug. 25 as Kristi Tolliver scored 26 points, but Cappie Pondexter had 21 points and 12 boards to help the Liberty win 73-71 at home Sept. 9.
New York (5-5) enters this contest having dropped three of four after falling 94-87 at Phoenix on Tuesday. It committed 14 turnovers - well below its league-worst 19.2 average - but those led to 21 Mercury points.
"I'd rather see us throw the ball in the stands than throw the ball right to them," coach Bill Laimbeer said. "They get easy baskets.''
The Liberty average nearly four more turnovers than any other team.
"That's one thing that always has bothered us from the beginning of the season," said Kara Braxton, who had 14 points. "(We) just (need to) focus on the things that we need to do.''
Pondexter missed nine of her 14 shots Tuesday. She's never shot worse than 40.2 percent for a full season, but she's hitting at just a 36.4 percent clip so far.
"Once we figure out how to play three quarters of really great basketball I think we'll be really great,'' Pondexter said. "Once we figure out four quarters I think we'll really be super great. So it's a matter of us just putting it all together.''
New York has dropped its last two visits to Los Angeles.
Silver Stars-Sparks Preview
Posted Jul 05 2013 2:23PM
The Los Angeles Sparks have put together an impressive regular-season home winning streak since a loss to the San Antonio Silver Stars last year.
Given San Antonio's recent struggles, it doesn't appear to pose much of a threat for another road victory Saturday afternoon.
Los Angeles (7-4) won its 17th straight regular-season game at Staples Center with a 97-89 victory over New York on Thursday, as Kristi Toliver tied her career high with 29 points.
She went 12 of 17 from the field after attempting 18 shots in her previous two games combined.
``The past week my coaches have really gotten on me about having the green light and really shooting the ball,'' Toliver said. ``Just be myself, be aggressive offensively and score the ball. I just tried to do what was asked and what naturally comes.''
While the Sparks are unbeaten at home, they remain the WNBA's only winless road team.
``There's certainly a comfort level,'' coach Carol Ross said about playing at home. ``We got to make sure we don't get too comfortable.''
Candace Parker, who added 20 points Thursday, said the team needs to refocus after concluding a three-game homestand Saturday, as it heads out for two straight road games against Tulsa and Phoenix.
``When we come into a home game, we expect to win,'' Parker said. ``On the road we talk ourselves into hope. It's two different teams for sure.''
Los Angeles' last home loss in the regular season was a 91-71 defeat to San Antonio on June 24, 2012, though the struggling Silver Stars likely will have a much more difficult time ending the streak.
San Antonio (3-7) has lost five of six after falling 93-67 to Atlanta on Sunday. Jia Perkins scored 19 points, though she was only one of eight players healthy enough to dress.
DeLisha Milton-Jones (leg) and Shenise Johnson (knee) each suffered injuries in practice and weren't able to play. Becky Hammon (broken right finger) and Sophia Young (torn ACL) have yet to play this season, and center Jayne Appel has been sidelined since June 11 after suffering a concussion.
``We're banged up,'' coach Dan Hughes said.
Despite the injuries, San Antonio did get the best of Los Angeles earlier this season. Johnson scored 19 points and Danielle Robinson had 18 to help overcome 27 points and 20 boards from Parker in an 83-78 win June 1.
Johnson and Milton-Jones, who spent the previous five and 11 of her first 14 seasons with the Sparks, could return from their injuries in time for Saturday's contest.
Posted Jul 05 2013 2:23PM
The Los Angeles Sparks have put together an impressive regular-season home winning streak since a loss to the San Antonio Silver Stars last year.
Given San Antonio's recent struggles, it doesn't appear to pose much of a threat for another road victory Saturday afternoon.
Los Angeles (7-4) won its 17th straight regular-season game at Staples Center with a 97-89 victory over New York on Thursday, as Kristi Toliver tied her career high with 29 points.
She went 12 of 17 from the field after attempting 18 shots in her previous two games combined.
``The past week my coaches have really gotten on me about having the green light and really shooting the ball,'' Toliver said. ``Just be myself, be aggressive offensively and score the ball. I just tried to do what was asked and what naturally comes.''
While the Sparks are unbeaten at home, they remain the WNBA's only winless road team.
``There's certainly a comfort level,'' coach Carol Ross said about playing at home. ``We got to make sure we don't get too comfortable.''
