By Tiffany Williams –
As the Connecticut Sun return from the WNBA All-Star Break, they face a pivotal stretch beginning with a home game against the surging Los Angeles Sparks. While the Sun’s 3-19 record paints a grim picture, recent performances—particularly from younger players—offer glimmers of potential growth and reset in the second half of the season.
Connecticut previously faced the Sparks on July 13 in Los Angeles, losing a close contest, 92-88. Bria Hartley posted a season-high 25 points and six assists — her first 20+ point performance since 2020 — while rookie Saniya Rivers added a career-high 20 points and three three-pointers.
That loss ended the Sun’s 13-game regular-season win streak over the Sparks dating back to 2020. Connecticut holds a 31-29 all-time record against Los Angeles in regular-season play, including an 18-11 mark at home.
The Sparks enter Thursday’s game riding a three-game win streak, most recently defeating the Washington Mystics, 93-86, on the road Tuesday night. Dearica Hamby led the way with 24 points and 14 rebounds, while Rickea Jackson chipped in 22 points and four assists.
Los Angeles is coached by Lynne Roberts, now in her first WNBA season after nine years as head coach at the University of Utah.
The Sun entered the All-Star Break with the league’s worst record, but they’ve remained competitive in several losses, including a narrow 92-88 defeat to the Sparks on July 13.
For the Connecticut Sun to secure a win, they must start strong and avoid falling into an early deficit, a recurring issue this season. Bench production will be key, with veterans like Bria Hartley and emerging rookie Leila Lacan needing to provide scoring and stability when the starters rest. Defensively, containing Los Angeles’ perimeter threats—particularly Rickea Jackson and Marina Mabrey—will be critical to slowing the Sparks’ offensive rhythm. Finally, the Sun must execute cleanly in crunch time, minimizing turnovers and maintaining composure to close out a tight game if it comes down to the wire.
If Marina Mabrey plays, the Sparks’ offensive firepower—combined with their current momentum—may prove too much for the struggling Sun to overcome. However, if Mabrey is sidelined and Connecticut can take care of the basketball while generating energy from their home crowd, the Sun have a realistic chance to pull off a much-needed upset behind strong contributions from their young core, particularly Leila Lacan.
Projected Score:
Sparks 85, Sun 79 (if Mabrey plays)
Sun 83, Sparks 81 (if Mabrey sits and Lacan shines)