LA Sparks upset WNBA leaders Minnesota Lynx 87-85 behind Dearica Hamby’s 29 points. Playoff implications analyzed. Key stats & rematch preview.
MINNEAPOLIS – In a seismic WNBA upset, the last-place Los Angeles Sparks (4-13) dethroned conference leaders Minnesota Lynx (11-4) 87-85 on June 14. The shock victory derails the Lynx’s 7-game win streak and injects new drama into the playoff race, proving no team is safe in this fiercely competitive season.
Pre-Game Context: Lynx Dominance vs. Sparks Struggle
Minnesota entered as overwhelming favorites:
- Lynx Form: Best record in WNBA, #1 defensive rating (93.2)
- Sparks Form: 4-12 record, worst offense (73.8 PPG)
- Odds: Lynx favored by 10 points (DraftKings)
First Half: Lynx Control Falters
Minnesota led 48-41 at halftime behind Napheesa Collier’s 15 points, but cracks appeared:
- Turnover issues (8 in Q2)
- Inconsistent perimeter defense
- Sparks’ Rickea Jackson exploited mismatches for 12 points
Second Half Surge: Hamby’s Revenge Game
Former Lynx forward Dearica Hamby dominated with 29 points, 14 rebounds:
“They doubted us. This win was personal.” – Hamby post-game
- Scored 11 in critical 4th quarter
- Held Collier to 2/7 shooting in clutch minutes
Key Stat Breakdown
| Category | Lynx | Sparks |
|---|---|---|
| FG% | 41.2% | 48.6% |
| Rebounds | 32 | 44 |
| Turnovers | 16 | 12 |
| Source: WNBA Official Stats |
Star Performances
Minnesota Lynx:
- Napheesa Collier: 24 PTS, 9 REB
- Kayla McBride: 18 PTS (4/10 3PT)
Los Angeles Sparks:
- Dearica Hamby: 29 PTS, 14 REB
- Kia Nurse: 18 PTS (4 3-pointers)
Why This Matters: Playoff Implications
The upset:
- Exposes Lynx’s vulnerability against aggressive rebounding
- Gives Sparks momentum ahead of critical homestand
- Tightens West standings: Aces now just 1.5 games behind Lynx
What’s Next?
- Lynx: Must regroup vs. Dallas Wings (June 18)
- Sparks: Host Chicago Sky (June 16) seeking streak
- Rematch: June 24 in Los Angeles (potential statement game)
The Bottom Line: This result upends the WNBA power structure, proving Hamby and the Sparks can compete with elite teams. For the Lynx, it’s a wake-up call: Championship aspirations require consistency against all opponents. The June 24 rematch could redefine both teams’ seasons.