The Sparks used a decisive third quarter to defeat the Sting in Charlotte, 72-65 before 3,576. (Note - Ticker recap says it was the home opener for Charlotte, even though it was Saturday.) Once again, the Sting made a comeback in the fourth quarter, but once again it was not enough.

Chamique Holdsclaw did not play again, but Lisa Leslie certainly did. She led all scorers with 27 points on 11-16 from the floor. She also pulled down 16 rebounds (Note the improved box scores provided on .com). The Sparks dominated the points in the paint 46-24 and shot almost 47% from the floor compared to the Sting's 34%.

Muggsy Bogues: We have to clean up some areas, keep pushing, and keep believing. I thought we did some good things tonight.