What happened: Olivia Miles set a WNBA rookie record with 24 points in the first half, finishing with a The Lynx shot 55.6% from the field and dominated a shorthanded Sparks squad playing without stars Kelsey Plum and Cameron Brink.

Why it matters: The victory moves Minnesota to 14-3 as they continue to lead the league in offensive efficiency. For Olivia Miles, the historic performance cements her status as the Rookie of the Year frontrunner while setting a new league benchmark for newcomer scoring in a single half.

By the numbers: MIN: Olivia Miles 31 PTS (12-15 FG), Natasha Howard 15 PTS. LAS: Rae Burrell 19 PTS. Minnesota FG%: 55.6. Lynx season record: 14-3.

What to watch: Minnesota hosts the Phoenix Mercury on Saturday, while the Sparks look to end their slide when they host the Connecticut Sun.

Sources