In front of a sold out crowd at the Target Center in Minnesota, the Los Angeles Sparks over came a late game rally to defeat the Minnesota Lynx, 77-76, to win the franchise’s third WNBA championship.
The game winner would come courtesy of league MVP Nneka Ogwumike who willed an awkward fall away jumper with three seconds on the clock to put the Sparks up 77-76 to win the best of five series.
Trailing for the greater part of the game, the Sparks rallied to take the lead in the forth quarter thanks to sharp shooting from point guard Chelsea Gray. Scoring six points in the quarter, Gray’s play energized the Sparks into action after looking uninspired for long stretches. Unwilling to give up, the Lynx called a time out and returned to action to obliterate the Sparks lead with under three minutes left in regulations. After a Sparks timeout, Lynx point guard Lindsey Whalen intercepted the inbound pass and lobbed to center Seimone Agustus to tie the game at 73-73. After Tolliver missed a 3-point attempt for the Sparks the Lynx regained possession with Maya Moore attempted a jump shot. Missing the mark Rebekkah Brunson picked up the rebound and was fouled in the paint. Making one of two free throws at the line, the Sparks regained the ball with 23.8 seconds left leading to Ogwumike’s fall away jumper.
During the post-game court interview Candace Parker could barely contain her joy with the victory. Overcome with emotion Parker dedicated the game to mentor Pat Summitt who died of Cancer this year.
“This is for Pat. This is for Pat.” Parker said as the tears flowed.
With the championship trophy in hand, Candace Parker was named the finals MVP. Expressing pride and love for her team, a joyous Parker spoke from her heart.
“I know this sounds cliche but I love my team.”
This is the Sparks’ first WNBA championship since 2002.