The Los Angeles Sparks shocked the basketball world by beating the Las Vegas Aces 78-72 on Saturday afternoon.
It not only was the first regular-season home loss of the season for the Aces, but also their first in the last 21 home games. With the victory, the Sparks now have sole possession of the eighth and final playoff spot.
It was a coalition of the willing that lifted LA above Las Vegas on the road, but, from that group, Jordin Canada shined the brightest. She ended the night with 20 points, three assists and three steals. Layshia Clarendon also had an outstanding performance with 22 points, five assists and five rebounds.
Las Vegas was within striking distance throughout the fourth quarter, but could never get over the hump, despite a valiant effort from A’ja Wilson, who ended the night with 25 points and nine rebounds. The Aces are now 28-4 on the season and can still tie the 1998 Houston Comets for the highest single-season winning percentage of all time if they win their remaining eight games.
Key moments
LA took control from the jump, dominating Las Vegas in the first quarter 24-15. The only bright spot for Las Vegas was Wilson, who scored the team’s first 10 points. Canada was red hot from three for LA, going 3-for-4 from downtown and scoring 11 points…
