The 2025 WNBA season has been a turbulent ride for the Los Angeles Sparks. Despite adding All-Star guard Kelsey Plum during the offseason in hopes of reviving their playoff chances, the team has struggled to find rhythm.
Currently sitting at a disappointing 7-14 record, the Sparks’ only recent bright spot was a gritty 92-88 win over the Connecticut Sun on July 13.
But as frustration builds among fans and analysts alike, one sophomore standout might be quietly developing into the difference maker the Sparks need.
Rickea Jackson Might Be the Solution That the Los Angeles Sparks Need Now
In a recent Q&A session with “For the Win,” Rickea Jackson, the Sparks’ promising forward, opened up about the specific areas she focused on during the offseason.
“I would definitely have to say being more confident shooting the three. Focusing on my defense as well. I feel like, of course, a player wants to get better at everything. I personally want to sharpen every tool in my toolbox, but tightening up my handle, my three-point shooting, and my defense were the main things I was really honing in on,” said Jackson.
Jackson has become an important figure on the Los Angeles Sparks roster in the 2025 season. She stunned her fans on June 11 with an impressive 30-point game against the Las Vegas Aces.
She shot 11-for-17 from the field and 4-for-8 from three-point range in that game. She is also currently averaging 12.5 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists while shooting 41.2% from the field.
Her enhanced three-point confidence can stretch defenses, creating space for teammates like Plum and Dearica Hamby. Her improved defensive skills, where she leverages her length and quickness, can help disrupt opponents and secure crucial stops.
Moreover, tighter ball-handling may enable Jackson to create her own shots and facilitate plays, adding versatility to the Sparks’ offense.
“During Unrivaled, having trainers, having practice, playing games ― that was really good for the people that were there because it’s like we still get to play basketball. We still get to be accessible to these fans, and I feel like that’s very important, and it’s fun. I feel like being able to do that was amazing,” added Jackson during the Q&A session.
While Jackson’s improved three-point shooting and defense are critical for the Los Angeles Sparks’ hopes of reversing their tough 2025 season, the team cannot rely solely on her contributions.
Support from veterans like Plum and Hamby is essential to turning the tide. Plum is averaging 20.1 points and 5.8 assists per game with 35% three-point shooting and continues to be the Sparks’ offensive engine.
Meanwhile, Hamby is contributing 16.8 points and 7.6 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 53.8% from the field, and she’s bringing both experience and consistency to the frontcourt.
As the Sparks prepare to take on the Washington Mystics on July 15, all eyes will be on whether Jackson’s offseason work can help translate into more consistent wins for the team.
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