The Los Angeles Sparks face a must-win situation tonight as they take on the Phoenix Mercury at PHX Arena.
With just two games left in the regular season, the Sparks trail the Seattle Storm by 1.5 games for the final playoff spot. The Storm close their schedule against the Golden State Valkyries this evening, so Los Angeles needs both a victory and some outside help to keep their postseason hopes alive. The Sparks would then need to beat the Las Vegas Aces, who’ve won 14 straight coming into tonight, in their final regular-season game on Thursday. That’s quite an uphill task.
To make matters more difficult for the Sparks, their lineup tonight remains uncertain, with stars Kelsey Plum and Rickea Jackson listed as game-time decisions.
Phoenix, meanwhile, has already clinched a playoff berth but is still fighting for seeding. The Mercury are currently in fourth place and could climb higher with a strong finish.
Despite recent close calls — a three-point loss to the Connecticut Sun and a narrow six-point win over the Washington Mystics — Phoenix remains dangerous, led by triple-double machine Alyssa Thomas alongside Satou Sabally and Kahleah Copper.
Prediction
The Sparks have everything to play for, but the Mercury’s depth should carry them through in a tight contest.
Prediction: Phoenix Mercury 89, Los Angeles Sparks 86
Injury Report
Los Angeles Sparks
Kelsey Plum — GTD
Rickea Jackson — GTD
Phoenix Mercury
No reported injuries.
How to Watch Sparks vs. Mercury
Tip-off for tonight’s game between the Los Angeles Sparks and Phoenix Mercury is set for 10:00 PM Eastern / 7:00 PM Pacific at PHX Arena in Phoenix.
The game airs live on NBA TV and Arizona’s Family Sports.
If you don’t have access to NBA TV, you can watch it for free through free trials from DIRECTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo TV, or YouTube TV.
YouTube TV even offers a 20-minute free preview, without having to register for a trial — if you just want to catch part of the game.
Los Angeles Sparks vs. Phoenix Mercury
Date: Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Time: 10:00 PM Eastern / 7:00 PM Pacific
Venue: PHX Arena, Phoenix, AZ
TV: NBA TV, Arizona’s Family Sports, Merc+
Streaming: WNBA League Pass
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