What’s clear based on the Sparks’ offseason moves is that they are focused on winning now.
They’ve brought back Nneka Ogwumike, re-signed Dearica Hamby and have just executed a trade sending Rickea Jackson to the Chicago Sky in exchange for Ariel Atkins. Alexa Philippou of ESPN was the first to confirm the trade.
This trade has been heavily rumored, with Atklis being linked to the Sparks for the past week. With Atkins joining the Sky.
The decision to trade Jackson was certainly a difficult one. Not only was she a fan favorite, but she is an electrifying and exciting young prospect. Jackson averaged 14.7 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. While those aren’t numbers that jump off the page, the two-year forward has plenty of room for growth and the Sparks might regret this deal if she becomes an All-Star player.
Also, Atkins’ production isn’t that different from what Jackson has shown she can do.
Last season, Atkins averaged 13.1 points per game and shot 36.1% from 3-point shooting range. In Chicago, she was expected to be one of the franchise’s key pieces as they built alongside players like Angel Reese, but the Sky have traded her and are clearly going in a different direction.
Considering that Atkins is a backcourt player, the Sparks now have a guard they can pair with Plum as they aim to return to the postseason. The last time Sparks made the playoffs was 2020.
This live story will be updated as more information becomes available.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
