Sparks can’t keep up with Minnesota Lynx in 82-72 loss

Maya Moore scored 16 of her 30 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Minnesota Lynx to an 82-72 victory over the Sparks on Tuesday night.

Lindsay Whalen added 16 points for Minnesota (14-6), which improved to 8-1 at home.

Jantel Lavender scored 17 points and Candace Parker added 16 for Los Angeles (7-11), which closed the third quarter with a 9-0 run to take a 59-56 lead.

Moore, announced the top vote-getter in All-Star balloting earlier in the evening, then took over for the defending champions.

Nneka Ogwumike led all rebounders with 14 for the Sparks, who lost their second game in a row.