TORRANCE, CA – The Los Angeles Sparks have been plagued with injuries the last few years. However, thanks to a groundbreaking partnership with UCLA Health, the team is hoping to change that.
The Sparks announced a seven-figure partnership with UCLA Health, who will be the official healthcare partner for the team and serve as official team physicians. The Sparks join the UCLA Health sports family which includes the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Dodgers, and UCLA Athletics.
Head coach/GM Derek Fisher said this partnership will not only give the team the healthcare they deserve, but also help the Sparks promote change in the community when it comes to health care inequalities.
“We hope to provide a platform and a stage in professional women’s basketball that UCLA can’t reach,” said Fisher. “The reach that they already have, we hope to enhance that.”
“In the WNBA and in basketball, men and women of color, we think we have a great opportunity to help lead the charge in terms of the inequities and unfairness to be honest, in the system in terms of healthcare,” Fisher continued. “UCLA is just a great partner in that regard too.”
The UCLA medical team will provide 24/7 concierge treatment, ranging from orthopedic to physical therapy, as well as mental health services. The health care provider will also be a prominent fixture throughout the organization. UCLA will have a significant presence during Sparks’ home games at Crypto.com Arena and will be featured on the Sparks’ media backdrops.
