WNBA Capsules
September 14, 2016
ROSEMONT, Ill. (AP) Courtney Vandersloot hit two free throws to force overtime and Cappie Pondexter made a go-ahead layup with 21.3 seconds left to help the Chicago Sky beat the Minnesota Lynx 98-97 on Tuesday night.
The Sky (17-15) moved into fourth in the WNBA standings, which comes with a first-round bye in the playoffs. Chicago has two games left this season.
The Sky also hosted 50 Cent after rookie Imani Boyette used social media to campaign for the rapper to come to a WNBA game. Actress Sophia Bush also watched Chicago's win.
Pondexter split two defenders in the lane to help Chicago to a 96-95 lead in overtime. After Minnesota jumped back in front on a Janel McCarville basket, Pondexter made another layup in traffic for a 98-97 lead. Minnesota's Renee Montgomery was called for traveling with 1.4 seconds left.
Pondexter scored 24 points for sixth-ranked Chicago. The Sky played without the reigning MVP Elena Delle Donne, who had surgery Tuesday to repair her injured right thumb.
Maya Moore scored 22 of her 27 points after halftime for top-ranked Minnesota (26-6).
SUN 89, FEVER 87
UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) - Jasmine Thomas scored 21 points and the Sun rallied for the win.
The Fever (16-16) fell one game back of Chicago for the fourth seed in the playoffs, which includes a first-round bye in the postseason.
It was a back-and-forth first half before the Fever closed with the final five points, making it 47-41 at the break. The advantage grew to 11 in the third quarter before Connecticut (12-20) rallied.
The game was tied at 80 with just over 2 minutes left before Thomas hit a 3-pointer from the wing. Jonquel Jones' three-point play with 1:07 left made it 87-82.
The Fever had a chance to tie it, but Shenise Johnson's 3-pointer from the corner bounced off the rim with 17.9 seconds left. Thomas hit two free throws to seal the win.
MYSTICS 75, LIBERTY 62
NEW YORK (AP) - Stefanie Dolson scored a career-high 23 points, Tierra Ruffin-Pratt had a season-best 19 points and Washington kept its slim playoff hopes alive.
The Mystics need to win their final two games and get some help to make the playoffs.
New York lost its first game under associate head coach Katie Smith. Head coach Bill Laimbeer, who handed over the reins for one night, will be credited with the loss. The Liberty had already clinched the third seed in the postseason.
The Mystics (13-19) made a 3-pointer on three straight possessions - two by Ally Malott - to extend their lead to 34-21 midway through the second quarter. Washington led by double digits the entire second half.
Tina Charles had 22 points and 11 rebounds for New York (21-12). Shavonte Zellous added 11 points.
STARS 71, DREAM 67
ATLANTA (AP) - Astou Ndour scored a career-high 20 points, Moriah Jefferson added 19 points and the Stars snapped a six-game losing streak.
Ndour scored 10 of San Antonio's final 14 points. She hit two free throws to give the Stars a 59-57 lead and made another one on their next possession. She added two layups and hit a 3-pointer with 35 seconds left to extend San Antonio's lead to 67-63.
Jayne Appel-Marinelli had 14 rebounds for San Antonio (7-25), which is ranked 12th in the AP power poll.
Bria Holmes scored a career-high 20 points for fourth-ranked Atlanta (16-16), which played without leading scorer Angel McCoughtry after she was suspended by the WNBA on Monday for receiving her seventh technical foul of the season.
SPARKS 90, MERCURY 85
LOS ANGELES (AP) - Nneka Ogwumike had 24 points and 10 rebounds, Chelsea Gray scored a career-high 23 points and the Sparks snapped a three-game losing streak.
Jantel Lavender added 17 points for Los Angeles (25-8), ranked second in the AP power poll.
Phoenix guard DeWanna Bonner made the first of two free throws with 1:15 left. She missed the second, ran down the rebound and Candice Dupree hit a long jumper to pull the Mercury to 84-82. But Gray answered with a pullup jumper and after a Phoenix turnover, Gray hit two free throws with 23.4 seconds left for an 88-82 lead.
Bonner had 20 points for eighth-ranked Phoenix (14-18), which is one game ahead of Washington for the final playoff spot.
September 14, 2016
ROSEMONT, Ill. (AP) Courtney Vandersloot hit two free throws to force overtime and Cappie Pondexter made a go-ahead layup with 21.3 seconds left to help the Chicago Sky beat the Minnesota Lynx 98-97 on Tuesday night.
The Sky (17-15) moved into fourth in the WNBA standings, which comes with a first-round bye in the playoffs. Chicago has two games left this season.
The Sky also hosted 50 Cent after rookie Imani Boyette used social media to campaign for the rapper to come to a WNBA game. Actress Sophia Bush also watched Chicago's win.
Pondexter split two defenders in the lane to help Chicago to a 96-95 lead in overtime. After Minnesota jumped back in front on a Janel McCarville basket, Pondexter made another layup in traffic for a 98-97 lead. Minnesota's Renee Montgomery was called for traveling with 1.4 seconds left.
Pondexter scored 24 points for sixth-ranked Chicago. The Sky played without the reigning MVP Elena Delle Donne, who had surgery Tuesday to repair her injured right thumb.
Maya Moore scored 22 of her 27 points after halftime for top-ranked Minnesota (26-6).
SUN 89, FEVER 87
UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) - Jasmine Thomas scored 21 points and the Sun rallied for the win.
The Fever (16-16) fell one game back of Chicago for the fourth seed in the playoffs, which includes a first-round bye in the postseason.
It was a back-and-forth first half before the Fever closed with the final five points, making it 47-41 at the break. The advantage grew to 11 in the third quarter before Connecticut (12-20) rallied.
The game was tied at 80 with just over 2 minutes left before Thomas hit a 3-pointer from the wing. Jonquel Jones' three-point play with 1:07 left made it 87-82.
The Fever had a chance to tie it, but Shenise Johnson's 3-pointer from the corner bounced off the rim with 17.9 seconds left. Thomas hit two free throws to seal the win.
MYSTICS 75, LIBERTY 62
NEW YORK (AP) - Stefanie Dolson scored a career-high 23 points, Tierra Ruffin-Pratt had a season-best 19 points and Washington kept its slim playoff hopes alive.
The Mystics need to win their final two games and get some help to make the playoffs.
New York lost its first game under associate head coach Katie Smith. Head coach Bill Laimbeer, who handed over the reins for one night, will be credited with the loss. The Liberty had already clinched the third seed in the postseason.
The Mystics (13-19) made a 3-pointer on three straight possessions - two by Ally Malott - to extend their lead to 34-21 midway through the second quarter. Washington led by double digits the entire second half.
Tina Charles had 22 points and 11 rebounds for New York (21-12). Shavonte Zellous added 11 points.
STARS 71, DREAM 67
ATLANTA (AP) - Astou Ndour scored a career-high 20 points, Moriah Jefferson added 19 points and the Stars snapped a six-game losing streak.
Ndour scored 10 of San Antonio's final 14 points. She hit two free throws to give the Stars a 59-57 lead and made another one on their next possession. She added two layups and hit a 3-pointer with 35 seconds left to extend San Antonio's lead to 67-63.
Jayne Appel-Marinelli had 14 rebounds for San Antonio (7-25), which is ranked 12th in the AP power poll.
Bria Holmes scored a career-high 20 points for fourth-ranked Atlanta (16-16), which played without leading scorer Angel McCoughtry after she was suspended by the WNBA on Monday for receiving her seventh technical foul of the season.
SPARKS 90, MERCURY 85
LOS ANGELES (AP) - Nneka Ogwumike had 24 points and 10 rebounds, Chelsea Gray scored a career-high 23 points and the Sparks snapped a three-game losing streak.
Jantel Lavender added 17 points for Los Angeles (25-8), ranked second in the AP power poll.
Phoenix guard DeWanna Bonner made the first of two free throws with 1:15 left. She missed the second, ran down the rebound and Candice Dupree hit a long jumper to pull the Mercury to 84-82. But Gray answered with a pullup jumper and after a Phoenix turnover, Gray hit two free throws with 23.4 seconds left for an 88-82 lead.
Bonner had 20 points for eighth-ranked Phoenix (14-18), which is one game ahead of Washington for the final playoff spot.
