Marina Mabrey lit up the court with 20 points, matching her career high by sinking six 3-pointers, while Elizabeth Williams contributed a robust performance with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and four blocks, propelling the Chicago Sky to an 83-73 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks on Thursday night, marking their inaugural home win of the season.
Mabrey’s stellar shot from beyond the arc secured Chicago a commanding 21-point advantage with 6:59 left in the third quarter. However, Los Angeles mounted a fierce comeback, closing the gap with a 20-8 run, narrowing the deficit to 67-58 as they entered the final quarter. The Sky grappled with discipline, committing 10 fouls and six turnovers in the third quarter, which allowed the Sparks to tally 27 points.
In a critical moment, Rickea Jackson’s three-point play brought Los Angeles within nine points at 78-69 with 2:16 remaining, but rookie sensation Angel Reese responded with consecutive baskets in the lane, extending Chicago’s lead to a comfortable 82-69.
The Sparks struggled with ball control, recording 18 turnovers.
Dana Evans was a defensive powerhouse, nabbing four of the Sky’s 13 steals and contributing 15 points. Chennedy Carter also shone with 14 points for Chicago (3-3). Reese, despite picking up her fifth foul with 8:22 left in the fourth quarter, managed to add six points and six rebounds over her 25-minute stint.
Dearica Hamby delivered an impressive double-double for Los Angeles (2-5) with 24 points and 13 rebounds, while Kia Nurse chipped in 17 points. Jackson finished with 10 points, and rookie Cameron Brink added seven points and six rebounds in 22 minutes of play.
In the first half, Evans scored 11 points and Carter added 10, enabling Chicago to establish a 49-31 lead. The Sky exhibited sharp shooting, hitting 51% from the field in the first half and at one point holding a 20-point lead.