On Tuesday, August 25, the Los Angeles Sparks (17-18) will host the Phoenix Mercury (22-14) in a WNBA regular-season match-up.
The Sparks enter the match-up after a thrilling 81-80 win over the Dallas Wings. Kelsey Plum nailed the game-winning jumper.
Rickea Jackson’s 25-point effort helped Sparks survive Paige Bueckers’ 44-point blitz. The Sparks are ninth in the standings after the win.
On the other hand, the Mercury defeated the Golden State Valkyries 81-72. Alyssa Thomas’ sixth triple-double and Monique Akoa Makani’s 16-point night played a huge role, too.
The Mercury is currently 4th in the standings.
Can the Sparks get the job done against the pesky Mercury? Check the predictions related to player props, total, and spread here.
Los Angeles Sparks
The Sparks revived their campaign through an 8-1 period. They are 3-3 since then. The team is offensively loaded but way too vulnerable on defense. Here are some facts about them:
Sparks Expected Starting Lineup
PG: Julie Allemand | PG/SG: Kelsey Plum | SF: Rickea Jackson | PF: Dearica Hamby | C: Azure Stevens
Key bench players: PF: Cameron Brink, SG: Rae Burrell, PG: Julie Vanloo.
Injuries/Updates: All fit and fine thus far.
Phoenix Mercury
The Mercury has not stamped big winning streaks, but is one of the most loaded teams. Their defense is solid, but the offense needs much more work. Here are some highlights about them:
Mercury Expected Starting Lineup
PG: Monique Akoa Makani SG: Kahleah Copper | SF/PF: Alyssa Thomas | PF: Natasha Mack | PF/C: Satou Sabally
Key bench players: SF: Kathryn Westbeld, SF: DeWanna Bonner, SF: Sami Whitcomb
Injuries/Updates: All fit and fine thus far.
The Sparks have been the best offensive unit this month. They have scored 90+ and even 100+ on numerous occasions. However, they are prone to concede these many on the end as well.
On the other hand, the Mercury are more defensive-focused. They have restricted teams to below 80 on many occasions but lately, they have preferred more high-scoring battles.
Phoenix’s offense can be a bit hot and cold. They usually score in early 80s.
Overall, the Sparks love high-scoring classics and this can be another one of those. So, I might be wise to choose “Over” here.
Total: Over 177.5 at BetMGM
Here is an overview of my selections
| Picks | BetMGM Odds |
| Total O 177.5 | -110 |
| Spread- Sparks +3.5 | -110 |
| Kelsey Plum O 20.5 Points | +100 |
| Money Line- Sparks | +150 |
Alyssa Thomas O 8.5 Rebounds: At has continued to be one of the most consistent rebounders in the league. She has pinned down at least 9 rebounds in four straight games. I see her nail at least 9 again.
Kelsey Plum O 20.5 Points: The Sparks’ leading scorer is averaging an astounding 20.4 PPG. She has tallied at least 20 in five straight games. I see another 20+ points masterpiece loading.
Rickea Jackson O 15.5 Points: Jackson is putting up 14.7 PPG but her production has been much more elevated. Jackson has scored at least 15 in four straight games. I see her booking at least 16 points here.
Main pick: Kelsey Plum O 20.5 Points for +100 at BetMGM
The Sparks have the ability to beat any team, but the lack of defensive discipline can hurt against such teams. The Mercury lost the plot some time ago but seems to be figuring it out.
LA has struggled at home way more than they should which could open a window for Phoenix. But I see the Sparks playing stable basketball on both ends.
I see the duo of Plum and Jackson propelling their team to a much-needed win and cover the spread.
Spread/Money Line Pick: Money Line: Sparks for +150 at BetMGM
Photo Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
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