SCHEDULE FOR THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 15, 2016
Time (ET) Away Home Site
7:00 PM Washington Mystics Atlanta Dream Philips Arena
10:00 PM Seattle Storm Phoenix Mercury Talking Stick Resort Arena
-----------------------------
Standings
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Team Win Loss Percent GB Home Away Conf. Last 10 Streak
New York Liberty 21 12 0.636 0 10-7 11-5 11-4 5-5 L-2
Chicago Sky 17 15 0.531 3 10-6 7-9 7-8 7-3 W-2
Indiana Fever 16 16 0.500 4 7-8 9-8 8-8 6-4 L-1
Atlanta Dream 16 16 0.500 4 10-6 6-10 8-7 5-5 L-2
Washington Mystics 13 19 0.406 7 5-11 8-8 8-6 4-6 W-1
Connecticut Sun 12 20 0.375 8 7-9 5-11 3-12 6-4 W-1
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Team Win Loss Percent GB Home Away Conf. Last 10 Streak
Minnesota Lynx 26 6 0.813 0 14-2 12-4 15-1 8-2 L-1
Los Angeles Sparks 25 8 0.758 1 13-3 12-5 10-5 5-5 W-1
Seattle Storm 15 17 0.469 11 9-7 6-10 7-8 7-3 W-4
Phoenix Mercury 14 18 0.438 12 10-6 4-12 4-10 5-5 L-1
Dallas Wings 11 21 0.344 15 6-11 5-10 8-8 2-8 W-2
San Antonio Stars 7 25 0.219 19 4-12 3-13 1-13 2-8 W-1
Updated Wed Sep 14 3:08 AM EDT
Time (ET) Away Home Site
7:00 PM Washington Mystics Atlanta Dream Philips Arena
10:00 PM Seattle Storm Phoenix Mercury Talking Stick Resort Arena
-----------------------------
Standings
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Team Win Loss Percent GB Home Away Conf. Last 10 Streak
New York Liberty 21 12 0.636 0 10-7 11-5 11-4 5-5 L-2
Chicago Sky 17 15 0.531 3 10-6 7-9 7-8 7-3 W-2
Indiana Fever 16 16 0.500 4 7-8 9-8 8-8 6-4 L-1
Atlanta Dream 16 16 0.500 4 10-6 6-10 8-7 5-5 L-2
Washington Mystics 13 19 0.406 7 5-11 8-8 8-6 4-6 W-1
Connecticut Sun 12 20 0.375 8 7-9 5-11 3-12 6-4 W-1
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Team Win Loss Percent GB Home Away Conf. Last 10 Streak
Minnesota Lynx 26 6 0.813 0 14-2 12-4 15-1 8-2 L-1
Los Angeles Sparks 25 8 0.758 1 13-3 12-5 10-5 5-5 W-1
Seattle Storm 15 17 0.469 11 9-7 6-10 7-8 7-3 W-4
Phoenix Mercury 14 18 0.438 12 10-6 4-12 4-10 5-5 L-1
Dallas Wings 11 21 0.344 15 6-11 5-10 8-8 2-8 W-2
San Antonio Stars 7 25 0.219 19 4-12 3-13 1-13 2-8 W-1
Updated Wed Sep 14 3:08 AM EDT
Thursday’s six-pack
Questions, questions……we always have questions………
— Why can’t we nominate better candidates for President?
— Why can’t NFL quarterbacks call their own plays? (a few do)
— I asked someone the other night what kids learn in grade school now, and was told “Common Core”. What the hell is that? (OK, I googled it so now I kind of know, but why weren’t all kids taught the same things?)
— Why doesn’t MLB Network show some Japanese games, so we can see what they look like? I’ve never seen one.
— If you asked 20 high school kids what a phone booth is, how many would know the right answer?
— Major league umpires are on road seven months at a time, except for All-Star break and a vacation; do they have actual homes?
Thursday’s List of 13: Doing some thinking out loud……….
13) Dick Vitale has raised over $18M to fight cancer; he really does so much great work fundraising to promote research for battling cancer, especially pediatric cancer. He deserves a lot of credit; he is 77 and still has so much energy. Good for him.
12) I get frustrated when people say they cannot write– anyone can write!!!! If you can talk, you can write. You just sit down, visualize your thoughts and type them on a keyboard, or write them on paper. It can be intimidating at first but it is well worth the effort.
Or you can talk into a tape recorder and transcribe what you said and there…….you have written!!!!
11) Joe West has been a major league umpire for 40 years; that’s really impressive. I’m just impressed that anyone can stand up for three consecutive hours without eating anything.
10) Baltimore Orioles have 17 stolen bases…..all season. 26 players have more than them.
9) St Louis Cardinals haven’t scored a run in their last 28 games against Cubs closer Aroldis Chapman, that covers five years.
8) Why would anyone play baseball and bat right-handed? There is no tangible advantage to batting righty, but there is to batting lefty– you’re that much closer to first base!!! Always amazes me.
7) Eagles’ long-snapper Jon Dorenbos is a magician who is a finalist on a talent program– America’s Got Talent. We wish him well.
Young man had a tough childhood; when he was 12, his father murdered his mother, and Jon had to testify at his father’s trial. At age 12.
6) LSU has 44 alums in the NFL this year, most of any college. Next are Alabama (42), Florida State (41), Ohio State (39).
5) The Big X is talking about expanding to more than the current 10 teams, but apparently Oklahoma State doesn’t want front-running contender Houston to join the league- the Cowboys recruit the Houston area heavily and if the Cougars were to join the Big X, that would probably cripple OSU’s recruiting.
4) 2017 baseball schedule was released Wednesday; things start with two games April 2, then the real Opening Day is Monday, April 3. There is one scheduled doubleheader next year; A’s @ Tampa Bay, the first scheduled twinbill in the major leagues in six years.
3) Texas Rangers finished their season series with their in-state rival Astros with a 15-4 record. Rangers lead Houston by 10.5 games, so they’re basically even except for the games against each other.
2) Time management is one thing I need to get a better handle on; even in retirement from my day job, that only freed up 45 or hours a week, and roughly half of that is eaten up by sleeping a normal amount, which I never did before, so having the discipline not to waste time is important.
1– Jerry Jones bought the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 for $142M. Now they’re worth $4.2B. Not sure if Jones will ever get in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but he damn sure should be in the Rich Guys Hall of Fame.
Questions, questions……we always have questions………
— Why can’t we nominate better candidates for President?
— Why can’t NFL quarterbacks call their own plays? (a few do)
— I asked someone the other night what kids learn in grade school now, and was told “Common Core”. What the hell is that? (OK, I googled it so now I kind of know, but why weren’t all kids taught the same things?)
— Why doesn’t MLB Network show some Japanese games, so we can see what they look like? I’ve never seen one.
— If you asked 20 high school kids what a phone booth is, how many would know the right answer?
— Major league umpires are on road seven months at a time, except for All-Star break and a vacation; do they have actual homes?
Thursday’s List of 13: Doing some thinking out loud……….
13) Dick Vitale has raised over $18M to fight cancer; he really does so much great work fundraising to promote research for battling cancer, especially pediatric cancer. He deserves a lot of credit; he is 77 and still has so much energy. Good for him.
12) I get frustrated when people say they cannot write– anyone can write!!!! If you can talk, you can write. You just sit down, visualize your thoughts and type them on a keyboard, or write them on paper. It can be intimidating at first but it is well worth the effort.
Or you can talk into a tape recorder and transcribe what you said and there…….you have written!!!!
11) Joe West has been a major league umpire for 40 years; that’s really impressive. I’m just impressed that anyone can stand up for three consecutive hours without eating anything.
10) Baltimore Orioles have 17 stolen bases…..all season. 26 players have more than them.
9) St Louis Cardinals haven’t scored a run in their last 28 games against Cubs closer Aroldis Chapman, that covers five years.
8) Why would anyone play baseball and bat right-handed? There is no tangible advantage to batting righty, but there is to batting lefty– you’re that much closer to first base!!! Always amazes me.
7) Eagles’ long-snapper Jon Dorenbos is a magician who is a finalist on a talent program– America’s Got Talent. We wish him well.
Young man had a tough childhood; when he was 12, his father murdered his mother, and Jon had to testify at his father’s trial. At age 12.
6) LSU has 44 alums in the NFL this year, most of any college. Next are Alabama (42), Florida State (41), Ohio State (39).
5) The Big X is talking about expanding to more than the current 10 teams, but apparently Oklahoma State doesn’t want front-running contender Houston to join the league- the Cowboys recruit the Houston area heavily and if the Cougars were to join the Big X, that would probably cripple OSU’s recruiting.
4) 2017 baseball schedule was released Wednesday; things start with two games April 2, then the real Opening Day is Monday, April 3. There is one scheduled doubleheader next year; A’s @ Tampa Bay, the first scheduled twinbill in the major leagues in six years.
3) Texas Rangers finished their season series with their in-state rival Astros with a 15-4 record. Rangers lead Houston by 10.5 games, so they’re basically even except for the games against each other.
2) Time management is one thing I need to get a better handle on; even in retirement from my day job, that only freed up 45 or hours a week, and roughly half of that is eaten up by sleeping a normal amount, which I never did before, so having the discipline not to waste time is important.
1– Jerry Jones bought the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 for $142M. Now they’re worth $4.2B. Not sure if Jones will ever get in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but he damn sure should be in the Rich Guys Hall of Fame.
Preview: Mystics (13-19) at Dream (16-16)
Date: September 15, 2016 7:00 PM EDT
In order to keep their playoff hopes alive, the Washington Mystics must win Thursday when they visit the Atlanta Dream at Philips Arena in Atlanta.
That won't be easy against an Atlanta team that still has plenty of incentive to play well as it closes out the regular season.
Atlanta (16-16) is tied with the Indiana Fever for third place in the WNBA's Eastern Conference, one game behind the second-place Chicago Sky and 4 1/2 games behind the first-place New York Liberty. Chicago would be seeded fourth if the playoffs began today, but the Dream still has a chance to secure the No. 4 seed and a first-round bye.
Washington (13-19) is fifth in the Eastern Conference, three games behind Atlanta and Indiana. More importantly, the Mystics are one game behind the Phoenix Mercury for the final playoff spot.
One win by Phoenix or one loss by Washington would give the Mercury the No. 8 seed and eliminate the Mystics from playoff contention. Phoenix swept the season series against Washington and will hold the tiebreaker advantage should they finish with identical records.
The Mercury will play the Seattle Storm later Thursday night before concluding the regular season against the San Antonio Stars on Sunday. The Mystics will end the regular season Sunday against the Connecticut Sun.
Washington had lost two in a row to put its playoff hopes in peril before upsetting New York 75-62 on Tuesday. Stefanie Dolson had 23 points, seven rebounds, four assists and three blocked shots. Tierra Ruffin-Pratt added 19 points and six rebounds. The Mystics shot just 38.7 percent from the field, but they held the Liberty to 32.8-percent shooting.
Atlanta has lost two in a row and three of its last five. The Dream are coming off a 71-67 loss to San Antonio. Bria Holmes scored 20 points in the loss while Elizabeth Williams had 17 points and 12 rebounds. The Dream shot 30.7 percent from the field and made 2 of 18 from 3-point range while allowing the Stars to shoot 42.2 percent.
