Nneka Ogwumike: Nigerian-born star leads LA Sparks to win against Indiana Fever

The Los Angeles Sparks made it a point to defend their homecourt edge in their second game in three days against the same opponent.

A decisive 81-68 victory over the Indiana Fever early on Friday, July 28, 2023, by the Sparks gave them a two-game winning run. 

An American professional basketball player of Nigerian descent, Nneka Ogwumike contributed 25 points, nine rebounds, three steals, and two blocks in the win.

After scoring a season-high 30 points against Indiana on Tuesday to end the team's eight-game losing streak, Ogwumike put on a great all-around performance.

Ogwumike, who has played in 23 games for the Sparks this season and is averaging 20 points and 9 rebounds, was described by head coach Miller as the epitome of a most important player in the WNBA.

In a difficult season, the Sparks improved to 9-15, including 7-6 at home this year.

The margin of the Sparks' 45-39 halftime lead was the same as their 24-18 first-half advantage in points scored in the paint. 

On 6-of-9 shooting from the field, Ogwumike accounted for 15 of those points. 

At halftime, the Sparks shot 50% from the field and had 13 assists on 17 field goals.

The Sparks will host a second two-game set against the New York Liberty on Sunday and Tuesday.