Sparks escape with win after officiating error

The LA Sparks narrowly defeated the Toronto Tempo with a final score of 99-95 on Friday. The game featured a significant officiating error that resulted in a non-unsportsmanlike technical foul against the Sparks for illegal substitution. This occurred when a referee failed to signal a player into the game, causing the Sparks to briefly play with only four players. Despite the mistake being admitted by officials, the Tempo were awarded a free throw, which they converted. Coach Lynne Roberts expressed her strong disapproval, warning that such errors could critically impact close contests. She highlighted that if the Sparks had lost by a single point, the free throw from the officiating blunder would have been the deciding factor. The Sparks had started the game explosively, leading by as much as 21-2, but the Tempo mounted a significant comeback, reducing the deficit to just two points. Coach Roberts acknowledged Toronto's resilience and stated that she had to rely on her starters for extended periods in the second half to secure the win. She also issued a warning to the Tempo ahead of their upcoming rematch, anticipating another tough contest.