WNBA HEAD TO HEAD
Jun 18, 2016 Score ATS Results
ATL 65 Under: 160
WAS « 95 Cover: 25.5
Tools: Recaps
Jun 5, 2016 Score ATS Results
WAS « 86 Cover: 16.5
ATL 79 Over: 165
Tools: Recaps
Date: September 15, 2016 7:00 PM EDT
In order to keep their playoff hopes alive, the Washington Mystics must win Thursday when they visit the Atlanta Dream at Philips Arena in Atlanta.
That won't be easy against an Atlanta team that still has plenty of incentive to play well as it closes out the regular season.
Atlanta (16-16) is tied with the Indiana Fever for third place in the WNBA's Eastern Conference, one game behind the second-place Chicago Sky and 4 1/2 games behind the first-place New York Liberty. Chicago would be seeded fourth if the playoffs began today, but the Dream still has a chance to secure the No. 4 seed and a first-round bye.
Washington (13-19) is fifth in the Eastern Conference, three games behind Atlanta and Indiana. More importantly, the Mystics are one game behind the Phoenix Mercury for the final playoff spot.
One win by Phoenix or one loss by Washington would give the Mercury the No. 8 seed and eliminate the Mystics from playoff contention. Phoenix swept the season series against Washington and will hold the tiebreaker advantage should they finish with identical records.
The Mercury will play the Seattle Storm later Thursday night before concluding the regular season against the San Antonio Stars on Sunday. The Mystics will end the regular season Sunday against the Connecticut Sun.
Washington had lost two in a row to put its playoff hopes in peril before upsetting New York 75-62 on Tuesday. Stefanie Dolson had 23 points, seven rebounds, four assists and three blocked shots. Tierra Ruffin-Pratt added 19 points and six rebounds. The Mystics shot just 38.7 percent from the field, but they held the Liberty to 32.8-percent shooting.
Atlanta has lost two in a row and three of its last five. The Dream are coming off a 71-67 loss to San Antonio. Bria Holmes scored 20 points in the loss while Elizabeth Williams had 17 points and 12 rebounds. The Dream shot 30.7 percent from the field and made 2 of 18 from 3-point range while allowing the Stars to shoot 42.2 percent.
WNBA HEAD TO HEAD
Jun 18, 2016 Score ATS Results
ATL 65 Under: 160
WAS « 95 Cover: 25.5
Tools: Recaps
Jun 5, 2016 Score ATS Results
WAS « 86 Cover: 16.5
ATL 79 Over: 165
Tools: Recaps
Preview: Storm (15-17) at Mercury (14-18)
Date: September 15, 2016 10:00 PM EDT
The Phoenix Mercury can clinch the WNBA's final playoff spot with a win over the Seattle Storm on Thursday at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix.
Seattle (15-17) has already secured its place in the postseason. The Storm is third in the Western Conference, 11 games behind the first-place Minnesota Lynx and 9 1/2 games behind the second-place Los Angeles Sparks.
Phoenix (14-18) is fourth in the Western Conference, one game behind Seattle in the West and, more importantly, one game ahead of the Washington Mystics for the final playoff berth. One win by Phoenix or one loss by Washington would give the Mercury the No. 8 seed and eliminate the Mystics from playoff contention.
Phoenix swept the season series against Washington and will hold the tiebreaker advantage should they finish with identical records. The Mystics will play the Atlanta Dream earlier Thursday night and conclude the regular season Sunday against the Connecticut Sun. The Mercury will end the regular season against the San Antonio Stars on Sunday.
Phoenix has lost four of its last five games to put its playoff hopes in jeopardy. The Mercury is coming off a 90-85 loss to Los Angeles. DeWanna Bonner came off the bench to score 20 points in the loss. Brittney Griner had 19 points, 16 rebounds and three blocked shots.
The Mercury shot 44.9 percent and led by as many as 14 midway through the third quarter, but the Sparks rallied to win behind Nneka Ogwumike and Chelsea Gray.
Seattle is surging as it prepares for the playoffs. The Storm have won four in a row by an average of 14 points per game, including a 102-78 rout of the Eastern Conference-leading New York Liberty and a 78-60 victory over Los Angeles.
All five starters scored in double figures in the win over Los Angeles. Breanna Stewart had 20 points and eight rebounds while Crystal Langhorne added 15 points and 10 rebounds.
WNBA HEAD TO HEAD
Jun 3, 2016 Score ATS Results
PHO 81 Over: 176
SEA « 95 Cover: 20
Tools: Recaps
May 20, 2016 Score ATS Results
SEA « 81 Cover: 12.5
PHO 80 Under: 161
Tools: Recaps
Date: September 15, 2016 10:00 PM EDT
The Phoenix Mercury can clinch the WNBA's final playoff spot with a win over the Seattle Storm on Thursday at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix.
Seattle (15-17) has already secured its place in the postseason. The Storm is third in the Western Conference, 11 games behind the first-place Minnesota Lynx and 9 1/2 games behind the second-place Los Angeles Sparks.
Phoenix (14-18) is fourth in the Western Conference, one game behind Seattle in the West and, more importantly, one game ahead of the Washington Mystics for the final playoff berth. One win by Phoenix or one loss by Washington would give the Mercury the No. 8 seed and eliminate the Mystics from playoff contention.
Phoenix swept the season series against Washington and will hold the tiebreaker advantage should they finish with identical records. The Mystics will play the Atlanta Dream earlier Thursday night and conclude the regular season Sunday against the Connecticut Sun. The Mercury will end the regular season against the San Antonio Stars on Sunday.
Phoenix has lost four of its last five games to put its playoff hopes in jeopardy. The Mercury is coming off a 90-85 loss to Los Angeles. DeWanna Bonner came off the bench to score 20 points in the loss. Brittney Griner had 19 points, 16 rebounds and three blocked shots.
The Mercury shot 44.9 percent and led by as many as 14 midway through the third quarter, but the Sparks rallied to win behind Nneka Ogwumike and Chelsea Gray.
Seattle is surging as it prepares for the playoffs. The Storm have won four in a row by an average of 14 points per game, including a 102-78 rout of the Eastern Conference-leading New York Liberty and a 78-60 victory over Los Angeles.
All five starters scored in double figures in the win over Los Angeles. Breanna Stewart had 20 points and eight rebounds while Crystal Langhorne added 15 points and 10 rebounds.
WNBA HEAD TO HEAD
Jun 3, 2016 Score ATS Results
PHO 81 Over: 176
SEA « 95 Cover: 20
Tools: Recaps
May 20, 2016 Score ATS Results
SEA « 81 Cover: 12.5
PHO 80 Under: 161
Tools: Recaps
WNBA
Dunkel
Thursday, September 15
Washington @ Atlanta
Game 601-602
September 15, 2016 @ 7:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Washington
111.604
Atlanta
110.902
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Washington
by 1
157
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Atlanta
by 3
163 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Washington
(+3); Under
Seattle @ Phoenix
Game 603-604
September 15, 2016 @ 10:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Seattle
115.649
Phoenix
113.230
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Seattle
by 2 1/2
156
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Phoenix
by 6
163 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Seattle
(+6); Under
WNBA
Long Sheet
Thursday, September 15
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WASHINGTON (13 - 19) at ATLANTA (16 - 16) - 9/15/2016, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 295-349 ATS (-88.9 Units) in all games since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 173-220 ATS (-69.0 Units) after a division game since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 22-44 ATS (-26.4 Units) after 3 or more consecutive unders since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 23-12 ATS (+9.8 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 7-3 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
ATLANTA is 7-3 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
7 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SEATTLE (15 - 17) at PHOENIX (14 - 18) - 9/15/2016, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 15-31 ATS (-19.1 Units) in road games when playing with 3 or more days rest since 1997.
SEATTLE is 72-99 ATS (-36.9 Units) in road games after a division game since 1997.
SEATTLE is 37-57 ATS (-25.7 Units) off an upset win as an underdog since 1997.
SEATTLE is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in August or September games this season.
SEATTLE is 111-80 ATS (+23.0 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game since 1997.
PHOENIX is 27-41 ATS (-18.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 17-31 ATS (-17.1 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 11-22 ATS (-13.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 13-23 ATS (-12.3 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
PHOENIX is 8-3 against the spread versus SEATTLE over the last 3 seasons
PHOENIX is 9-2 straight up against SEATTLE over the last 3 seasons
5 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WNBA
Thursday, September 15
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7:00 PM
WASHINGTON vs. ATLANTA
Washington is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 13 of Washington's last 18 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Atlanta's last 14 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Atlanta's last 17 games when playing at home against Washington
10:00 PM
SEATTLE vs. PHOENIX
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Seattle's last 10 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
Seattle is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Phoenix's last 6 games when playing Seattle
Phoenix is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Seattle
Dunkel
Thursday, September 15
Washington @ Atlanta
Game 601-602
September 15, 2016 @ 7:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Washington
111.604
Atlanta
110.902
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Washington
by 1
157
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Atlanta
by 3
163 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Washington
(+3); Under
Seattle @ Phoenix
Game 603-604
September 15, 2016 @ 10:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Seattle
115.649
Phoenix
113.230
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Seattle
by 2 1/2
156
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Phoenix
by 6
163 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Seattle
(+6); Under
WNBA
Long Sheet
Thursday, September 15
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WASHINGTON (13 - 19) at ATLANTA (16 - 16) - 9/15/2016, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 295-349 ATS (-88.9 Units) in all games since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 173-220 ATS (-69.0 Units) after a division game since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 22-44 ATS (-26.4 Units) after 3 or more consecutive unders since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 23-12 ATS (+9.8 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 7-3 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
ATLANTA is 7-3 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
7 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SEATTLE (15 - 17) at PHOENIX (14 - 18) - 9/15/2016, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 15-31 ATS (-19.1 Units) in road games when playing with 3 or more days rest since 1997.
