2024 is a challenging year for the Los Angeles Sparks, with a lack of optimism for improvement.
Injuries and poor performance plagued the team, leading to the mutual parting of ways between head coach Curt Miller and the organization.
The departure of Miller came as a surprise to some, including player Dearica Hamby, who expressed support for the coach on social media.
A little lost for words honestly…. this is hard for me as a big part of my transition success and support to LA has been Curt. I hope there is grace in this process for a proven, amazing coach. Everything shouldn’t fall on his shoulders and there’s so much more that goes into…
— Dearica Marie Hamby (@dearicamarie) September 25, 2024
With no coach and a playoff miss, the Sparks look to the future, with hopes of winning the 2025 WNBA Draft Lottery.
Here’s what went right, what went wrong, and what’s next for the Sparks:
What went right in Los Angeles?
Rookie Rickea Jackson and All-Star Dearica Hamby stood out with strong performances, giving hope for the team’s future.
Hamby’s standout season and Jackson’s promising start point to a positive direction for the Sparks in 2025.
With a solid core in place, including Brink’s return, the Sparks have a foundation to build upon next season.
What went wrong in Los Angeles?
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Injuries, poor execution, and lack of talent hindered the Sparks throughout the season, leading to disappointing results.
Struggles in feeding the ball to Hamby and turnovers contributed to the team’s offensive woes.
Miller took responsibility for the team’s performance, acknowledging the need for improvement.
As a coach, if you own 13-conference titles in 13-years, 2-WNBA Coy, the best record in the W over a 6-season stretch, & 2-final appearances.. you better own when you are having a poor year. I own it, need to be better for our young team. #Sparkswillrise #grind
— Curt Miller (@CurtMillerWBB) August 26, 2024
While injuries played a significant role in the team’s struggles, they do not excuse the disappointing season.
Brink’s season-ending injury and challenges with new signings further derailed the Sparks’ efforts in 2024.
The season was marked by missed opportunities and what-ifs, overshadowing any successes.
What’s next for the Sparks?
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The Sparks’ focus now shifts to the 2025 draft lottery, where they aim to secure the No. 1 pick and select Paige Bueckers, setting the stage for a brighter future
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