SPARKS AT CHICAGO.

Byline: -- Earl Williams

Tipoff: 5 p.m., United Center.

Sparks (0-0) update: For the first time in their 11-year history, the Sparks will open a season without Lisa Leslie as their starting center. Leslie, a three-time league MVP who averaged 20.0 points, 9.5 rebounds and 1.7 blocks last year, is expecting her first child in late June and will not be with the Sparks as they go for their ninth consecutive playoff appearance.

Chicago (0-0) update: The Sky had a rough inaugural season in 2006, finishing with a league-worst 5-29 record.