With Minnesota's loss, Phoenix had a chance to jump into third place last night. The Merc led early at Staples, but couldn't hold on.

"They're the best team in the league in running and controlling momentum," coach Graf said of the Sparks. "They are one of the only teams in the league that can get 10 or 12 points in the blink of an eye."

Lisa Leslie had yet another huge night. 31 points, 7 boards, 3 blocks, 3 steals.

"This was an important game for us to win," Leslie said. "And I thought we did a good job on Diana tonight. I don't know how many points she scored, but I know it wasn't many, and she's a great player."

Taurasi scored 7 on 3-for-12 shooting. In the LA Times today, Mike Terry wonders if fatique has worn D down.

Coach Graf isn't too worried. "She has hit a wall before. It's been a long, hard year for her. We have to find a way to keep her involved and keep her fresh because she is such a talented young player. But it's also a team game. Obviously we need her feeling good about how she's playing. But she gives us more than just scoring."

Diana isn't worried either: "I feel fine."