Mystics hope their close-game magic resurfaces vs. Sparks

The Washington Mystics have been living on the edge recently, but it has been worth it.

The Mystics will attempt to secure their first four-game winning streak of the season, by narrow margin or not, when they visit the Los Angeles Sparks on Tuesday night.

Their three-game winning streak is comprised of a pair of two-point victories and then Sunday's 74-69 triumph at Seattle.

"I think our team has done a great job in the fourth quarter since the start of the season," Mystics guard Brittney Sykes said. "I'd say we've been poised and confident, especially on the defensive end."

Washington (11-10) overcame a 10-point deficit and outscored Seattle 27-14 in the fourth quarter. The Mystics won despite shooting 3-for-14 on 3-pointers.

The Sparks (7-14) also have enjoyed narrow victories recently. Their last two wins have come by two and four points, including Sunday night's 92-88 home victory against the Connecticut Sun.

"I never sensed the team get tight or get out of the flow of it," Sparks coach Lynne Roberts said.

Kelsey Plum poured in 23 points and Azura Stevens had 21 points and 11 rebounds for the Sparks against Connecticut. Stevens drained half of the Sparks' 10 baskets from 3-point range.

Guard Rae Burrell provided seven points off the Los Angeles bench in a season-high 17 minutes. She was in her fourth game back following about a six-week absence with an injury.

"She's just the Energizer bunny," Roberts said. "She puts pressure on the defense. I feel like she's getting in a groove."

The Sparks have won only twice at home this season, so they'll attempt to secure back-to-back victories on their home court for the first time Tuesday.

"We're trying to build those habits," Stevens said. "I think those wins will come."

Plum has been the leading scorer for Los Angeles in two straight games for the first time this year.

Sykes has been Washington's top scorer in each of the last two games, scoring 19 points in Seattle. The Mystics are 7-3 in their last 10 games.

Kiki Iriafen notched a double-double for the seventh time Sunday, setting a team record for double-doubles by a rookie.

This will be the first of consecutive games between the teams, though those matchups will be separated by a week due to the All-Star break.