SPARKS TONIGHT vs. Houston, 7, ESPN2

Site--Staples Center.

Radio--KPLS (830).

Records--Sparks 22-6, Comets 22-7.

Record vs. Comets--1-1.

Update--On the line in this game: first place in the Western Conference, the league’s best record, and the mental advantage going into the playoffs next week. The Comets have won three in a row and six of their last seven to reduce the Sparks’ lead to a half-game. But Houston may be without forward Tina Thompson, who suffered a right hip injury in the final seconds of Tuesday’s victory over Cleveland. The Sparks, idle since Sunday’s victory over Utah, have a modest two-game winning streak. But a victory is critical to Los Angeles, which must fly to Utah after the game for a Friday rematch with the Starzz.

Tickets--(877) 962-2849.