The Los Angeles Sparks endured a difficult 2025 season, marked by a shaky start that saw them drop 14 of their first 20 games.
This early slump ultimately cost them a playoff berth, as the franchise missed the postseason for the fifth consecutive year. While the season didn’t end how Sparks fans had hoped, there’s growing optimism surrounding the team’s future, largely thanks to the rise of Cameron Brink.
As one of the WNBA’s original franchises, the Sparks have been rebuilding steadily, striving to recapture the success they enjoyed during the Candace Parker era. Although they fell just short of making the playoffs this season, the team’s strong performance in the second half of the year has rekindled hope among fans and analysts alike.
A highlight was their recent victory over the Phoenix Mercury in Phoenix, a game that showcased their improved chemistry and fighting spirit.
Despite their late surge, the Sparks were ultimately eliminated from playoff contention when the Seattle Storm edged out the Golden State Valkyries to claim the final postseason spot.
Still, the trajectory of the team’s progress suggests next season could finally end their five-year playoff drought, and a significant reason for this optimism is Cameron Brink.
Cameron Brink’s rising impact and the Sparks’ new core
Brink’s comeback from a torn ACL, which sidelined her for much of 2024, has become a crucial storyline for the Sparks. Unlike many players who take time to regain their form after injury, Brink has steadily evolved into a defensive powerhouse.
In just 33 career games, she has accumulated an impressive 61 blocks, averaging 1.85 blocks per game. This remarkable figure places her among the top shot blockers in WNBA history, tied for fifth-best all-time with Seattle Storm legend Lauren Jackson. Among active players, she trails only Brittney Griner and A’ja Wilson, two future Naismith Basketball Hall of Famers.
Brink’s defensive prowess extends beyond shot blocking; she also contributes with timely steals and physical presence in the paint, making her a game-changer on that end of the court. In the Sparks’ recent 88-83 win over Phoenix, she recorded four “stocks” (two steals and two blocks), highlighting her ability to impact multiple facets of the game.
As Brink takes on more responsibility, she forms a formidable frontcourt presence alongside backcourt stars Kelsey Plum and Rickea Jackson. Plum’s All-Star guard play and Jackson’s elite scoring skills complement Brink’s defensive dominance, hinting at the emergence of a new “Big Three” in Los Angeles.
If this trio continues to develop chemistry and build on their experience, the Sparks could be poised to return to playoff contention in 2026. For a franchise eager to return to its winning tradition, the blend of Brink’s defense and Plum and Jackson’s offensive firepower provides a solid foundation to build upon.
With a healthy offseason and time to grow together, the Sparks’ future looks brighter than it has in years, making the 2026 season one to watch closely.
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