SEATTLE is 72-99 ATS (-36.9 Units) in road games after a division game since 1997.
SEATTLE is 37-57 ATS (-25.7 Units) off an upset win as an underdog since 1997.
SEATTLE is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in August or September games this season.
SEATTLE is 111-80 ATS (+23.0 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game since 1997.
PHOENIX is 27-41 ATS (-18.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 17-31 ATS (-17.1 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 11-22 ATS (-13.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 13-23 ATS (-12.3 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
PHOENIX is 8-3 against the spread versus SEATTLE over the last 3 seasons
PHOENIX is 9-2 straight up against SEATTLE over the last 3 seasons
5 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WNBA
Thursday, September 15
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7:00 PM
WASHINGTON vs. ATLANTA
Washington is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 13 of Washington's last 18 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Atlanta's last 14 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Atlanta's last 17 games when playing at home against Washington
10:00 PM
SEATTLE vs. PHOENIX
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Seattle's last 10 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
Seattle is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Phoenix's last 6 games when playing Seattle
Phoenix is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Seattle
NCAAF
Short Sheet
Week 3
Thurs – Sept. 15
Houston at Cincinnati, 7:30 PM ET
Houston: 8-1 ATS in road lined games
Cincinnati: 3-10 ATS when the total is between 63.5 and 70
Fri – Sept. 16
Baylor at Rice, 8:00 PM ET
Baylor: 4-7 ATS off 1 or more consecutive unders
Rice: 5-1 ATS after a game with a turnover margin of -2 or worse
Arizona State at UTSA, 9:30 PM ET
Arizona St: 5-1 ATS when the total is between 56.5 and 63
UTSA: 3-10 ATS after a game where they forced 1 or less turnovers
Arkansas State at Utah State, 9:00 PM ET
Arkansas St: 12-3 ATS in road games after being outrushed by 150 or more yards last game
Utah St: 3-12 ATS in home games after a loss by 28 or more points
----------------------------------
NCAAF
Dunkel
Week 3
Thursday, September 15
Houston @ Cincinnati
Game 103-104
September 15, 2016 @ 7:30 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Houston
107.647
Cincinnati
93.633
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Houston
by 14
72
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Houston
by 7 1/2
64
Dunkel Pick:
Houston
(-7 1/2); Over
Friday, September 16
Arizona State @ Utah State
Game 107-108
September 16, 2016 @ 9:30 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Arizona State
99.256
Utah State
62.816
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Arizona State
by 36 1/2
68
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Arizona State
by 19
60 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Arizona State
(-19); Over
Western Michigan @ Illinois
Game 113-114
September 16, 2016 @ 4:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Western Michigan
89.565
Illinois
88.391
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Western Michigan
by 1
62
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Western Michigan
by 3 1/2
55 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Illinois
(+3 1/2); Over
Baylor @ Rice
Game 105-106
September 16, 2016 @ 8:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Baylor
103.030
Rice
76.562
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Baylor
by 26 1/2
61
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Baylor
30 1/2
66
Dunkel Pick:
Rice
(+30 1/2); Under
Arkansas St @ Utah State
Game 109-110
September 16, 2016 @ 9:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Arkansas St
76.465
Utah State
82.967
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Utah State
by 6 1/2
65
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Utah State
by 9 1/2
57
Dunkel Pick:
Arkansas St
(+9 1/2); Over
----------------------------
NCAAF
Armadillo's Write-Up
Week 3
Thursday’s game
Houston QB Ward (shoulder) sat out last week’s cakewalk; he is expected back here. Cougars lost five of its last six vs Cincinnati, losing last four visits here (0-3-1 vs spread) by average score of 44-30. Underdogs are 6-2-1 vs spread in last nine series games. This figures to be Houston’s toughest game until Nov 19 game vs Louisville. Bearcats had 262 rushing yards in 38-20 win LW at Purdue, but Boilers also threw for 401 yards, red flag vs Ward. Cincy was +5 in TOs last week.
Friday’s games
Baylor (-33) hammered Rice 70-17 LY, running for 427 yards; Bears have new coach now- they are 4-0 vs spread in last four games vs Rice. Baylor ran ball for 275 yards, passed for 261 yards LW; last five years, they’re 4-9-1 as road favorites. Rice lost its first two points, giving up 46-31 points to WKU/Army. Hilltoppers threw for 552 yards, Army ran for 348. Last 5+ years, Big X teams are 16-11 vs spread vs C-USA teams, 9-5 the last 2+ years.
Arizona State beat Texas Tech 68-55 LW, running for 301 yards, throwing for 351; they also gave up 909 passing yards in two games, including 369 to I-AA Northern Arizona. ASU is 6-3 as road favorite under Graham- they open Pac-12 play with Cal next week. UTSA was outgained 328-235 in 23-14 loss at Colorado State LW. Roadrunners are 5-5 as home underdogs. Last five years, C-USA teams are 4-3 vs spread when facing a Pac-12 squad.
Utah State got hammered 45-7 at USC LW; Aggies have only three starters back on defense- they’re 12-8 in last 20 games as a home favorite. Arkansas State gave up 82 points in losing its first two games, by 21-37 points. Two years ago, Aggies (+.5) lost 21-14 in Jonesboro. Last 5+ years, Sun Belt teams are 7-4 vs spread when facing a Mountain West foe. Mountain West favorites are 2-4 vs spread; Sun Belt road underdogs are 5-3.
Short Sheet
Week 3
Thurs – Sept. 15
Houston at Cincinnati, 7:30 PM ET
Houston: 8-1 ATS in road lined games
Cincinnati: 3-10 ATS when the total is between 63.5 and 70
Fri – Sept. 16
Baylor at Rice, 8:00 PM ET
Baylor: 4-7 ATS off 1 or more consecutive unders
Rice: 5-1 ATS after a game with a turnover margin of -2 or worse
Arizona State at UTSA, 9:30 PM ET
Arizona St: 5-1 ATS when the total is between 56.5 and 63
UTSA: 3-10 ATS after a game where they forced 1 or less turnovers
Arkansas State at Utah State, 9:00 PM ET
Arkansas St: 12-3 ATS in road games after being outrushed by 150 or more yards last game
Utah St: 3-12 ATS in home games after a loss by 28 or more points
----------------------------------
NCAAF
Dunkel
Week 3
Thursday, September 15
Houston @ Cincinnati
Game 103-104
September 15, 2016 @ 7:30 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Houston
107.647
Cincinnati
93.633
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Houston
by 14
72
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Houston
by 7 1/2
64
Dunkel Pick:
Houston
(-7 1/2); Over
Friday, September 16
Arizona State @ Utah State
Game 107-108
September 16, 2016 @ 9:30 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Arizona State
99.256
Utah State
62.816
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Arizona State
by 36 1/2
68
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Arizona State
by 19
60 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Arizona State
(-19); Over
Western Michigan @ Illinois
Game 113-114
September 16, 2016 @ 4:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Western Michigan
89.565
Illinois
88.391
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Western Michigan
by 1
62
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Western Michigan
by 3 1/2
55 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Illinois
(+3 1/2); Over
Baylor @ Rice
Game 105-106
September 16, 2016 @ 8:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Baylor
103.030
Rice
76.562
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Baylor
by 26 1/2
61
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Baylor
30 1/2
66
Dunkel Pick:
Rice
(+30 1/2); Under
Arkansas St @ Utah State
Game 109-110
September 16, 2016 @ 9:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Arkansas St
76.465
Utah State
82.967
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Utah State
by 6 1/2
65
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Utah State
by 9 1/2
57
Dunkel Pick:
Arkansas St
(+9 1/2); Over
----------------------------
NCAAF
Armadillo's Write-Up
Week 3
Thursday’s game
Houston QB Ward (shoulder) sat out last week’s cakewalk; he is expected back here. Cougars lost five of its last six vs Cincinnati, losing last four visits here (0-3-1 vs spread) by average score of 44-30. Underdogs are 6-2-1 vs spread in last nine series games. This figures to be Houston’s toughest game until Nov 19 game vs Louisville. Bearcats had 262 rushing yards in 38-20 win LW at Purdue, but Boilers also threw for 401 yards, red flag vs Ward. Cincy was +5 in TOs last week.
Friday’s games
Baylor (-33) hammered Rice 70-17 LY, running for 427 yards; Bears have new coach now- they are 4-0 vs spread in last four games vs Rice. Baylor ran ball for 275 yards, passed for 261 yards LW; last five years, they’re 4-9-1 as road favorites. Rice lost its first two points, giving up 46-31 points to WKU/Army. Hilltoppers threw for 552 yards, Army ran for 348. Last 5+ years, Big X teams are 16-11 vs spread vs C-USA teams, 9-5 the last 2+ years.
Arizona State beat Texas Tech 68-55 LW, running for 301 yards, throwing for 351; they also gave up 909 passing yards in two games, including 369 to I-AA Northern Arizona. ASU is 6-3 as road favorite under Graham- they open Pac-12 play with Cal next week. UTSA was outgained 328-235 in 23-14 loss at Colorado State LW. Roadrunners are 5-5 as home underdogs. Last five years, C-USA teams are 4-3 vs spread when facing a Pac-12 squad.
Utah State got hammered 45-7 at USC LW; Aggies have only three starters back on defense- they’re 12-8 in last 20 games as a home favorite. Arkansas State gave up 82 points in losing its first two games, by 21-37 points. Two years ago, Aggies (+.5) lost 21-14 in Jonesboro. Last 5+ years, Sun Belt teams are 7-4 vs spread when facing a Mountain West foe. Mountain West favorites are 2-4 vs spread; Sun Belt road underdogs are 5-3.
WNBA Capsules
September 16, 2016
PHOENIX (AP) Brittney Griner scored 21 points and Penny Taylor had eight in her final regular-season home game to help the Phoenix Mercury beat the Seattle Storm 86-62.
