LOS ANGELES, CA – MAY 25: The Los Angeles Sparks reminded everyone that they’re far from finished this season. Led by Kelsey Plum’s explosive 28-point night and Dearica Hamby’s defensive clinic, the Sparks toppled the visiting Chicago Sky 91–78 at Crypto.com Arena, giving the home crowd plenty to cheer about.
After an even first half, the Sparks ignited in the third quarter, outscoring the Sky 33–25 behind a barrage of threes from Plum. Her energy shifted the game’s tone, especially after her “too small” gesture aimed at Angel Reese following a fearless drive to the basket. The moment wasn’t just petty—it was pivotal.
Azura Stevens quietly turned in a dominant performance of her own, adding 24 points and 8 rebounds while keeping the Sparks’ interior steady. Meanwhile, Hamby filled every column of the box score with 10 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, and 6 steals. Her presence was disruptive, in the best way possible.
Chicago’s Angel Reese managed a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds, but the Sky couldn’t find a rhythm in the second half. Their late-game push was halted when rookie Sarah Ashlee Barker drilled a clutch three that effectively ended any hopes of a comeback.
Odyssey Sims added 12 points off the bench, while Barker finished with a season-high 9. The Sparks’ second unit delivered exactly what head coach Curt Miller has been asking for—energy, execution, and a refusal to fold.
The win moves the Sparks to 2–3 on the season, giving them momentum ahead of a key upcoming matchup against the Atlanta Dream. After a shaky start to the season, this game felt like a line in the sand—a declaration that this version of the Sparks is ready to fight.
As fans filed out, the postgame buzz centered around Plum’s resurgence and Hamby’s versatility. It wasn’t just a win. It was a warning.
