Through three games of this physical, high pressure, defensive series, the equation for winning is simple: play well to start the game. A 28-2 opening helped the Sparks win game 1, the Lynx opened 28-10 in their game 2 win, and on Friday night at Staples Center the Sparks jumped out to a 13-4 lead on their way to the 75-64 victory.
It’s nice to have that kind of scoring cushion to work with for the rest of the game, but these opening moments aren’t just about scoring. The term “setting the tone” is somewhat of a cliche but It’s truly been something that has been important in this series.