Sparks eliminated from playoff contention after loss to Dream

The Los Angeles Sparks suffered a 124-88 defeat to the Atlanta Dream on Thursday at Crypto.com Arena, officially ending their playoff hopes. The loss marks the sixth consecutive defeat for the Sparks, leaving them with a 12-24 record. Nneka Ogwumike announced this season as her final, reflecting on her 15-year career positively despite the team's struggles. The Dream capitalized early, establishing a commanding 31-12 lead at the end of the first quarter. Rhyne Howard led all scorers with 26 points, while Cameron Brink was the top scorer for the Sparks with 14 points. The Sparks have eight games remaining in the season, with five at home.

• 5:04 AMYahoo Sports — Sparks suffer blowout loss to Dream and are eliminated from playoff contention