Candace Parker, who added 20 points Thursday, said the team needs to refocus after concluding a three-game homestand Saturday, as it heads out for two straight road games against Tulsa and Phoenix.
``When we come into a home game, we expect to win,'' Parker said. ``On the road we talk ourselves into hope. It's two different teams for sure.''
Los Angeles' last home loss in the regular season was a 91-71 defeat to San Antonio on June 24, 2012, though the struggling Silver Stars likely will have a much more difficult time ending the streak.
San Antonio (3-7) has lost five of six after falling 93-67 to Atlanta on Sunday. Jia Perkins scored 19 points, though she was only one of eight players healthy enough to dress.
DeLisha Milton-Jones (leg) and Shenise Johnson (knee) each suffered injuries in practice and weren't able to play. Becky Hammon (broken right finger) and Sophia Young (torn ACL) have yet to play this season, and center Jayne Appel has been sidelined since June 11 after suffering a concussion.
``We're banged up,'' coach Dan Hughes said.
Despite the injuries, San Antonio did get the best of Los Angeles earlier this season. Johnson scored 19 points and Danielle Robinson had 18 to help overcome 27 points and 20 boards from Parker in an 83-78 win June 1.
Johnson and Milton-Jones, who spent the previous five and 11 of her first 14 seasons with the Sparks, could return from their injuries in time for Saturday's contest.
Sun-Fever Preview
Posted Jul 05 2013 1:57PM
Behind some improved play on the offensive end, the defending champion Indiana Fever may be finally turning things around.
The Connecticut Sun are hoping to do the same after ending their longest losing streak of the season.
The Fever look for their third straight victory Saturday night when the injury-ravaged clubs meet for the second time this season in Indianapolis.
Health problems are a big reason these teams share last place in the Eastern Conference after meeting in last year's conference finals. Indiana won that series 2-1 en route to the title.
After averaging 64.9 points during a seven-game losing streak, the Fever (3-7) have shown signs of life by scoring 75.5 per game in winning the first two on this four-game homestand.
Tamika Catchings led the way with 18 points in a 71-63 victory over Seattle on Sunday. Shavonte Zellous had 14 points, Karima Christmas added 12 and Jessica Breland finished with 10 and 10 rebounds.
"That was a great team win. A great effort," Catchings said. "I think everybody did a really good job stepping up. Our defense was definitely better in the second half. We did a much better job taking care of the ball and executing offensively."
Since missing two games because of a lower back injury, Catchings, the team's scoring leader at 18.4 per game, has totaled 46 points in the last two. She hasn't missed in 24 attempts from the foul line over her last four contests.
The forward also has been tough defensively with eight steals and five blocks in the two wins. She's third in the league with 2.9 steals per game and seventh in blocks at 1.25 per contest.
The Fever, though, may have lost another player after starting point guard Briann January was hit in the head in the first quarter. January played the entire second quarter but did not return in the second half due to a concussion.
January could become the seventh Indiana player to miss game action, including six of the team's top seven scorers from 2012.
"I've never experienced a season with so many injuries," coach Lin Dunn said. "I've also never experienced a season where so many other people decided to step up."
Dunn's club may have to contain Tina Charles if it hopes to even this season series following Connecticut's 73-61 road victory June 12.
Charles finished with a season-high 30 points on 13-of-17 shooting and 10 rebounds in that meeting. Zellous led the Fever with 14 points, but Catchings was held to 11 on 3-of-15 shooting.
Charles also had 17 points and 13 boards to help the Sun (3-7) end a four-game skid with an 88-69 home win over Tulsa on Tuesday. She's averaging 19.1 points and 10.8 rebounds to rank among the league's top three in both categories.
Allison Hightower had 18 points Tuesday, while Iziane Castro Marques and Kalana Greene added 15 and 14, respectively.
The Sun are hitting 39.5 percent from the field but took a big step forward Tuesday by making 50.8, including 8 for 14 from 3-point range.
Connecticut has had its own share of injuries, continuing to play without Kara Lawson (bruised knee), Renee Montgomery (left ankle) and Tan White (broken right finger). It's uncertain when they'll return.
Posted Jul 05 2013 1:57PM
Behind some improved play on the offensive end, the defending champion Indiana Fever may be finally turning things around.
