The Los Angeles Sparks are making headlines with significant developments that signal a new era for the franchise. The team has announced plans for a groundbreaking $150 million training and practice facility in El Segundo, set to open in 2027. This 55,000-square-foot complex, designed in collaboration with global architecture firm Gensler, will be the largest investment by a single team in women's sports history. Sparks' managing partner Eric Holoman emphasized the facility's potential to provide players with world-class resources, enhancing their performance both on and off the court.
In roster news, star guard Kelsey Plum is set to join the ranks of the Unrivaled Basketball league after opting out of the upcoming WNBA season. Plum's involvement in this three-on-three league, co-founded by fellow players Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, marks an exciting new chapter for her career.
Additionally, Latricia Trammell has returned to the Sparks as a special assistant to head coach Lynne Roberts. Trammell's previous experience with the Sparks from 2019 to 2022, where she played an instrumental role in developing talent, will be invaluable as the franchise seeks to retool after a season that saw them miss the playoffs.
Despite their playoff absence, the Sparks are optimistic about their future. Analysts note that the team is no longer in rebuild mode but is instead focusing on retooling for a more competitive season ahead. As the Sparks look to leverage these developments, they hope to reclaim their place among the WNBA's elite teams.