By defeating the Mercury in Phoenix, the Comets won themselves a trip to the playoffs. Swoopes played all 40 minutes, totaling 15 points, 13 boards, and seven assists.

Van Chancellor: "I've never seen Sheryl more focused."

A home win would have sent the Mercury to the postseason: instead, they're now competing for the last slot. If L.A. loses tonight, the Merc need to win in Seattle or have Houston beat L.A. in Houston on Saturday: if L.A. wins tonight, the Merc need both a win and a Sparks loss.