Cameron Brink, the standout rookie for the Los Angeles Sparks, has made it clear she won’t tolerate misguided speculation about her dedication to basketball.
The 2024 WNBA No. 2 overall draft pick has been sidelined since June after suffering a torn ACL, but one fan’s harsh comment about her recovery efforts prompted Brink to speak out.
The former Stanford star had been averaging 7.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game before her season came to a halt due to the injury.
While she’s remained in the public eye-most notably through a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit feature in May-not everyone has been supportive.
On Instagram, one Sparks fan questioned her priorities, suggesting Brink was more focused on public appearances than getting back on the court.
“She should’ve been back on the court now,” the user commented. “Tells me that if she put as much work into rehab as she puts into walking down red carpets and schmoozing, she’d be back by now.”
Brink didn’t hesitate to address the accusation.
Brink defends rehab efforts amid growing expectations
“Usually I don’t give energy to this type of stuff but I have time today,” Brink wrote in response. “I’m working INCREDIBLY hard every day. I would give anything to be out on the court right now.
“Basketball is my passion and everything to me… to say this you aren’t a real fan. Thank you to those who understand ACLs can take a year & giving me grace. I cannot wait until I get to play again.”
Her comments reflect a broader challenge that many injured athletes face-balancing personal lives and public visibility while recovering behind the scenes.
ACL injuries, particularly in high-intensity sports like basketball, can require up to a full year of recovery time depending on severity and physical response.
Brink’s head coach, Lynne Roberts, provided an update last week, confirming that the rookie is still restricted to non-contact activities but is making steady progress.
“She’s moving well, doing the right things,” Roberts told reporters. “We’re letting her rehab at her pace. There’s no reason to push her back before she’s ready.”
The WNBA community, including players and coaches, has become increasingly vocal in advocating for athlete health over rushed returns.
Brink’s response and Roberts’ remarks align with this trend, underlining the importance of long-term readiness over short-term optics.
Beyond the court, Brink‘s SI Swimsuit appearance was seen by many as a sign of her rising profile. Rather than a distraction, it offered a platform for her to represent a growing generation of women athletes balancing competitive excellence with commercial presence.
Despite the criticism, Brink continues to garner support from fans who recognize the rigors of ACL recovery. Her transparency offers insight into both the mental and physical challenges of navigating a major injury during a pivotal season.
While there’s still no firm date for her return, the 22-year-old remains focused on her comeback. And when she does return to the hardwood, expect her to bring the same intensity that made her one of the most anticipated rookies of 2024.
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