The Connecticut Sun are hoping to do the same after ending their longest losing streak of the season.
The Fever look for their third straight victory Saturday night when the injury-ravaged clubs meet for the second time this season in Indianapolis.
Health problems are a big reason these teams share last place in the Eastern Conference after meeting in last year's conference finals. Indiana won that series 2-1 en route to the title.
After averaging 64.9 points during a seven-game losing streak, the Fever (3-7) have shown signs of life by scoring 75.5 per game in winning the first two on this four-game homestand.
Tamika Catchings led the way with 18 points in a 71-63 victory over Seattle on Sunday. Shavonte Zellous had 14 points, Karima Christmas added 12 and Jessica Breland finished with 10 and 10 rebounds.
"That was a great team win. A great effort," Catchings said. "I think everybody did a really good job stepping up. Our defense was definitely better in the second half. We did a much better job taking care of the ball and executing offensively."
Since missing two games because of a lower back injury, Catchings, the team's scoring leader at 18.4 per game, has totaled 46 points in the last two. She hasn't missed in 24 attempts from the foul line over her last four contests.
The forward also has been tough defensively with eight steals and five blocks in the two wins. She's third in the league with 2.9 steals per game and seventh in blocks at 1.25 per contest.
The Fever, though, may have lost another player after starting point guard Briann January was hit in the head in the first quarter. January played the entire second quarter but did not return in the second half due to a concussion.
January could become the seventh Indiana player to miss game action, including six of the team's top seven scorers from 2012.
"I've never experienced a season with so many injuries," coach Lin Dunn said. "I've also never experienced a season where so many other people decided to step up."
Dunn's club may have to contain Tina Charles if it hopes to even this season series following Connecticut's 73-61 road victory June 12.
Charles finished with a season-high 30 points on 13-of-17 shooting and 10 rebounds in that meeting. Zellous led the Fever with 14 points, but Catchings was held to 11 on 3-of-15 shooting.
Charles also had 17 points and 13 boards to help the Sun (3-7) end a four-game skid with an 88-69 home win over Tulsa on Tuesday. She's averaging 19.1 points and 10.8 rebounds to rank among the league's top three in both categories.
Allison Hightower had 18 points Tuesday, while Iziane Castro Marques and Kalana Greene added 15 and 14, respectively.
The Sun are hitting 39.5 percent from the field but took a big step forward Tuesday by making 50.8, including 8 for 14 from 3-point range.
Connecticut has had its own share of injuries, continuing to play without Kara Lawson (bruised knee), Renee Montgomery (left ankle) and Tan White (broken right finger). It's uncertain when they'll return.
Storm-Mystics Preview
Posted Jul 05 2013 3:26PM
Washington Mystics coach Mike Thibault surely would've liked to be in this position a few weeks ago, but he's finally on the verge of making history.
Thibault looks to become the WNBA's winningest coach as Washington hosts the Seattle Storm on Saturday night.
After winning a combined 11 games over the last two seasons, the Mystics hired Thibault, who had a successful 10-year run with Connecticut, to guide their turnaround.
Washington (5-6) already has matched last year's win total, with Thibault picking up his 211th career victory with Sunday's 84-61 rout of Tulsa to tie former Houston Comets coach Van Chancellor.
Ivory Latta scored a game-high 15 points while Monique Currie added 13 for the Mystics, who won by more than 20 points for the first time since 2010.
"That's a major accomplishment," Currie said. "I'm very excited and happy for him. He's definitely one of the best coaches, if not the best coach, in the league and I'm honored to be able to play with him and grow as a player in his system."
Thibault sought to sign Latta specifically when he took the job, and the point guard is averaging career bests in points (15.8) and assists (4.1).
``You can't match that intensity that she brings,'' Currie said. ``When she's pumped up and she's playing well, I think a lot of us feed off her energy.''
Latta seems more than happy with her decision to play for Thibault.
"Coach is the guy," Latta said. "I'm an extension of him right there on the court and I'm so happy for him. It's definitely a great accomplishment."
It took some time for Washington to push Thibault to the brink of history, though. Sunday's victory ended a five-game losing streak that began with a 96-86 loss at Seattle on June 18.
"It was important for us to come out here and not only protect our home court but show we're capable of coming out here and winning games," Currie said.
