In an important game for two teams on the cusp of the playoffs, Charlotte topped Sacramento.

The Sting are now in tied for first with Indiana and New York, half game up on Connecticut, full game up on D.C. The Monarchs are now in fifth, a game and a half behind the Lynx and Merc.

How did a team like Charlotte -- which isn't really very good -- end up in first place? "We're an unlikely bunch, but we take pride in that," coach Trudi Lacey said. "It's just heart and determination."