Sparks’ Williams is suspended 10 games

Sparks guard Riquna Williams was suspended without pay for 10 games because of an alleged domestic violence incident, the WNBA announced Tuesday.

Williams was arrested in late April and charged with two felony counts, one of which involved assault of someone with whom she had a relationship. Williams faces one count of aggravated assault with a firearm. She pleaded not guilty to both charges in May. Her next hearing date is scheduled for Aug. 16.

“Based on the investigation, consultation, and a careful weighing of all the facts and circumstances, the WNBA determined that a 10-game suspension was appropriate,” the league said in a statement.

Her suspension begins Thursday when the Sparks host the Dallas Wings. She isn’t eligible to return until Aug. 22 against the Indiana Fever.

Williams’ penalty surpasses the seven-game suspensions given to the Phoenix Mercury’s Brittney Griner and Dallas Wings’ Glory Johnson after their 2015 domestic violence incident. The WNBA dismissed Sparks forward Rhonda Mapp in 2003 and gave her a two-year suspension for violating its drug policy. Mapp never returned to the league. — Mia Berry

Natasha Howard denied allegations that she abused her wife in a statement provided by her lawyer. The Seattle Storm All-Star was accused by her wife on social media Saturday of physically threatening and abusing her. No charges against Howard have been filed.

Minnesota Lynx scoring leader Odyssey Sims is due back in court in September on drunk-driving charges. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, Sims was pulled over for speeding and an improper lane change about 1 a.m. on June 6.