Veteran Tina Thompson, who announced she'll retire at the end of the season, scored a season-high 30 points for the Storm in the first meeting with Washington, and her 10 points and 11 boards helped guide them to a 69-60 win over Chicago on Tuesday.
Camille Little and Temeka Johnson added 16 points apiece for Seattle (5-6), which overcame a 14-point deficit to snap a three-game losing streak. It marked a season-low in points, and the Storm held Chicago to 29.9 percent shooting.
``That was our lull in the beginning, we couldn't put anything in,'' Thompson said. ``But we played pretty well defensively. So once we got our rhythm offensively and our defense was as good as it was, that allowed us to build the lead.''
Seattle ranks 11th of 12 WNBA teams in scoring, averaging 71.8 points.
Washington allowed an average of 90.4 points during its losing streak before setting a season best in points allowed in its last contest.
Posted Jul 05 2013 3:26PM
Washington Mystics coach Mike Thibault surely would've liked to be in this position a few weeks ago, but he's finally on the verge of making history.
Thibault looks to become the WNBA's winningest coach as Washington hosts the Seattle Storm on Saturday night.
After winning a combined 11 games over the last two seasons, the Mystics hired Thibault, who had a successful 10-year run with Connecticut, to guide their turnaround.
Washington (5-6) already has matched last year's win total, with Thibault picking up his 211th career victory with Sunday's 84-61 rout of Tulsa to tie former Houston Comets coach Van Chancellor.
Ivory Latta scored a game-high 15 points while Monique Currie added 13 for the Mystics, who won by more than 20 points for the first time since 2010.
"That's a major accomplishment," Currie said. "I'm very excited and happy for him. He's definitely one of the best coaches, if not the best coach, in the league and I'm honored to be able to play with him and grow as a player in his system."
Thibault sought to sign Latta specifically when he took the job, and the point guard is averaging career bests in points (15.8) and assists (4.1).
``You can't match that intensity that she brings,'' Currie said. ``When she's pumped up and she's playing well, I think a lot of us feed off her energy.''
Latta seems more than happy with her decision to play for Thibault.
"Coach is the guy," Latta said. "I'm an extension of him right there on the court and I'm so happy for him. It's definitely a great accomplishment."
It took some time for Washington to push Thibault to the brink of history, though. Sunday's victory ended a five-game losing streak that began with a 96-86 loss at Seattle on June 18.
"It was important for us to come out here and not only protect our home court but show we're capable of coming out here and winning games," Currie said.
Veteran Tina Thompson, who announced she'll retire at the end of the season, scored a season-high 30 points for the Storm in the first meeting with Washington, and her 10 points and 11 boards helped guide them to a 69-60 win over Chicago on Tuesday.
Camille Little and Temeka Johnson added 16 points apiece for Seattle (5-6), which overcame a 14-point deficit to snap a three-game losing streak. It marked a season-low in points, and the Storm held Chicago to 29.9 percent shooting.
``That was our lull in the beginning, we couldn't put anything in,'' Thompson said. ``But we played pretty well defensively. So once we got our rhythm offensively and our defense was as good as it was, that allowed us to build the lead.''
Seattle ranks 11th of 12 WNBA teams in scoring, averaging 71.8 points.
Washington allowed an average of 90.4 points during its losing streak before setting a season best in points allowed in its last contest.
WNBA
Dunkel
Connecticut at Indiana
The Sun look to take advantage of a Indiana team that is 0-6 ATS in its last 6 games against Eastern Conference opponents. Connecticut is the pick (+4 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the game Even. Dunkel Pick: Connecticut (+4 1/2). Here are all of today's picks
SATURDAY, JULY 6
Game 651-652: San Antonio at Los Angeles (5:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Antonio 106.139; Los Angeles 122.557
Dunkel Line & Total: Los Angeles by 16 1/2; 156
Vegas Line & Total: Los Angeles by 13 1/2; 160 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Los Angeles (-13 1/2); Under
Game 653-654: Seattle at Washington (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle 105.733; Washington 114.460
Dunkel Line & Total: Washington by 8 1/2; 149
Vegas Line & Total: Washington by 6 1/2; 144 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-6 1/2); Over
Game 655-656: Connecticut at Indiana (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Connecticut 109.770; Indiana 110.102
Dunkel Line & Total: Even; 147
Vegas Line & Total: Indiana by 4 1/2; 142 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Connecticut (+4 1/2); Over
WNBA
Long Sheet
Saturday, July 6
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SAN ANTONIO (3 - 7) at LOS ANGELES (7 - 4) - 7/6/2013, 5:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN ANTONIO is 20-8 ATS (+11.2 Units) in a road game where where the total is greater than or equal to 150 over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in May, June, or July games over the last 2 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 2-13 ATS (-12.3 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 to 15 points since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 5-18 ATS (-14.8 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 to 18 points since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 or more points since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 13-25 ATS (-14.5 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
SAN ANTONIO is 7-4 against the spread versus LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
SAN ANTONIO is 7-5 straight up against LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
7 of 12 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SEATTLE (5 - 6) at WASHINGTON (5 - 6) - 7/6/2013, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 8-19 ATS (-12.9 Units) in road games after 3 or more consecutive unders since 1997.
