SPARKS TONIGHT

vs. Houston, 6:30, FSN West 2

Site -- Staples Center.

Records -- Sparks 14-16, Comets 17-14.

Record vs. Comets -- 2-0.

Update -- It would definitely mean something to veteran Comets Sheryl Swoopes and Janeth Arcain if they could damage the Sparks’ playoff hopes with a win tonight. Those players were on the Houston team whose reign of four consecutive WNBA championships was ended by the Sparks in 2001. The Comets are trying to finish in second place in the Western Conference. The Sparks can only think about winning their final four games and relying on another team to knock out Phoenix, which currently has the final playoff slot. Even though the Sparks lead the all-time series, 16-14, they have never beaten Houston three times in a season. Lisa Leslie is scheduled to receive her championship ring as a member of the 2004 Olympic team before the game.

Tickets -- (213) 480-3232.

--Mike Terry