Key to changing brutal Sparks trend may already be hiding in plain sight

Despite having a talented roster that featured Kelsey Plum, Dearica Hamby, Rickea Jackson, Azura Stevens, and Cameron Brink the Sparks missed out on the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season. They finished ninth, just two games behind the Golden State Valkyries and the final playoff spot. 

Nevertheless, it felt like the Sparks were beginning to build something special, and both Plum and Hamby offered a positive outlook after the season that suggested that both would return in free agency. If the Sparks can re-sign Plum and Hamby, they have the basis for a playoff run. 

However, the roster will still need some adjustments. The Sparks were great offensively, especially in July and August, but struggled defensively. Only the Chicago Sky, Dallas Wings, and Connecticut Sun posted a worse defensive rating for the season. So, the Sparks have to get better defensively, which will likely come down to a mixture of getting great defenders in the offseason and a focus on better defensive execution in games. The Sparks may not have to look very far to find a defensive difference-maker and the potential key to a playoff appearance. Having Cameron Brink available for the entire season may be just what the Sparks were missing this season. 

Cameron Brink only played 19 games

Cameron Brink tore her ACL just fifteen games into her rookie season after being the second-overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. Coming back from that injury was a lengthy and difficult process that lasted into the 2025 season. Brink finally returned to the court in late July and played nineteen games. 

Those nineteen games didn’t represent Brink’s true impact and talent, though. Brink came off the bench and only averaged 12.8 points. While she had an immediate defensive impact, her offensive production and time on the court were limited. 

That should look much different next season. 

Brink should come into the next season ready for a breakout year

Next season may be the year fans can finally see Cameron Brink at full strength. In 2024, she barely got a chance to get used to the WNBA, and this year she was working her way back from a devastating injury. By the time the next season rolls around, Brink will have had time to work on her game and get into the best shape possible after her ACL tear. 

Brink will spend the offseason playing in Unrivaled. She was already on a roster last season, but never got a chance to suit up. So, this winter will be her first Unrivaled season, which should prepare her well for the next WNBA campaign. Azura Stevens credited Unrivaled with unlocking her offensive game. Hopefully, it will have a similar effect on Brink. 

With her size, rim protection, and ability to shoot threes Brink makes a thrilling 3-on-3 prospect. She was initially a part of the 3×3 team for the Olympics, but had to miss the competition due to her injury.