SEATTLE is 23-42 ATS (-23.2 Units) off an upset win as an underdog since 1997.
SEATTLE is 20-9 ATS (+10.1 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 76-51 ATS (+19.9 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 232-285 ATS (-81.5 Units) in all games since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 39-66 ATS (-33.6 Units) when playing with 3 or more days rest since 1997.
Head-to-Head Series History
SEATTLE is 4-1 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
SEATTLE is 5-0 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONNECTICUT (3 - 7) at INDIANA (3 - 7) - 7/6/2013, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CONNECTICUT is 11-23 ATS (-14.3 Units) after scoring 75 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
INDIANA is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
INDIANA is 6-6 against the spread versus CONNECTICUT over the last 3 seasons
CONNECTICUT is 7-6 straight up against INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
8 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WNBA
Saturday, July 6
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5:00 PM
SAN ANTONIO vs. LOS ANGELES
San Antonio is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Los Angeles
San Antonio is 3-7-1 ATS in its last 11 games on the road
Los Angeles is 2-4-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing at home against San Antonio
Los Angeles is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
7:00 PM
CONNECTICUT vs. INDIANA
Connecticut is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Connecticut's last 7 games on the road
Indiana is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Indiana's last 8 games
7:00 PM
SEATTLE vs. WASHINGTON
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Seattle's last 6 games when playing on the road against Washington
Seattle is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Washington
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Washington's last 6 games when playing at home against Seattle
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Washington's last 6 games
Dunkel
Connecticut at Indiana
The Sun look to take advantage of a Indiana team that is 0-6 ATS in its last 6 games against Eastern Conference opponents. Connecticut is the pick (+4 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the game Even. Dunkel Pick: Connecticut (+4 1/2). Here are all of today's picks
SATURDAY, JULY 6
Game 651-652: San Antonio at Los Angeles (5:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Antonio 106.139; Los Angeles 122.557
Dunkel Line & Total: Los Angeles by 16 1/2; 156
Vegas Line & Total: Los Angeles by 13 1/2; 160 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Los Angeles (-13 1/2); Under
Game 653-654: Seattle at Washington (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle 105.733; Washington 114.460
Dunkel Line & Total: Washington by 8 1/2; 149
Vegas Line & Total: Washington by 6 1/2; 144 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-6 1/2); Over
Game 655-656: Connecticut at Indiana (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Connecticut 109.770; Indiana 110.102
Dunkel Line & Total: Even; 147
Vegas Line & Total: Indiana by 4 1/2; 142 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Connecticut (+4 1/2); Over
WNBA
Long Sheet
Saturday, July 6
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SAN ANTONIO (3 - 7) at LOS ANGELES (7 - 4) - 7/6/2013, 5:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN ANTONIO is 20-8 ATS (+11.2 Units) in a road game where where the total is greater than or equal to 150 over the last 3 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in May, June, or July games over the last 2 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 2-13 ATS (-12.3 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 to 15 points since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 5-18 ATS (-14.8 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 to 18 points since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 or more points since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 13-25 ATS (-14.5 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
SAN ANTONIO is 7-4 against the spread versus LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
SAN ANTONIO is 7-5 straight up against LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
7 of 12 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SEATTLE (5 - 6) at WASHINGTON (5 - 6) - 7/6/2013, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 8-19 ATS (-12.9 Units) in road games after 3 or more consecutive unders since 1997.
