SPARKS TONIGHT

vs. Minnesota, 6:30, FSN Prime Ticket

Site -- Staples Center.

Records -- Sparks 24-9, Lynx 10-23.

Record vs. Lynx -- 1-1.

Update -- The last pivotal piece of regular-season business for the Sparks was accomplished Saturday. With Houston’s victory over Seattle, the Comets clinched third in the West, leaving Los Angeles to open the playoffs Friday at fourth-seeded Seattle. Coach Joe Bryant’s concern tonight against the Lynx will be to keep his players sharp and avoid injuries. Otherwise, it’s Fan Appreciation Night and the one chance this season for local fans to see Minnesota guard Seimone Augustus. The top pick in the 2006 draft has lived up to expectations and probably will be voted the rookie of the year. She has a scoring average of 22.2.

Tickets -- (213) 480-3232.

-- Mike Terry