By: Jennifer Portee
4/27/2026
The Sparks didn’t just win their preseason opener they controlled it from the jump.
Facing the Nigerian national team in San Diego, Los Angeles wasted no time setting the pace, opening the game on a 12-0 run and never looking back. Nigeria made a push in the second quarter, but the Sparks kept their foot on the gas and cruised to an 89-63 win that felt comfortable from start to finish.
And for a team with new pieces and fresh energy, this was exactly the kind of start you want.
The additions showed up right away. Ariel Atkins looked locked in early, knocking down her shots with ease, while Erica Wheeler played the role of floor general, keeping everything organized and making sure teammates got clean looks. It was smooth, controlled basketball nothing forced, everything flowing.
But if there was one presence that really changed the game, it was Cameron Brink on the defensive end.
She didn’t just block shots she changed the entire feel of possessions. Whether it showed up in the stat sheet or not, Brink’s timing, length, and instincts had Nigeria second guessing themselves in the paint all night. Head coach Lynne Roberts couldn’t hide her excitement about what Brink brings defensively, especially as the anchor on the weak side.
That defensive identity is something the Sparks are clearly leaning into early and it’s already looking sharper than last season.
Even without Nneka Ogwumike on the floor, her presence was still felt. According to Brink, the veteran leader stayed engaged throughout, communicating, guiding, and making sure everyone stayed connected. It’s that mix of vocal leadership and player accountability that’s shaping this team’s early chemistry.
And then there were the rookies.
Ta’Niya Latson had some early nerves nothing unusual for a first preseason run but settled in as the game went on. Once she found her rhythm, her speed and ability to attack downhill started to show. By the second half, she looked much more comfortable, finishing with a well-rounded stat line that showed her versatility.
Chance Gray, on the other hand, wasted no time making her presence felt. Even with limited minutes, she came in ready, knocking down shots from deep and holding her own defensively. Her confidence stood out especially for a rookie in her first game.
That balance between vets and young talent is what makes this Sparks group intriguing.
Kelsey Plum led the scoring effort with 22 points, picking up right where she left off from her recent run of strong play. Gray added 14 off four made threes, while Brink contributed 10 points along with her defensive impact. Latson chipped in across the board with seven points, five rebounds, and six assists.
Not everyone suited up Ogwumike and Rae Burrell (ankle) were both out, but the potential still showed.
More importantly, the energy did too.
It’s just preseason, and yes, this was a game the Sparks were expected to win. But how they won matters. The ball movement, the defensive activity, the composure it all pointed to a team that’s already building something solid.
Next up is a preseason matchup in Portland on May 3, before the games start to count on May 10.