SEATTLE is 23-42 ATS (-23.2 Units) off an upset win as an underdog since 1997.
SEATTLE is 20-9 ATS (+10.1 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 76-51 ATS (+19.9 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 232-285 ATS (-81.5 Units) in all games since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 39-66 ATS (-33.6 Units) when playing with 3 or more days rest since 1997.
Head-to-Head Series History
SEATTLE is 4-1 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
SEATTLE is 5-0 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONNECTICUT (3 - 7) at INDIANA (3 - 7) - 7/6/2013, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CONNECTICUT is 11-23 ATS (-14.3 Units) after scoring 75 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
INDIANA is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
INDIANA is 6-6 against the spread versus CONNECTICUT over the last 3 seasons
CONNECTICUT is 7-6 straight up against INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
8 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WNBA
Saturday, July 6
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5:00 PM
SAN ANTONIO vs. LOS ANGELES
San Antonio is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Los Angeles
San Antonio is 3-7-1 ATS in its last 11 games on the road
Los Angeles is 2-4-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing at home against San Antonio
Los Angeles is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
7:00 PM
CONNECTICUT vs. INDIANA
Connecticut is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Connecticut's last 7 games on the road
Indiana is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Indiana's last 8 games
7:00 PM
SEATTLE vs. WASHINGTON
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Seattle's last 6 games when playing on the road against Washington
Seattle is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Washington
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Washington's last 6 games when playing at home against Seattle
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Washington's last 6 games
Date WLT Pct Net Units Record
07/04/13 0-*2-*0 0.00% -*1100 Detail
07/02/13 5-*3-*0 62.50% +*850 Detail
Totals 5-*5-*0 50.00% -*250
Saturday, July 6
Game Score Status Pick Amount
San Antonio - 5:00 PM ET Los Angeles -13.5 500 POD # 5
Los Angeles - Under 161.5 500 POD # 3
-------------------------------------------------------
Seattle - 7:00 PM ET Seattle +6 500 POD # 4
Washington - Under 145.5 500 POD # 6
--------------------------------------------------------
Connecticut - 7:00 PM ET Indiana -4.5 500 POD # 1
Indiana - Over 143 500 POD # 2
07/04/13 0-*2-*0 0.00% -*1100 Detail
07/02/13 5-*3-*0 62.50% +*850 Detail
Totals 5-*5-*0 50.00% -*250
Saturday, July 6
Game Score Status Pick Amount
San Antonio - 5:00 PM ET Los Angeles -13.5 500 POD # 5
Los Angeles - Under 161.5 500 POD # 3
-------------------------------------------------------
Seattle - 7:00 PM ET Seattle +6 500 POD # 4
Washington - Under 145.5 500 POD # 6
--------------------------------------------------------
Connecticut - 7:00 PM ET Indiana -4.5 500 POD # 1
Indiana - Over 143 500 POD # 2
WNBA
Dunkel
Phoenix at Minnesota
The Lynx look to build on their 5-1 ATS record in their last 6 home games. Minnesota is the pick (-7 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Lynx favored by 14. Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (-7 1/2). Here are all of today's picks
SUNDAY, JULY 7
Game 601-602: Chicago at New York (3:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Chicago 111.373; New York 114.995
Dunkel Line & Total: New York by 3 1/2; 157
Vegas Line & Total: Chicago by 1 1/2; 152 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New York (+1 1/2); Over
Game 603-604: Phoenix at Minnesota (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Phoenix 106.579; Minnesota 120.540
Dunkel Line & Total: Minnesota by 14; 170
Vegas Line & Total: Minnesota by 7 1/2; 175 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (-7 1/2); Under
WNBA
Long Sheet
Sunday, July 7
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CHICAGO (7 - 4) at NEW YORK (5 - 6) - 7/7/2013, 3:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 5-5 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
NEW YORK is 5-5 straight up against CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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PHOENIX (8 - 4) at MINNESOTA (7 - 3) - 7/7/2013, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 15-31 ATS (-19.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 11-25 ATS (-16.5 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) as a road underdog of 6.5 to 9 points over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) on Sunday games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 5-19 ATS (-15.9 Units) when playing with 3 or more days rest over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 8-20 ATS (-14.0 Units) vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 13-26 ATS (-15.6 Units) after allowing 75 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 26-14 ATS (+10.6 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 60-88 ATS (-36.8 Units) in July games since 1997.
Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 10-3 against the spread versus PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 11-2 straight up against PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
7 of 13 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WNBA
Sunday, July 7
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3:00 PM
CHICAGO vs. NEW YORK
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 6 games when playing New York
Chicago is 5-10 SU in its last 15 games when playing New York
New York is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Chicago
New York is 10-5 SU in its last 15 games when playing Chicago
7:00 PM
PHOENIX vs. MINNESOTA
Phoenix is 5-13 ATS in its last 18 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Phoenix's last 7 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Minnesota is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Minnesota is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Dunkel
Phoenix at Minnesota
The Lynx look to build on their 5-1 ATS record in their last 6 home games. Minnesota is the pick (-7 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Lynx favored by 14. Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (-7 1/2). Here are all of today's picks
SUNDAY, JULY 7
Game 601-602: Chicago at New York (3:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Chicago 111.373; New York 114.995
Dunkel Line & Total: New York by 3 1/2; 157
Vegas Line & Total: Chicago by 1 1/2; 152 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New York (+1 1/2); Over
Game 603-604: Phoenix at Minnesota (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Phoenix 106.579; Minnesota 120.540
Dunkel Line & Total: Minnesota by 14; 170
Vegas Line & Total: Minnesota by 7 1/2; 175 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (-7 1/2); Under
WNBA
Long Sheet
Sunday, July 7
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHICAGO (7 - 4) at NEW YORK (5 - 6) - 7/7/2013, 3:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 5-5 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
NEW YORK is 5-5 straight up against CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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PHOENIX (8 - 4) at MINNESOTA (7 - 3) - 7/7/2013, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 15-31 ATS (-19.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 11-25 ATS (-16.5 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) as a road underdog of 6.5 to 9 points over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) on Sunday games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 5-19 ATS (-15.9 Units) when playing with 3 or more days rest over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 8-20 ATS (-14.0 Units) vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 13-26 ATS (-15.6 Units) after allowing 75 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 26-14 ATS (+10.6 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 60-88 ATS (-36.8 Units) in July games since 1997.
Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 10-3 against the spread versus PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 11-2 straight up against PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
7 of 13 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WNBA
Sunday, July 7
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3:00 PM
CHICAGO vs. NEW YORK
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 6 games when playing New York
Chicago is 5-10 SU in its last 15 games when playing New York
New York is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Chicago
New York is 10-5 SU in its last 15 games when playing Chicago
7:00 PM
PHOENIX vs. MINNESOTA
Phoenix is 5-13 ATS in its last 18 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Phoenix's last 7 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Minnesota is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Minnesota is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Sky-Liberty Preview
Posted Jul 06 2013 6:14PM
After having their winning streak snapped without her, the Chicago Sky hope to get Sylvia Fowles back as they take on one of the league's top rebounding teams.
Though Fowles is day-to-day with a sprained ankle, the Sky will try to regroup and win for the fourth time in five games Sunday when they visit a New York Liberty team that has lost four of five.
Chicago (7-4), second in the East behind WNBA-best Atlanta, had been on a roll before Fowles was injured in the first half of a 94-82 home win over Los Angeles on June 29.
While the Sky managed to finish off that victory - their season-best third in a row - they couldn't overcome the loss of the league's top rebounder (12.2 per game) and their third-best scorer (13.9) in a 69-60 loss to Seattle on Tuesday.
Chicago averaged 84.0 points during its winning streak before shooting just 29.9 percent, including 4 for 22 from 3-point range, on the way to a season-low point total against the Storm.
Rookie Elena Delle Donne and Epiphanny Prince attempted to pick up the scoring load but finished with 12 points apiece. Delle Donne and Prince lead the Sky with 18.8 and 17.9 points per game, respectively.
"At times it seemed there was a lid on the basket,'' said Delle Donne, who missed 10 of 13 shot attempts. "Other times they were running double teams, just trying to get the ball out of certain people's hand.''
Although Swin Cash had a season-high 14 rebounds and Delle Donne added a season-best 12, the Sky held a 41-36 rebound edge over a Seattle team that ranked last in the WNBA with 28.8 rebounds per game and had the third-worst differential (minus-3.7) entering the contest.
