SPARKS TONIGHT

vs. New York, 7:30, NBA TV

Site -- Staples Center.

Radio -- 1150.

Records -- Sparks 7-6, Liberty 7-7.

Record vs. Liberty (2006) -- 1-1.

Update -- Fresh off an impressive victory Wednesday against Sacramento, the Sparks will face New York for the first time this season. The Liberty has dropped three games in a row and seven of its last nine. For the Sparks, defense has become the watchword, evident on Wednesday with the new starting lineup that included point guard Sherill Baker, traded last week from the Liberty for Lisa Willis. Meanwhile, forward Taj McWilliams-Franklin, who has tendinitis of the right hamstring, is listed as probable. Veteran guard Temeka Johnson, who has been sidelined while recovering from knee surgery, practiced with the team Thursday. Sparks trainer Marco Nunez said she could be available in a week or two.

Tickets -- (877) 447-7275.

-- Lauren Peterson