Taylor announced her retirement at the end of July. The Australian international was a three-time All-Star during 13 WNBA seasons, beginning her WNBA career with the Cleveland Rockers in 2001 and joining Phoenix in 2004.
The Mercury (15-18) clinched a playoff spot before tipoff with Washington's loss to Atlanta.
The Storm (15-18) fell into a tie with Mercury but retained their hold on the No. 7 seed due to winning the season series. Both teams conclude the season Sunday when Phoenix visits San Antonio, and Seattle hosts Chicago.
Phoenix led by as many as 17 in the first quarter and maintained a double-digit lead the rest of the way. Seattle trailed by 24 at the break and got no closer than 65-50 late in the third quarter.
MYSTICS 94, DREAM 91
ATLANTA (AP) - Angel McCoughtry scored 31 points and Atlanta beat Washington to stay in contention for a double-bye and eliminate the Mystics from the playoff race.
Atlanta (17-16) can still surpass Chicago (17-15) for the No. 4 seed in the playoffs.
McCoughtry's pull-up basket with 1:35 left capped an 8-1 run and gave the Dream a 90-87 lead. Emma Meesseman answered with a jumper and Tayler Hill made both free throws with 13.7 seconds both to give the Mystics (13-20) a one-point lead.
Tiffany Hayes put the Dream back in front for good on a left-handed scoop shot with 9.4 seconds left and Layshia Clarendon added a pair of free throws with 4.0 seconds to go.
Hayes had 21 points, Bria Holmes added 16, and Elizabeth Williams had 13 for Atlanta.
Meesseman and Hill had 20 points each for Washington.
September 16, 2016
PHOENIX (AP) Brittney Griner scored 21 points and Penny Taylor had eight in her final regular-season home game to help the Phoenix Mercury beat the Seattle Storm 86-62.
Taylor announced her retirement at the end of July. The Australian international was a three-time All-Star during 13 WNBA seasons, beginning her WNBA career with the Cleveland Rockers in 2001 and joining Phoenix in 2004.
The Mercury (15-18) clinched a playoff spot before tipoff with Washington's loss to Atlanta.
The Storm (15-18) fell into a tie with Mercury but retained their hold on the No. 7 seed due to winning the season series. Both teams conclude the season Sunday when Phoenix visits San Antonio, and Seattle hosts Chicago.
Phoenix led by as many as 17 in the first quarter and maintained a double-digit lead the rest of the way. Seattle trailed by 24 at the break and got no closer than 65-50 late in the third quarter.
MYSTICS 94, DREAM 91
ATLANTA (AP) - Angel McCoughtry scored 31 points and Atlanta beat Washington to stay in contention for a double-bye and eliminate the Mystics from the playoff race.
Atlanta (17-16) can still surpass Chicago (17-15) for the No. 4 seed in the playoffs.
McCoughtry's pull-up basket with 1:35 left capped an 8-1 run and gave the Dream a 90-87 lead. Emma Meesseman answered with a jumper and Tayler Hill made both free throws with 13.7 seconds both to give the Mystics (13-20) a one-point lead.
Tiffany Hayes put the Dream back in front for good on a left-handed scoop shot with 9.4 seconds left and Layshia Clarendon added a pair of free throws with 4.0 seconds to go.
Hayes had 21 points, Bria Holmes added 16, and Elizabeth Williams had 13 for Atlanta.
Meesseman and Hill had 20 points each for Washington.
LEAGUE STANDINGS
Rank Team W L PCT GB CONF HOME ROAD L-10 STREAK
#1
Minnesota Lynx - x
26 6 0.813 - 15-1 14-2 12-4 8-2 L 1
#2
Los Angeles Sparks - x
25 8 0.758 1.5 10-5 13-3 12-5 5-5 W 1
#3
New York Liberty - x
21 12 0.636 5.5 11-4 10-7 11-5 5-5 L 2
#4
Chicago Sky - x
17 15 0.531 9 7-8 10-6 7-9 7-3 W 2
#5
Atlanta Dream - x
17 16 0.515 9.5 9-7 11-6 6-10 5-5 W 1
#6
Indiana Fever - x
16 16 0.500 10 8-8 7-8 9-8 6-4 L 1
#7
Seattle Storm - x
15 18 0.455 11.5 7-9 9-7 6-11 6-4 L 1
#8
Phoenix Mercury - x
15 18 0.455 11.5 5-10 11-6 4-12 5-5 W 1
#9
Washington Mystics - o
13 20 0.394 13.5 8-7 5-11 8-9 4-6 L 1
#10
Connecticut Sun - o
12 20 0.375 14 3-12 7-9 5-11 6-4 W 1
#11
Dallas Wings - o
11 21 0.344 15 8-8 6-11 5-10 2-8 W 2
#12
San Antonio Stars - o
7 25 0.219 19 1-13 4-12 3-13 2-8 W 1
Rank Team W L PCT GB CONF HOME ROAD L-10 STREAK
#1
Minnesota Lynx - x
26 6 0.813 - 15-1 14-2 12-4 8-2 L 1
#2
Los Angeles Sparks - x
25 8 0.758 1.5 10-5 13-3 12-5 5-5 W 1
#3
New York Liberty - x
21 12 0.636 5.5 11-4 10-7 11-5 5-5 L 2
#4
Chicago Sky - x
17 15 0.531 9 7-8 10-6 7-9 7-3 W 2
#5
Atlanta Dream - x
17 16 0.515 9.5 9-7 11-6 6-10 5-5 W 1
#6
Indiana Fever - x
16 16 0.500 10 8-8 7-8 9-8 6-4 L 1
#7
Seattle Storm - x
15 18 0.455 11.5 7-9 9-7 6-11 6-4 L 1
#8
Phoenix Mercury - x
15 18 0.455 11.5 5-10 11-6 4-12 5-5 W 1
#9
Washington Mystics - o
13 20 0.394 13.5 8-7 5-11 8-9 4-6 L 1
#10
Connecticut Sun - o
12 20 0.375 14 3-12 7-9 5-11 6-4 W 1
#11
Dallas Wings - o
11 21 0.344 15 8-8 6-11 5-10 2-8 W 2
#12
San Antonio Stars - o
7 25 0.219 19 1-13 4-12 3-13 2-8 W 1
WNBA
Long Sheet
Friday, September 16
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DALLAS (11 - 21) at CONNECTICUT (12 - 20) - 9/16/2016, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 12-20 ATS (-10.0 Units) in all games this season.
DALLAS is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) against Eastern conference opponents this season.
DALLAS is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) in non-conference games this season.
DALLAS is 11-19 ATS (-9.9 Units) after allowing 75 points or more this season.
DALLAS is 4-11 ATS (-8.1 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game after 15+ games this season.
CONNECTICUT is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) when playing with 2 days rest over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) against Western conference opponents this season.
CONNECTICUT is 22-12 ATS (+8.8 Units) after a division game over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in non-conference games this season.
CONNECTICUT is 15-8 ATS (+6.2 Units) after scoring 75 points or more this season.
CONNECTICUT is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record after 15+ games after 15+ games this season.
CONNECTICUT is 16-8 ATS (+7.2 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
CONNECTICUT is 4-2 against the spread versus DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
CONNECTICUT is 4-2 straight up against DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINNESOTA (26 - 6) at INDIANA (16 - 16) - 9/16/2016, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) in road games in August or September games over the last 3 seasons.
INDIANA is 41-26 ATS (+12.4 Units) after a division game over the last 3 seasons.
INDIANA is 35-19 ATS (+14.1 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 3 seasons.
INDIANA is 15-8 ATS (+6.2 Units) after allowing 75 points or more this season.
INDIANA is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
INDIANA is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15+ games this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
INDIANA is 6-5 against the spread versus MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 9-2 straight up against INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
8 of 11 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NEW YORK (21 - 12) at CHICAGO (17 - 15) - 9/16/2016, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW YORK is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 23-10 ATS (+12.0 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 15-4 ATS (+10.6 Units) in road games vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 99-64 ATS (+28.6 Units) after a loss by 10 points or more since 1997.
NEW YORK is 96-70 ATS (+19.0 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
NEW YORK is 60-39 ATS (+17.1 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record after 15+ games since 1997.
CHICAGO is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 8-19 ATS (-12.9 Units) in home games after allowing 75 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 27-45 ATS (-22.5 Units) after scoring 75 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO is 6-4 against the spread versus NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 5-5 straight up against NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SAN ANTONIO (7 - 25) at LOS ANGELES (25 - 8) - 9/16/2016, 10:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LOS ANGELES is 19-30 ATS (-14.0 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 2-16 ATS (-15.6 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 to 15 points since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 5-23 ATS (-20.3 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 to 18 points since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 6-23 ATS (-19.3 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 or more points since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 17-35 ATS (-21.5 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 14-26 ATS (-14.6 Units) in a home game where where the total is greater than or equal to 150 over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 12-23 ATS (-13.3 Units) in home games after a division game over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) in home games after allowing 75 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) in home games after scoring 75 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 11-23 ATS (-14.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 12-23 ATS (-13.3 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game after 15+ games over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 11-22 ATS (-13.2 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
SAN ANTONIO is 9-3 against the spread versus LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
LOS ANGELES is 8-4 straight up against SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
7 of 12 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WNBA
Friday, September 16
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7:00 PM
MINNESOTA vs. INDIANA
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games when playing Indiana
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Indiana's last 6 games
Indiana is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games at home
7:00 PM
DALLAS vs. CONNECTICUT
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Dallas's last 6 games
Dallas is 2-11 SU in its last 13 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Connecticut's last 5 games when playing at home against Dallas
Connecticut is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Dallas
8:30 PM
NEW YORK vs. CHICAGO
New York is 5-11 ATS in its last 16 games when playing Chicago
New York is 17-8 SU in its last 25 games
Chicago is 11-5 SU in its last 16 games when playing New York
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games when playing at home against New York
10:30 PM
SAN ANTONIO vs. LOS ANGELES
San Antonio is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games
San Antonio is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Los Angeles
Los Angeles is 3-9 ATS in its last 12 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Los Angeles's last 5 games when playing San Antonio
Long Sheet
Friday, September 16
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DALLAS (11 - 21) at CONNECTICUT (12 - 20) - 9/16/2016, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 12-20 ATS (-10.0 Units) in all games this season.