The Sky have the league's best rebounding differential at plus-9.3, largely due to Fowles.
If the center is unable to play, that's likely to be an area of concern since the Liberty rank near the top of the WNBA with 39.1 rebounds per game and a plus-4.0 differential.
Kara Braxton leads the team with 7.0 rebounds per game, while Kelsey Bone averages 5.5. Bone had a team-high nine to help New York outrebound Chicago 38-36 on June 26.
Fowles finished with 19 points and 14 boards and Delle Donne scored a career-high 26 to key that 87-74 Sky victory. Chicago native Cappie Pondexter led the Liberty with 21.
New York (5-6) looks to get back on track at home after closing out a four-game road trip by giving up 94 and 97 points in consecutive losses. The Liberty have allowed 71.4 points while winning four of five at the Prudential Center.
Pondexter, the leading vote getter for the All-Star game among East guards, bounced back nicely following a 5-for-14 shooting performance in a 94-87 loss at Phoenix on Tuesday.
She had a season-high 34 points on 13-of-25 shooting as New York rallied in the fourth quarter before falling 97-89 at Los Angeles on Thursday.
"I kind of made some adjustments, mentally more than anything,'' said Pondexter, averaging a team-best 19.1 points. "I'm ready to get going.''
Chicago won both trips to New York last season, with Brooklyn native Prince totaling 56 points in the two games.
Posted Jul 06 2013 6:14PM
After having their winning streak snapped without her, the Chicago Sky hope to get Sylvia Fowles back as they take on one of the league's top rebounding teams.
Though Fowles is day-to-day with a sprained ankle, the Sky will try to regroup and win for the fourth time in five games Sunday when they visit a New York Liberty team that has lost four of five.
Chicago (7-4), second in the East behind WNBA-best Atlanta, had been on a roll before Fowles was injured in the first half of a 94-82 home win over Los Angeles on June 29.
While the Sky managed to finish off that victory - their season-best third in a row - they couldn't overcome the loss of the league's top rebounder (12.2 per game) and their third-best scorer (13.9) in a 69-60 loss to Seattle on Tuesday.
Chicago averaged 84.0 points during its winning streak before shooting just 29.9 percent, including 4 for 22 from 3-point range, on the way to a season-low point total against the Storm.
Rookie Elena Delle Donne and Epiphanny Prince attempted to pick up the scoring load but finished with 12 points apiece. Delle Donne and Prince lead the Sky with 18.8 and 17.9 points per game, respectively.
"At times it seemed there was a lid on the basket,'' said Delle Donne, who missed 10 of 13 shot attempts. "Other times they were running double teams, just trying to get the ball out of certain people's hand.''
Although Swin Cash had a season-high 14 rebounds and Delle Donne added a season-best 12, the Sky held a 41-36 rebound edge over a Seattle team that ranked last in the WNBA with 28.8 rebounds per game and had the third-worst differential (minus-3.7) entering the contest.
The Sky have the league's best rebounding differential at plus-9.3, largely due to Fowles.
If the center is unable to play, that's likely to be an area of concern since the Liberty rank near the top of the WNBA with 39.1 rebounds per game and a plus-4.0 differential.
Kara Braxton leads the team with 7.0 rebounds per game, while Kelsey Bone averages 5.5. Bone had a team-high nine to help New York outrebound Chicago 38-36 on June 26.
Fowles finished with 19 points and 14 boards and Delle Donne scored a career-high 26 to key that 87-74 Sky victory. Chicago native Cappie Pondexter led the Liberty with 21.
New York (5-6) looks to get back on track at home after closing out a four-game road trip by giving up 94 and 97 points in consecutive losses. The Liberty have allowed 71.4 points while winning four of five at the Prudential Center.
Pondexter, the leading vote getter for the All-Star game among East guards, bounced back nicely following a 5-for-14 shooting performance in a 94-87 loss at Phoenix on Tuesday.
She had a season-high 34 points on 13-of-25 shooting as New York rallied in the fourth quarter before falling 97-89 at Los Angeles on Thursday.
"I kind of made some adjustments, mentally more than anything,'' said Pondexter, averaging a team-best 19.1 points. "I'm ready to get going.''
Chicago won both trips to New York last season, with Brooklyn native Prince totaling 56 points in the two games.
