LOS ANGELES, CA – The Los Angeles Sparks announced the re-signing of former 2016 WNBA MVP and champion Nneka Ogwumike to a multi-year deal. The six-time All-Star averaged 13.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists per game last season in the Wubble.
In addition to being a leader on the court for the Sparks, she was a leader for the league off the court as well speaking out against social injustices and police brutality in the midst of the horrendous events that occurred over the summer of 2020.
Ogwumike used her platform and position as president of the WNBPA to meet with political leaders to voice the concerns of the players and the communities they represent in what turned out to be an unforgettable year.
Now her responsibility as a leader will be enhanced on the court with the departures of fellow All-Stars Candace Parker and Chelsea Gray. However, Ogwumike is ready to be “handed the keys to the car” for the Sparks.
“As far as being handed the keys to the car, there’s times I felt like with the Sparks that I was the designated driver,” Ogwumike said with a smile. “I’m very familiar with being behind the wheel.”
“I don’t see leading as a burden; it’s been a role that’s been different for each person in my time here, and I anticipate that’s what it’s going to continue to be,” Ogwumike continued. “I’m not the only one here, but now I’m officially the longest person that’s been on the Sparks. That holds a lot of history, a lot of growth. All I want to do is contribute to championship culture that we’re looking to cultivate…and I love driving.”
Ogwumike will certainly be behind the wheel more often in a season of transition for the Sparks with several new faces; however, there will be a few familiar ones such as her sister Chiney Ogwumike who also re-signed with the team.
Chiney opted out of the 2020 season due to the COVID pandemic, but it allowed her to launch a second career as a TV basketball analyst and radio personality for ESPN.
However, she will continue her playing career with the Sparks and is looking forward to getting back on the court.
“This new team might have new faces, but at the same time the mindset is still the same,” Chiney said. “It’s pursuing championships, playing to the best of our abilities, individually and collectively. We’ve always known no matter who’s out there, the mission remains the same. That’s the energy I’m bringing back.”
At least Nneka will have her sister riding shotgun to help navigate through this journey that is the 2021 WNBA season trying to keep the Sparks competitive and maintaining a championship mindset and standard.