DALLAS is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) against Eastern conference opponents this season.
DALLAS is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) in non-conference games this season.
DALLAS is 11-19 ATS (-9.9 Units) after allowing 75 points or more this season.
DALLAS is 4-11 ATS (-8.1 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game after 15+ games this season.
CONNECTICUT is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) when playing with 2 days rest over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) against Western conference opponents this season.
CONNECTICUT is 22-12 ATS (+8.8 Units) after a division game over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in non-conference games this season.
CONNECTICUT is 15-8 ATS (+6.2 Units) after scoring 75 points or more this season.
CONNECTICUT is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record after 15+ games after 15+ games this season.
CONNECTICUT is 16-8 ATS (+7.2 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
CONNECTICUT is 4-2 against the spread versus DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
CONNECTICUT is 4-2 straight up against DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINNESOTA (26 - 6) at INDIANA (16 - 16) - 9/16/2016, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) in road games in August or September games over the last 3 seasons.
INDIANA is 41-26 ATS (+12.4 Units) after a division game over the last 3 seasons.
INDIANA is 35-19 ATS (+14.1 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 3 seasons.
INDIANA is 15-8 ATS (+6.2 Units) after allowing 75 points or more this season.
INDIANA is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
INDIANA is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15+ games this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
INDIANA is 6-5 against the spread versus MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 9-2 straight up against INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
8 of 11 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NEW YORK (21 - 12) at CHICAGO (17 - 15) - 9/16/2016, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW YORK is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 23-10 ATS (+12.0 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 15-4 ATS (+10.6 Units) in road games vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 99-64 ATS (+28.6 Units) after a loss by 10 points or more since 1997.
NEW YORK is 96-70 ATS (+19.0 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
NEW YORK is 60-39 ATS (+17.1 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record after 15+ games since 1997.
CHICAGO is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 8-19 ATS (-12.9 Units) in home games after allowing 75 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 27-45 ATS (-22.5 Units) after scoring 75 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO is 6-4 against the spread versus NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 5-5 straight up against NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SAN ANTONIO (7 - 25) at LOS ANGELES (25 - 8) - 9/16/2016, 10:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LOS ANGELES is 19-30 ATS (-14.0 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 2-16 ATS (-15.6 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 to 15 points since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 5-23 ATS (-20.3 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 to 18 points since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 6-23 ATS (-19.3 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 or more points since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 17-35 ATS (-21.5 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 14-26 ATS (-14.6 Units) in a home game where where the total is greater than or equal to 150 over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 12-23 ATS (-13.3 Units) in home games after a division game over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) in home games after allowing 75 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) in home games after scoring 75 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 11-23 ATS (-14.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 12-23 ATS (-13.3 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game after 15+ games over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 11-22 ATS (-13.2 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
SAN ANTONIO is 9-3 against the spread versus LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
LOS ANGELES is 8-4 straight up against SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
7 of 12 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WNBA
Friday, September 16
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7:00 PM
MINNESOTA vs. INDIANA
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games when playing Indiana
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Indiana's last 6 games
Indiana is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games at home
7:00 PM
DALLAS vs. CONNECTICUT
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Dallas's last 6 games
Dallas is 2-11 SU in its last 13 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Connecticut's last 5 games when playing at home against Dallas
Connecticut is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Dallas
8:30 PM
NEW YORK vs. CHICAGO
New York is 5-11 ATS in its last 16 games when playing Chicago
New York is 17-8 SU in its last 25 games
Chicago is 11-5 SU in its last 16 games when playing New York
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games when playing at home against New York
10:30 PM
SAN ANTONIO vs. LOS ANGELES
San Antonio is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games
San Antonio is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Los Angeles
Los Angeles is 3-9 ATS in its last 12 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Los Angeles's last 5 games when playing San Antonio
WNBA
Dunkel
Friday, September 16
Dallas @ Connecticut
Game 651-652
September 16, 2016 @ 7:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Dallas
104.402
Connecticut
113.817
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Connecticut
by 9 1/2
177
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Connecticut
by 4 1/2
172
Dunkel Pick:
Connecticut
(-4 1/2); Over
Minnesota @ Indiana
Game 653-654
September 16, 2016 @ 7:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Minnesota
115.221
Indiana
114.352
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Minnesota
by 1
156
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Minnesota
by 3 1/2
161 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Indiana
(+3 1/2); Under
New York @ Chicago
Game 655-656
September 16, 2016 @ 8:30 pm
Dunkel Rating:
New York
110.207
Chicago
109.332
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
New York
by 1
174
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Chicago
by 3
169 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
New York
(+3); Over
San Antonio @ Los Angeles
Game 657-658
September 16, 2016 @ 10:30 pm
Dunkel Rating:
San Antonio
100.104
Los Angeles
115.579
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Los Angeles
by 15 1/2
147
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Los Angeles
by 12 1/2
153 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Los Angeles
(-12 1/2); Under
Dunkel
Friday, September 16
Dallas @ Connecticut
Game 651-652
September 16, 2016 @ 7:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Dallas
104.402
Connecticut
113.817
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Connecticut
by 9 1/2
177
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Connecticut
by 4 1/2
172
Dunkel Pick:
Connecticut
(-4 1/2); Over
Minnesota @ Indiana
Game 653-654
September 16, 2016 @ 7:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Minnesota
115.221
Indiana
114.352
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Minnesota
by 1
156
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Minnesota
by 3 1/2
161 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Indiana
(+3 1/2); Under
New York @ Chicago
Game 655-656
September 16, 2016 @ 8:30 pm
Dunkel Rating:
New York
110.207
Chicago
109.332
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
New York
by 1
174
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Chicago
by 3
169 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
New York
(+3); Over
San Antonio @ Los Angeles
Game 657-658
September 16, 2016 @ 10:30 pm
Dunkel Rating:
San Antonio
100.104
Los Angeles
115.579
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Los Angeles
by 15 1/2
147
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Los Angeles
by 12 1/2
153 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Los Angeles
(-12 1/2); Under
Preview: Wings (11-21) at Sun (12-20)
Date: September 16, 2016 7:00 PM EDT
With the playoffs out of reach for both teams, the Connecticut Sun and Dallas Wings will be looking to set the foundation for next season when they meet Friday at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.
Both teams are coming off wins over playoff-bound opponents. Dallas' Skylar Diggins hit a key layup and two free throws in the final 20 seconds of the Wings' 84-81 win over the New York Liberty on Sunday. It was the second straight victory for Dallas following an 11-game losing streak that stretched into September and ended the Wings' playoff hopes.
The Sun (12-20) never fully recovered from a 2-10 start to the season, but they did play their best basketball in the final two months of the regular season.
They are coming off a comeback win over the Indiana Fever. Jasmine Thomas scored 21 points, and Connecticut rallied back from an 11-point deficit in the second half to pull out an 89-87 win over the Fever on Tuesday.
The Wings (11-21) have been incredibly balanced on offense, with Odyssey Sims (14.6 points per game) and Diggins (13.4 points per game) leading six Dallas players averaging double figures in scoring. Overall, Dallas is averaging 83.6 points per game, fourth most in the WNBA. They Wings have struggled on defense, though, surrendering 87.8 points to opponents, the most in the league.
The Sun also have struggled on the defensive end of the floor, surrendering 84.9 points to opponents, the 10th most among the 12 WNBA teams.
Connecticut won the two previous meetings with the Wings this season, including an 89-78 victory on July 20. Sun forward Chiney Ogwumike had a monster performance in the win, scoring a career-high 26 points and contributing 15 rebounds, seven blocks and four steals.
On the season, Ogwumike leads the team in rebounding and blocks. She is second on the team in scoring. Alex Bentley leads the team in scoring, averaging 12.9 points per game.
Dallas closes the season at Indiana on Saturday. Connecticut finishes the season against the Washington Mystics, who were eliminated from playoff contention Thursday with a loss to the Atlanta Dream.
WNBA HEAD TO HEAD
Jul 20, 2016 Score ATS Results
CONN « 89 Cover: 16.5
DAL 78 Under: 167
Tools: Recaps
Jul 2, 2016 Score ATS Results
CONN « 86 Cover: 12
DAL 83 Under: 169
Tools: Recaps
Date: September 16, 2016 7:00 PM EDT
With the playoffs out of reach for both teams, the Connecticut Sun and Dallas Wings will be looking to set the foundation for next season when they meet Friday at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.
Both teams are coming off wins over playoff-bound opponents. Dallas' Skylar Diggins hit a key layup and two free throws in the final 20 seconds of the Wings' 84-81 win over the New York Liberty on Sunday. It was the second straight victory for Dallas following an 11-game losing streak that stretched into September and ended the Wings' playoff hopes.
The Sun (12-20) never fully recovered from a 2-10 start to the season, but they did play their best basketball in the final two months of the regular season.
They are coming off a comeback win over the Indiana Fever. Jasmine Thomas scored 21 points, and Connecticut rallied back from an 11-point deficit in the second half to pull out an 89-87 win over the Fever on Tuesday.
The Wings (11-21) have been incredibly balanced on offense, with Odyssey Sims (14.6 points per game) and Diggins (13.4 points per game) leading six Dallas players averaging double figures in scoring. Overall, Dallas is averaging 83.6 points per game, fourth most in the WNBA. They Wings have struggled on defense, though, surrendering 87.8 points to opponents, the most in the league.
