WNBA: The Sparks are focused before Game 2 of the Western Conference Semifinals

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For the first time this season, the Sparks’ locker room was barren during the pregame media session. Every player who wasn’t in the training room receiving treatment was on the court shooting.

‘That shows you a sign of focus,’ said Sparks Coach Jennifer Gillom.

The Sparks are about to face the Seattle Storm in Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals at Staples Center in a best-of-three series. Top-seeded Seattle is 6-0 against the fourth-seeded Sparks this year.

The Storm won Game 1, 79-66, and if the Sparks lose this game, their season is over. But Sparks veteran Tina Thompson said she’s not feeling any pressure.

Any nerves?

‘Never,’ said Thompson, in a clipped business-like manner that was reminiscent of Kobe Bryant’s tone during the Lakers’ playoff push.

‘We need to win,’ Thompson said. ‘But I feel like we need to win every game.’

-- Melissa Rohlin