New Look Sparks Prepare For Preseason Game in Edmonton

No Cap Space was on the scene for the Los Angeles Sparks first open practice as they prepared for their preseason game in Edmonton.

Los Angeles, CA. — The Sparks held their final practice before their preseason debut in Edmonton, Canada against the Seattle Storm. Fans of the team will need to learn patience as the franchise rebuilds under second year head coach Curt Miller, three new assistant coaches, and new GM Raegan Pebley.

Projected Starters

The former franchise player Nneka Ogwumike signed with the Storm after 12 years as a Spark during free agency. That leaves veteran big Dearica Hamby as the lone returning starter on the team. It seems that the rest of the starting lineup will comprise of veterans Lexie Brown, Layshia Clarendon, and offseason acquisition Kia Nurse. Rounding things out will be the Sparks first pick from the 2024 draft, rookie Cameron Brink. The team will be playing without Azura Stevens as she continues to rehab a left arm injury.

Guard Rotation

The team has a lot of guards and roster cuts will be challenging. In addition to the 3 projected starters, players competing for a spot on the final roster include Zia Cooke, Nia Clouden, Aari McDonald, Taylor Mikesell, and Julie Allemand, who has yet to join the team while nursing an injury overseas.

Bright Spots

The fourth overall pick Rickea Jackson impressed in the midrange, knocking down shots from both sides of the court. Rookie third round pick McKenzie Forbes has fit right in. The guard was one of the more vocal players on the sidelines as the team worked on half court sets.

The Sparks received forward Kia Nurse in a trade with Seattle earlier this year. The Ontario native not only brings a veteran presence on the court, but will be able to show the team some of what Edmonton has to offer.

The Sparks also have leadership coming from former USC Trojan Mackenzie Forbes. Forbes was one of the more vocal players at this week's practice and said that it's an area she's grown in and not afraid to bring to the team.