On July 3, the Los Angeles Sparks suffered an 8-game losing streak after a home defeat against the Washington Mystics in a WNBA regular season match. Despite leading by as many as 14 points in the final quarter, the Sparks collapsed and ultimately lost on their home court.
The Sparks had an impressive shooting night through three quarters, taking advantage of the Mystics’ poor defense and heading into the fourth quarter with a 12-point lead. Early in the last period, they extended their lead to 14 points. However, just when it seemed that the Sparks would end their seven-game skid, the Mystics staged a sudden rally. Forward Aerial Powers and guard Ariel Atkins combined for consecutive three-pointers, fueling a 10-0 run that quickly closed the gap. After a seesaw battle, the score was tied at 77 apiece. In the clutch moments, Tianna Hawkins hit a crucial three-pointer, and a late turnover by the Sparks sealed their fate as the Mystics completed a stunning comeback victory.
Chinese player Li Yueru had a modest performance in this game, playing 14 minutes and going 1-of-3 from the field for 4 points, along with 3 rebounds and 1 assist. For Li, she still has work to do in adapting to her team’s rhythm and capitalizing on Brink’s absence.
