Hammon scores 27 points to lead Silver Stars past Monarchs, 80-71

Hammon’s 27 points lift Silver Stars past Monarchs

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Becky Hammon scored 27 points to lead San Antonio to an 80-71 victory over the Sacramento Monarchs on Thursday night, moving the Silver Stars one win from securing a playoff berth.

Ann Wauters had 16 points and Sophia Young added 14 to help San Antonio (15-18) win for the fourth time in five games to move a half-game ahead of Minnesota for the fourth and final postseason spot in the Western Conference.

The Silver Stars, who lost to Detroit in the finals last year, can secure the spot with a win at home against Seattle on Saturday — or if Minnesota loses one of its final two games.

Nicole Powell had 17 points and 10 rebounds for Sacramento (11-23), which will not reach the playoffs for the first time since 2002.