Liberty hang on for win over Sparks after nearly blowing huge late lead

The New York Liberty survived a late collapse to beat the Los Angeles Sparks 85-81 on Thursday night at Barclays Center. After building a 28-point lead (69-41) with 9:48 remaining in the fourth quarter, New York saw its advantage cut dramatically as Los Angeles unleashed a 21-0 run, turning the game into a one-possession contest. The Sparks, who had lost eight of 10 games entering Thursday, also outscored the Liberty 40-18 in the final quarter. Sabrina Ionescu said it was “a game of runs” as the Liberty continued to chip away. With 57.9 seconds left, Dearica Hamby’s layup made it 82-79, and Rae Burrell later reduced it to 82-81. Ionescu sealed the win with free throws. Coach Chris DeMarco called the fourth quarter “funky.”