The Los Angeles Sparks have secured the No. 2 pick in the WNBA Draft for the second year in a row. They have also announced Lynne Roberts as the new head coach who will be responsible for shaping the team, including rookies Cameron Brink and Rickea Jackson, along with returning players like Dearica Hamby.
Roberts, hailing from Redding, CA, brings 27 years of coaching experience at the college level, with the last nine years spent as the head coach at the University of Utah. She was named the 2023 Pac-12 Coach of the Year and led the Utes to three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances.
Similar to Karl Smesko of the Atlanta Dream, Roberts is expected to bring her successful offensive system from college to the WNBA. Eric Holoman, governor and managing partner of the Sparks, praised Roberts for her modern approach to basketball and her ability to build relationships.
Holoman stated, “Lynne is an outstanding coach and leader. We are thrilled to bring her decades of winning coaching experience to our organization.”
Roberts is known for her high-volume 3-point shooting offense at Utah, which led to efficient scoring opportunities. Alissa Pili, a product of Utah selected by the Minnesota Lynx, thrived in Roberts’ offensive system.
Sparks general manager Raegan Pebley praised Roberts for her innovative offensive approach and up-tempo style that aligns with the team’s vision. Pebley highlighted how Roberts maximized talent at Utah in a competitive conference.
Expressing gratitude and excitement, Roberts aims to lead the Sparks back to the top of the WNBA. She believes in the team’s potential and is committed to competing for championships.
Roberts said, “I am honored to be named the next head coach of the Los Angeles Sparks….The Sparks have a talented roster with tremendous upside, and we will compete tirelessly for WNBA championships.”
Gavin Petersen will take over as head coach at Utah after serving as Roberts’ associate head coach for the past six seasons.
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