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Parker pushes Sparks past Lynx

Jul 5, 2012 - 9:27 PM Los Angeles, CA (Sports Network) - Candace Parker recorded a double-double on Thursday with 28 points and 13 rebounds as the Los Angeles Sparks topped the Minnesota Lynx, 96-90, at Staples Center.

Kristi Toliver poured in a game-high 29 points to go with six assists, while rookie Nneka Ogwumike chipped in 12 points and seven boards to help the Sparks snap a five-game losing streak against the Lynx.

Seimone Augustus finished with 18 points to lead the Lynx, who suffered consecutive defeats for the first time since June 24-26, 2011.

After a tightly contested first half found the Sparks leading 49-43 at halftime, Los Angeles surged ahead in the third stanza by shooting 57 percent from the field.

Parker registered nine points in the frame to help her team take a 75-57 advantage into the final 10 minutes.

Three consecutive three-pointers found the Lynx within six late in the fourth quarter, but Los Angeles went 12-for-12 from the free throw line over the final two minutes to hold on for the victory.