The Sun also have struggled on the defensive end of the floor, surrendering 84.9 points to opponents, the 10th most among the 12 WNBA teams.
Connecticut won the two previous meetings with the Wings this season, including an 89-78 victory on July 20. Sun forward Chiney Ogwumike had a monster performance in the win, scoring a career-high 26 points and contributing 15 rebounds, seven blocks and four steals.
On the season, Ogwumike leads the team in rebounding and blocks. She is second on the team in scoring. Alex Bentley leads the team in scoring, averaging 12.9 points per game.
Dallas closes the season at Indiana on Saturday. Connecticut finishes the season against the Washington Mystics, who were eliminated from playoff contention Thursday with a loss to the Atlanta Dream.
WNBA HEAD TO HEAD
Jul 20, 2016 Score ATS Results
CONN « 89 Cover: 16.5
DAL 78 Under: 167
Tools: Recaps
Jul 2, 2016 Score ATS Results
CONN « 86 Cover: 12
DAL 83 Under: 169
Tools: Recaps
Preview: Lynx (26-6) at Fever (16-16)
Date: September 16, 2016 7:00 PM EDT
The Minnesota Lynx have already locked up home-court advantage throughout the postseason. The Indiana Fever still have a shot at earning home-court in the first round.
The two teams with different levels of motivation collide Friday when the Lynx travel to Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis to take on the Fever.
With two games remaining in the regular season, Indiana (16-16) has clinched a spot in the eight-team playoffs and sits in sixth place, one-half game behind the Atlanta Dream and a full game behind fourth-place Chicago. The top four teams earn home-court advantage in the first round.
The Fever had a chance to move up the standings Tuesday, but blew an 11-point lead in the second half and dropped an 89-87 decision to the Connecticut Sun. The Fever shot 52.5 percent from the field, but were sloppy with the ball, committing 21 turnovers that led to 20 Connecticut points. The loss spoiled a career-high 23-point performance from reserve guard Shenise Johnson and ended Indiana's three-game winning streak.
Minnesota (26-6) locked up home-court advantage in the playoffs with a road victory over San Antonio on Sunday. The Lynx followed it up with an overtime loss to the Chicago Sky on Tuesday, though, ending Minnesota's five-game win streak. The Lynx have won 11 of their last 13.
Maya Moore is averaging 19.4 points and 4.2 assists, both team highs for Minnesota. Sylvia Fowles (13.5), Seimone Augustus (11.3) and Lindsay Whalen (10.1) also are averaging double figures in points for the Lynx, who enter the postseason as the favorites to repeat as WNBA champions.
Indiana veteran Tamika Catchings, who announced she will retire after the season, leads the Fever in scoring, averaging 12.7 points per game, and is second on the team in rebounding (4.8). Catchings will need to be at her best against the Lynx, who have won 11 of their last 13 meetings against Indiana, including both games this season.
Indiana wraps up the regular season Sunday at home against the Dallas Wings. The Lynx finish the regular season Sunday against Atlanta.
WNBA HEAD TO HEAD
Jun 14, 2016 Score ATS Results
IND 63 Under: 150
MIN « 87 Cover: 10.5
Tools: Recaps
May 27, 2016 Score ATS Results
IND 71 Cover: 9
MIN « 74 Under: 145
Tools: Recaps
Oct 14, 2015 Score ATS Results
IND 52 Under: 121
MIN « 69 Cover: 12
Tools:
Oct 11, 2015 Score ATS Results
MIN 69 Under: 144
IND « 75 Cover: 3.5
Tools:
Oct 9, 2015 Score ATS Results
MIN « 80 Cover: 6
IND 77 Over: 157
Tools:
Oct 6, 2015 Score ATS Results
IND 71 Cover: 0
MIN « 77 Over: 148
Tools:
Oct 4, 2015 Score ATS Results
IND « 75 Cover: 12.5
MIN 69 Under: 144
Tools:
Date: September 16, 2016 7:00 PM EDT
The Minnesota Lynx have already locked up home-court advantage throughout the postseason. The Indiana Fever still have a shot at earning home-court in the first round.
The two teams with different levels of motivation collide Friday when the Lynx travel to Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis to take on the Fever.
With two games remaining in the regular season, Indiana (16-16) has clinched a spot in the eight-team playoffs and sits in sixth place, one-half game behind the Atlanta Dream and a full game behind fourth-place Chicago. The top four teams earn home-court advantage in the first round.
The Fever had a chance to move up the standings Tuesday, but blew an 11-point lead in the second half and dropped an 89-87 decision to the Connecticut Sun. The Fever shot 52.5 percent from the field, but were sloppy with the ball, committing 21 turnovers that led to 20 Connecticut points. The loss spoiled a career-high 23-point performance from reserve guard Shenise Johnson and ended Indiana's three-game winning streak.
Minnesota (26-6) locked up home-court advantage in the playoffs with a road victory over San Antonio on Sunday. The Lynx followed it up with an overtime loss to the Chicago Sky on Tuesday, though, ending Minnesota's five-game win streak. The Lynx have won 11 of their last 13.
Maya Moore is averaging 19.4 points and 4.2 assists, both team highs for Minnesota. Sylvia Fowles (13.5), Seimone Augustus (11.3) and Lindsay Whalen (10.1) also are averaging double figures in points for the Lynx, who enter the postseason as the favorites to repeat as WNBA champions.
Indiana veteran Tamika Catchings, who announced she will retire after the season, leads the Fever in scoring, averaging 12.7 points per game, and is second on the team in rebounding (4.8). Catchings will need to be at her best against the Lynx, who have won 11 of their last 13 meetings against Indiana, including both games this season.
Indiana wraps up the regular season Sunday at home against the Dallas Wings. The Lynx finish the regular season Sunday against Atlanta.
WNBA HEAD TO HEAD
Jun 14, 2016 Score ATS Results
IND 63 Under: 150
MIN « 87 Cover: 10.5
Tools: Recaps
May 27, 2016 Score ATS Results
IND 71 Cover: 9
MIN « 74 Under: 145
Tools: Recaps
Oct 14, 2015 Score ATS Results
IND 52 Under: 121
MIN « 69 Cover: 12
Tools:
Oct 11, 2015 Score ATS Results
MIN 69 Under: 144
IND « 75 Cover: 3.5
Tools:
Oct 9, 2015 Score ATS Results
MIN « 80 Cover: 6
IND 77 Over: 157
Tools:
Oct 6, 2015 Score ATS Results
IND 71 Cover: 0
MIN « 77 Over: 148
Tools:
Oct 4, 2015 Score ATS Results
IND « 75 Cover: 12.5
MIN 69 Under: 144
Tools:
Preview: Liberty (21-12) at Sky (17-15)
Date: September 16, 2016 8:30 PM EDT
The Chicago Sky are banged up and likely will be without superstar Elena Delle Donne when they host the New York Liberty on Friday at Allstate Arena.
Delle Donne, the WNBA's reigning MVP, had surgery Tuesday on her thumb on her right shooting hand. She is listed as day-to-day, and Sky coach Pokey Chatman has not indicated any time frame from Delle Donne's return from an injury she suffered in a loss to the Washington Mystics on Sept. 7.
The Sky have regrouped without their star to win the last two games, including a dramatic victory over the defending-champion and first-place Minnesota Lynx. In the final seconds of regulation against Minnesota on Tuesday, Chicago guard Courtney Vandersloot intentionally missed her second free throw, got the rebound, drew a foul and hit two more free throws to force overtime, where the Sky prevailed 98-97.
"We were trying to fight for fourth place," Chicago guard Cappie Pondexter told reporters after the dramatic win.
With two games remaining, the Sky (17-15) are in fourth place, but only by one-half game over the Atlanta Dream and one full game over the Indiana Fever.
The Liberty (21-12) have already locked up the third overall seed and home-court advantage in the first round of the postseason, but could use a positive performance in their final game of the regular season.
New York dropped three of its last four games, but defeated the Sky in both previous meetings this season. Most recently, MVP candidate Tina Charles poured in 29 points in an 88-85 victory over the Sky on July 8. The victory gave coach Bill Laimbeer his 200th career win, becoming the seventh coach in WNBA history to reach the mark.
Charles leads the Liberty in points (21.5 per game), rebounds (9.9) and assists (3.8).
Pondexter picked up some of the scoring load left behind by Delle Donne. Pondexter had 24 points Tuesday and is averaging 12.9 points on the season. She is battling a shoulder injury, though, adding to the Sky's injury woes, but is expected to play against the Liberty.
WNBA HEAD TO HEAD
Jul 8, 2016 Score ATS Results
NEW « 88 Cover: 4.5
CHI 85 Over: 173
Tools: Recaps
Jun 24, 2016 Score ATS Results
CHI 79 Cover: 4
NEW « 80 Under: 159
Tools: Recaps
Date: September 16, 2016 8:30 PM EDT
The Chicago Sky are banged up and likely will be without superstar Elena Delle Donne when they host the New York Liberty on Friday at Allstate Arena.
Delle Donne, the WNBA's reigning MVP, had surgery Tuesday on her thumb on her right shooting hand. She is listed as day-to-day, and Sky coach Pokey Chatman has not indicated any time frame from Delle Donne's return from an injury she suffered in a loss to the Washington Mystics on Sept. 7.
The Sky have regrouped without their star to win the last two games, including a dramatic victory over the defending-champion and first-place Minnesota Lynx. In the final seconds of regulation against Minnesota on Tuesday, Chicago guard Courtney Vandersloot intentionally missed her second free throw, got the rebound, drew a foul and hit two more free throws to force overtime, where the Sky prevailed 98-97.
"We were trying to fight for fourth place," Chicago guard Cappie Pondexter told reporters after the dramatic win.
