After winning the WNBA title last year, the Minnesota Lynx entered the 2012 season hoping to become the first repeat champion since the Los Angeles Sparks did it in 2001 and 2002. On Thursday night, the Lynx played the Sparks and had to come back from nine down to stay perfect on the very young season, winning by eight, 92-84.

Six-year pro Seimone Augustus led the way for the Lynx with 25 points. She was backed by veteran Rebekkah Brunson's 17 points and seven rebounds. Taj McWilliams-Franklin contributed eight rebounds, six points and four assists in the winning effort.

The Lynx are now 3-0 and atop the Western Conference standings. They play next on Sunday against the Seattle Storm at 6 p.m. CT. The Storm are 0-2 thus far and will be coming off a 13-point loss to these same LA Sparks.

More on the Minnesota Lynx and the entire WNBA can be found over at Swish Appeal, SB Nation's home for women's basketball.