Home/NBA

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Cameron Brink is slowly planting her feet for the LA Sparks in the WNBA. The 6 ft 4 in has shown promising signs in the opening two games of the Sparks’ 2024 campaign. However, she still has some big shoes to fill, considering the legacy that the legendary LA Sparks No. 9 left. A recipient of the Lisa Leslie Award in 2024, Brink recently opened up about how the 2× WNBA champion has been an inspiration to her when she made an appearance at the popular Podcast P with Paul George.

The guest was asked by one of the co-hosts, Dallas Rutherford, to reflect on her relationship with Lisa Leslie. Brink responded by saying, “For me, she’s one of my biggest idols. She’s such an icon who likes doing both. She was, in my opinion, one of the best centers. And then she would just go off-court and be a baddie. Like, be a model. Do all of it. That’s why I love her so much. “

In addition to this, the 2024 Naismith Defensive Player of the Year also complimented Leslie on her unapologetic attitude. Then, Cameron Brink opened up about what it meant for her to clinch the Lisa Leslie award, adding, “To win that award was a huge thing for me. It meant the world to me.” 

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

There are a few similarities that can be drawn between these phenomenal athletes. They are more or less the same height, with Leslie being an inch taller. While Brink has been a national champion at Stanford, the 51-year-old is a two-time world champion with the Sparks. Moreover, both have been adjudged as the Defensive Player of the Year in their respective realms.

The upcoming challenge for Cameron Brink

For the moment, Cameron Brink will have to make the most of her defensive skills in the Sparks’ next fixture. After losing both their regular season games, LA will now host the Washington Mystics at the Walter Pyramid. The Mystics are also winless so far (0–3) and will look to pen their account on Tuesday.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Anyhow, it will not be a walk in the park for them, as Cameron Brink and Co. as Sparks have averaged  80.5 points per game in the 2023-24 season. While the Mystics are just above Indiana in the Eastern Conference, LA currently occupies the 6th spot in the West. After a tremendous fight against back-t0-back champions the last time around, fans will expect the Sparks to capitalize on the home conditions.

But the 7-13 record on the road last season poses somewhat of a concern for the 3-time champs. Come what may, the face-off has the credentials to be an enthralling one. Who do you think will seize the win? Let us know in the comments.