The Sparks secured one of their most important free agent of the offseason on Saturday by agreeing to a deal to bring back forward Dearica Hamby. The All-Star announced the deal herself on social media (warning: NSFW language).
Hamby has blossomed in
Los Angeles after coming over via trade with the Aces. Last season, she averaged a career-high 18.4 points along with 7.9 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.6 steals per game. Most importantly, she developed a stellar connection with Kelsey Plum as the season went on.
Her two best statistical seasons in the league have come over the last two years with the Sparks. More than that, she’s also developed into a leader for the franchise and the young LA roster. Alongside Plum, Hamby is the face of this version of the Sparks, which made re-signing her an important move this offseason.
Late last season, Hamby spoke about wanting to stay in Los Angeles under new head coach Lynne Roberts as the team was surging in the final weeks of the campaign.
With Hamby secured and the signing of Nneka Ogwumike, the Sparks have their front court locked in for next season with Cameron Brink starting at center. The departure of Azurá Stevens opened up a spot for Nneka and keeps a solid front court rotation moving into this season.
Now, the focus turns to the future of Rickea Jackson and whether she will be part of this Sparks side moving forward.
You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude or on Bluesky at @jacobrude.bsky.social.
