LOS ANGELES, CA – In an offseason that has had some turnover with veteran stars moving on and new, unproven players coming, the Los Angeles Sparks decided one vet was too valuable to get away in Seimone Augustus.
The Sparks re-signed the four-time WNBA champion who, despite only averaging 5.9 points in 21 games in her first season with the team provided an element of “invaluable leadership experience last year,” according to Sparks GM/head coach Derek Fisher.
With the Sparks losing both Candace Parker (Chicago Sky) and Chelsea Gray (Las Vegas Aces) to free agency, the Sparks could use somebody as experienced and accomplished as “Money Mone” to be that veteran in the locker room that all the players look up to.
Augustus spoke about how her role would have to change from leading more by example to being more vocal in the 2021 season.
“You have to step up when an opportunity presents itself,” Augustus said via Zoom. “I’ve been preparing for this; I’ve done this before, as far as being a vocal leader. It took me years to get to that point; I was always the leader that led by example.”
“Obviously, at my older age, the leading by example is only going to go so far,” Augustus continued with a smile. “Words and the way that you talk to people and communicate, it goes a long way and the effectiveness of that. Being able to criticize and receive criticism to get the best out of our team.”
Augustus wouldn’t confirm to the media if this would be the final season of her illustrious career but she affirmed retiring as a Spark.
“For now I’m just enjoying the opportunity and possibilities, to be honest,” Augustus said. “What I do know for sure is I will retire as a Spark, I will have fun with that situation.”
“I’m just excited to be here,” Augustus continued. “Just thinking of the opportunity to do that, growing up watching Lisa Leslie, Nikki Teasley, DeLisha Milton-Jones and players of that caliber that came through this organization; the things they were able to do, I just hope to represent them as well as this organization as best as I can and complete my journey obviously wearing the Los Angeles Sparks jersey.”
While we don’t know what to expect from the Sparks in a season of transition, the organization can count on the leadership, experience and professionalism of Augustus to guide them through any adversity this season.
