LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 14: Forward Essence Carson
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LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 16: Head Coach Brian Agler of the Los Angeles Sparks watches play against the Minnesota Lynx at Staples Center on October 16, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
2. Los Angeles Sparks
Back when the Sparks had the eleventh-ranked defense in the league early on this season, Brian Agler used it as motivation. The players discussed it openly. Well, now we’re nearing July, and the Sparks are… fourth. Rising fast. Over the past five games, they’re allowing 95.4 points per 100 possessions. Over the last three? 90.6. See a trend here?
