After 6 straight losing seasons, the Sparks bet on youth and a $150 million practice facility

The Los Angeles Sparks are seeking a brighter future after six straight losing seasons come to an end. The team has traded star guard Kelsey Plum and retired WNBA MVP Nneka Ogwumike, indicating a commitment to rebuilding. Fresh from a two-and-a-half-week break for the FIBA World Cup, the Sparks (15-25) have four games left, all against playoff-bound teams.

Coach Lynne Roberts praised her players' dedication, stating they've shown up daily to learn and improve. Ogwumike, who spent 12 seasons with the Sparks, expressed excitement about the league's young talent and her desire to empower them as she was empowered in her early career.

The Sparks haven't had a winning record or made the playoffs since 2020. Since then, they've made three WNBA championships but none since 2016. In the Plum trade to Phoenix, the Sparks secured Monique Akoa Makani, a 25-year-old guard who performed well in the playoffs for the Mercury. The team currently holds two potential first-round picks next year, should USC star JuJu Watkins declare for the WNBA draft.

With a new general manager set to join and a $150 million practice facility set to open before next season, the Sparks are investing in the long-term health of the franchise.