Los Angeles Sparks Trade for All-Star Forward Nneka Ogwumike

Sparks Acquire Six-Time All-Star, 2016 MVP

The Los Angeles Sparks have acquired six-time All-Star forward Nneka Ogwumike from the Dallas Wings in exchange for a 2024 first-round draft pick and a 2025 second-round draft pick, the teams announced Monday.

Ogwumike, 32, is one of the most decorated players in WNBA history. She was the league's MVP in 2016 and has been named to the All-Star team six times. She is also a two-time Olympic gold medalist with Team USA.

The Sparks are hoping that Ogwumike can help them return to contention after missing the playoffs the past two seasons. Ogwumike is a versatile forward who can score, rebound, and defend. She will give the Sparks a much-needed boost on both ends of the court.

Impact on the Sparks

• Ogwumike is a significant upgrade for the Sparks. She is one of the best players in the league and will immediately make the Sparks a contender.
• Ogwumike will help the Sparks improve on both ends of the court. She is a versatile forward who can score, rebound, and defend.
• The Sparks are hoping that Ogwumike can help them return to contention after missing the playoffs the past two seasons.

Impact on the Wings

• The Wings are trading away one of their best players in Ogwumike. However, they are getting a good return in the form of a first-round draft pick.
• The Wings are in a rebuilding mode and are looking to get younger and more athletic. Ogwumike is 32 years old and is not part of the Wings' long-term plans.
• The Wings are hoping that the draft pick they received for Ogwumike can help them build a contender in the future.

What's Next?

The Sparks will open the 2023 season on May 19 against the Las Vegas Aces. The Wings will open the season on May 20 against the New York Liberty.