{
  "id": 9851343,
  "title": "Los Angeles Sparks part ways with head coach Lynne Roberts after two seasons with no playoff appearances",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/25/los-angeles-sparks-part-ways-with-head-coach-lynne-roberts-after-two",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-25T22:35:41.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/los-angeles-sparks-part-ways-223541984.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Los Angeles Sparks have ended their relationship with head coach Lynne Roberts after two seasons marked by a lack of playoff appearances. Roberts, who joined the team in November 2024, led the Sparks to a 37-51 record and missed the playoffs in both years, extending the franchise's playoff drought to six years. During her tenure, the team underwent significant changes, including the ousting of general manager Reahen Pebley and the trade of star player Kelsey Plum. The decision to part ways with Roberts was not unexpected, given the team's continued struggles on the court. The Sparks expressed gratitude to Roberts for her efforts and wished her well in the future, stating they have an entire offseason to restructure and plan for the 2027 season. Lakers assistant coach Lindsey Harding is a potential candidate for the head coaching position.",
  "summary": "In a move that surprises no one, Lynne Roberts will not be returning as head coach of the Sparks.",
  "key_points": [
    "Los Angeles Sparks fired head coach Lynne Roberts after two seasons.",
    "Team had no playoff appearances in Roberts' tenure, extending drought to six years.",
    "Sparks expressed gratitude to Roberts, plan restructuring for 2027 season."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}