With two games remaining, the Sky (17-15) are in fourth place, but only by one-half game over the Atlanta Dream and one full game over the Indiana Fever.
The Liberty (21-12) have already locked up the third overall seed and home-court advantage in the first round of the postseason, but could use a positive performance in their final game of the regular season.
New York dropped three of its last four games, but defeated the Sky in both previous meetings this season. Most recently, MVP candidate Tina Charles poured in 29 points in an 88-85 victory over the Sky on July 8. The victory gave coach Bill Laimbeer his 200th career win, becoming the seventh coach in WNBA history to reach the mark.
Charles leads the Liberty in points (21.5 per game), rebounds (9.9) and assists (3.8).
Pondexter picked up some of the scoring load left behind by Delle Donne. Pondexter had 24 points Tuesday and is averaging 12.9 points on the season. She is battling a shoulder injury, though, adding to the Sky's injury woes, but is expected to play against the Liberty.
WNBA HEAD TO HEAD
Jul 8, 2016 Score ATS Results
NEW « 88 Cover: 4.5
CHI 85 Over: 173
Tools: Recaps
Jun 24, 2016 Score ATS Results
CHI 79 Cover: 4
NEW « 80 Under: 159
Tools: Recaps
Preview: Stars (7-25) at Sparks (25-8)
Date: September 16, 2016 10:30 PM EDT
The Los Angeles Sparks will try to generate momentum heading into the playoffs when they close out the regular season against the San Antonio Stars on Friday night at Staples Center in Los Angeles, Calif.
Los Angeles (25-8) is second in the WNBA's Western Conference and will be the No. 2 seed in the playoffs, but the Sparks have struggled at times in recent weeks. They have lost three of their last four games and five of nine since returning from the month-long Olympics break after going 21-3 before the break.
San Antonio (7-25) is last in the Western Conference. The Stars have the worst record in the WNBA. They have lost six of their last seven games and 12 of 14.
Los Angeles is coming off a 90-85 victory over the Phoenix Mercury. That win snapped a three-game losing streak. Nneka Ogwumike finished with 24 points and 10 rebounds and Chelsea Gray came off the bench to score a career-high 23 points. Jantel Lavender added 17 points for the Sparks, who shot 47.9 percent from the field.
The Sparks elected to rest Ogwumike and fellow starter Kristi Toliver in their previous game, a 78-60 loss to the Seattle Storm. Toliver was held to five points on 2-of-11 shooting in her return to the lineup against the Mercury.
San Antonio is coming off a 71-67 victory over the Atlanta Dream, a rare win that ended a six-game losing streak. Astou Ndour had a career-high 20 points after scoring 10 of San Antonio's last 14 points, including a big 3-pointer with 35 seconds remaining. Moriah Jefferson added 19 points for the Stars.
Ogwumike is third in the WNBA in scoring and rebounding, averaging 19.8 points and nine rebounds per game. Toliver is third in 3-point shooting at 42.7 percent.
Kayla McBride was leading San Antonio in scoring at 17.1 points per game before she was lost for the season with a fracture in her right foot in early July. The Stars are 3-12 since McBride went down. Jefferson is averaging 13.7 points per game and Monique Currie chips in 10.3.
WNBA HEAD TO HEAD
Sep 1, 2016 Score ATS Results
LOS « 70 Under: 131
SA 61 Cover: 5.5
Tools: Recaps
Jun 4, 2016 Score ATS Results
LOS « 74 Cover: 3
SA 61 Under: 135
Tools: Recaps
Jun 2, 2016 Score ATS Results
SA 61 Cover: 10.5
LOS « 68 Under: 129
Tools: Recaps
Date: September 16, 2016 10:30 PM EDT
The Los Angeles Sparks will try to generate momentum heading into the playoffs when they close out the regular season against the San Antonio Stars on Friday night at Staples Center in Los Angeles, Calif.
Los Angeles (25-8) is second in the WNBA's Western Conference and will be the No. 2 seed in the playoffs, but the Sparks have struggled at times in recent weeks. They have lost three of their last four games and five of nine since returning from the month-long Olympics break after going 21-3 before the break.
San Antonio (7-25) is last in the Western Conference. The Stars have the worst record in the WNBA. They have lost six of their last seven games and 12 of 14.
Los Angeles is coming off a 90-85 victory over the Phoenix Mercury. That win snapped a three-game losing streak. Nneka Ogwumike finished with 24 points and 10 rebounds and Chelsea Gray came off the bench to score a career-high 23 points. Jantel Lavender added 17 points for the Sparks, who shot 47.9 percent from the field.
The Sparks elected to rest Ogwumike and fellow starter Kristi Toliver in their previous game, a 78-60 loss to the Seattle Storm. Toliver was held to five points on 2-of-11 shooting in her return to the lineup against the Mercury.
San Antonio is coming off a 71-67 victory over the Atlanta Dream, a rare win that ended a six-game losing streak. Astou Ndour had a career-high 20 points after scoring 10 of San Antonio's last 14 points, including a big 3-pointer with 35 seconds remaining. Moriah Jefferson added 19 points for the Stars.
Ogwumike is third in the WNBA in scoring and rebounding, averaging 19.8 points and nine rebounds per game. Toliver is third in 3-point shooting at 42.7 percent.
Kayla McBride was leading San Antonio in scoring at 17.1 points per game before she was lost for the season with a fracture in her right foot in early July. The Stars are 3-12 since McBride went down. Jefferson is averaging 13.7 points per game and Monique Currie chips in 10.3.
WNBA HEAD TO HEAD
Sep 1, 2016 Score ATS Results
LOS « 70 Under: 131
SA 61 Cover: 5.5
Tools: Recaps
Jun 4, 2016 Score ATS Results
LOS « 74 Cover: 3
SA 61 Under: 135
Tools: Recaps
Jun 2, 2016 Score ATS Results
SA 61 Cover: 10.5
LOS « 68 Under: 129
Tools: Recaps
WNBA Capsules
September 17, 2016
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) Maya Moore scored 11 of her 15 points in the fourth quarter to help the Minnesota Lynx pull away for an 82-75 victory over the Indiana Fever on Friday night.
The Lynx (27-6) had already locked up home-court advantage throughout the postseason, and have won 12 of their last 14 and 12 straight against the playoff-bound Fever (16-17).
Indiana's Tamika Catchings, who announced she will retire after the season, had 11 points and four rebounds to stretch her career total to 3,309 and become the WNBA career leading rebounder. Marissa Coleman scored 19 points to lead the Fever, and Briann January added eight points to reach 2,000 for her career.
The Lynx had a 59-58 lead midway through the fourth quarter when Janel McCarville hit a 17-foot jumper, sparking a 21-9 run that made it 80-66 with 3:15 left. Moore had 11 points during the run.
SPARKS 71, STARS 65
LOS ANGELES (AP) - Nneka Ogwumike had 17 points and 10 rebounds and Los Angeles ended its regular season with a victory over San Antonio.
Jantel Lavender scored 14 points and Chelsea Gray added 13 for Los Angeles (26-8). The Sparks had already clinched the No. 2 seed in the playoffs.
Moriah Jefferson scored 18 points for the WNBA-worst Stars (7-26).
SKY 92, LIBERTY 68
GLENVIEW, Ill. (AP) - Tamera Young scored 22 points and Allie Quigley added 18 to lead Chicago past New York for its third straight victory.
The Sky (18-15) moved a game in front of Atlanta for the fourth-seed in the playoffs and a first-round bye. Swin Cash and Carolyn Swords each scored 15 points for New York (21-13).
SUN 107, WINGS 74
UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) - Camille Little and Courtney Williams scored 15 points apiece in Connecticut's victory over Dallas.
Jasmine Thomas and Alex Bentley added 14 each for the Sun (13-20), and Chiney Ogwumike had 13 points and 13 rebounds. Theresa Plaisance had 22 points for Dallas (11-22).
September 17, 2016
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) Maya Moore scored 11 of her 15 points in the fourth quarter to help the Minnesota Lynx pull away for an 82-75 victory over the Indiana Fever on Friday night.
The Lynx (27-6) had already locked up home-court advantage throughout the postseason, and have won 12 of their last 14 and 12 straight against the playoff-bound Fever (16-17).
Indiana's Tamika Catchings, who announced she will retire after the season, had 11 points and four rebounds to stretch her career total to 3,309 and become the WNBA career leading rebounder. Marissa Coleman scored 19 points to lead the Fever, and Briann January added eight points to reach 2,000 for her career.
The Lynx had a 59-58 lead midway through the fourth quarter when Janel McCarville hit a 17-foot jumper, sparking a 21-9 run that made it 80-66 with 3:15 left. Moore had 11 points during the run.
SPARKS 71, STARS 65
LOS ANGELES (AP) - Nneka Ogwumike had 17 points and 10 rebounds and Los Angeles ended its regular season with a victory over San Antonio.
Jantel Lavender scored 14 points and Chelsea Gray added 13 for Los Angeles (26-8). The Sparks had already clinched the No. 2 seed in the playoffs.
Moriah Jefferson scored 18 points for the WNBA-worst Stars (7-26).
SKY 92, LIBERTY 68
GLENVIEW, Ill. (AP) - Tamera Young scored 22 points and Allie Quigley added 18 to lead Chicago past New York for its third straight victory.
The Sky (18-15) moved a game in front of Atlanta for the fourth-seed in the playoffs and a first-round bye. Swin Cash and Carolyn Swords each scored 15 points for New York (21-13).
SUN 107, WINGS 74
UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) - Camille Little and Courtney Williams scored 15 points apiece in Connecticut's victory over Dallas.
Jasmine Thomas and Alex Bentley added 14 each for the Sun (13-20), and Chiney Ogwumike had 13 points and 13 rebounds. Theresa Plaisance had 22 points for Dallas (11-22).
