The WNBA's All-Star break is approaching, and Wednesday features an exciting matinee matchup as the Phoenix Mercury face off against the Los Angeles Sparks at 3 p.m. ET in Los Angeles. This game stands out as one of the few evenly matched contests on the slate, with both teams struggling for playoff positions.

Current Standings:

• Phoenix Mercury: 9-18, 13th in the WNBA
• Los Angeles Sparks: 10-15, 10th in the WNBA

The Mercury recently snapped a five-game losing streak with a 72-63 victory over the Connecticut Sun, marking their first win in which they scored only two three-pointers since 2016. DeWanna Bonner led the team with a season-high 21 points and became the franchise's all-time leading rebounder, surpassing Brittney Griner with 2,323 rebounds.

Despite the win, Phoenix's offense struggled, shooting just 41% from the field and 8% from beyond the arc. Natasha Mack returned from injury but had limited impact, contributing 4 points and 5 rebounds off the bench.

On the other side, the Sparks are in a slump, having lost four consecutive games, averaging 16 turnovers during this stretch. Head coach Lynne Roberts cited issues with execution and focus as key factors in their struggles. However, the return of Cameron Brink has been a positive, as she averaged 29 points and 13 rebounds over her last three games.

Nneka Ogwumike enters this matchup with three consecutive double-doubles, averaging 19.3 points and 11.3 rebounds during this stretch. She recently became the all-time leading scorer in Sparks history, surpassing Lisa Leslie.

The Sparks have won both previous matchups against the Mercury this season, averaging 104 points in those games, including one that went to overtime. With Kelsey Plum sidelined, the Sparks look to maintain their home momentum as they aim for a crucial victory.