Good things come in small packages for the Los Angeles Sparks of the WNBA, and their small package with a big diamond inside is Kristi Toliver.
Since joining the Sparks after spending the first part of the basketball season in Europe, Toliver has upgraded the team’s overall play.
By now one of the best shooting guards in the league, her defense has improved, too. Last Friday she set a team record, 43 points in a win against Tulsa. This was the Sparks’s second win in a row after losing their record is 2-8.
“This is a guards’ game,” Toliver said.
“We have to be on the same page on the perimeter. We are continuing to learn how to play together right now.”
She says the only two concepts the players can control are energy and effort.
“We have to keep our poise and get better,” Tolliver said.
The Sparks’ most consistent player this season is center-forward Jantel Lavender. “We need to keep fighting,” said Lavender. “Every team in this league is tough. My job is to keep the post players under control. I try to stay persistent and go after the rebounds.”
Nneka Ogwumike and Erin Phillips are now helping the Sparks in the front court at the guard position after recovering from early season injuries.
“I take pride in the toughness I bring to the team,” said Phillips after she scored 20 points against the Mercury. “It’s an Australian tradition. I hold that at the top of my list. I can always control my effort and attitude.”
The Sparks are on the road for their next two games against Tulsa on Saturday and Seattle on Wednesday. They return home to the Staples Center next Thursday against Atlanta at 12:30. On Tuesday, July 21, they host Phoenix at 8 and Wednesday, July 22, against New York at 7:30.
Mr. Finley may be contacted at sfinley50@aol.com
