Sparks slump continues with 86-81 loss to Dream
Reporting from LOS ANGELES — Angel McCoughtry had 32 points and 11 rebounds and the Atlanta Dream beat the Los Angeles Sparks 86-81 to snap a four-game road losing streak Thursday night.
The Dream (16-14) held off a late rally and never trailed in the contest. The victory moved them a half-game up on Chicago in the race for the No. 4 seed and a first-round bye in the playoffs.
McCoughtry had her third double-double of the season and Elizabeth Williams added 15 points and 12 rebounds.
The Dream had their largest lead at 67-49, but Los Angeles came within 80-78 on Kristi Toliver’s 3-pointer with 59 seconds left. McCoughtry and Layshia Clarendon each hit a pair of free throws and McCoughtry had a steal and layup to secure the win.
The Sparks (24-7) have gone 4-6 since their historic 20-1 start to the season but have already clinched a top-two seed and will automatically advance to the semifinals. Essence Carson, Chelsea Gray and Candace Parker finished with 16 points each. Nneka Ogwumike scored 15.
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