Sales is a six-time All-Star D. Lippitt/NBAE/Getty Images

Q. Many experts picked you to finish out of the playoffs at the beginning of the season. Is that something that motivated you?
"That has happened the past couple of years anyway, so we don't read much into it - the predictions, opinions. If we just go out there and work hard, we can prove to ourselves that we are a good team and we don't necessarily worry about proving it to anyone else."

Q. In this final week, what things do the Sun need to do to guarantee a spot in the playoffs and go in on a roll?
"We really just need to win games. You can't depend on the other teams to lose, so if we keep winning, we will put ourselves in a really great position. We hold the advantage in many of the tie-breakers in the league, so if we finish off with the same record or better, we will make the playoffs."

Q. Is there a team to beat in the East at this point?
"It is still very much up in the air. Our teams to beat are Charlotte and New York at this point. We have to focus on them because we see them next. If we can beat them, it will put us in a great position."

Q. Do you see this race going down to the final games this weekend?
"I definitely think so. Unless a team can make a three-game run right now, it will go down to this weekend. So far, teams win, then lose, then win, then lose - that has been the pattern right now."

Q. Any preference as to which team you would play in the first round?
"No, it really doesn't matter. We have proven that we can beat all of these teams. The only team up on us right now is Charlotte, but we hold the season edge over these other teams."

Q. How instrumental has the development of Lindsay Whalen been to the success of the team so far?
"I think she has really helped us. She has matured quickly and didn't take a year or two to get the jitters out and be ready like some rookies do. She understands the WNBA, came in with a lot of confidence and did what she needed to do to help us win. She doesn't try and do too much and really understands her role on this team. Her stepping up has definitely put us is a favorable position."

Q. For fans who have yet to make it to a game at the Mohegan Sun Arena, what is the best part about playing in Connecticut?
"I think the best thing is our fan support. The size of the arena creates a perfect atmosphere so there is excitement in every seat. Watching us play, we get up and down the floor really well. We are not a 'set-up' team. We like to run, so that creates a lot of opportunities for different people. We like to have fun and win, so you'll see a lot of players who are excited to play and will do whatever it takes to win."

Q. With this season being a bit longer than you are accustomed to, is there anything you are really looking forward to doing this offseason?
"It's just dragging along, isn't it...? (laughs). Nah, maybe just get some rest. With another month without games, it was almost like another training camp. You usually have one at the beginning of the season, but to have two in one year is a little tough. Some people have to go right overseas and everyone's plans are a lot different. But I look forward to the rest."

Q. Do you plan on playing overseas this offseason?
"I don't think so. I usually don't, but you never know."