The Los Angeles Sparks have made a significant move by appointing Lynne Roberts, the former Utah coach, as their new head coach. This decision was officially announced by the franchise on Tuesday night. Roberts brings a wealth of experience, having spent over nine seasons at Utah and guiding the team to three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. Her coaching prowess was recognized when she was named the Pac-12 Coach of the Year in 2023.
The Utah Utes, who have started the current season with a 3-1 record, will now be led by Gavin Petersen, the team's associate head coach. The Sparks' leadership expressed their excitement over Roberts' appointment, highlighting her modern approach to basketball, strong communication skills, and ability to foster relationships as key factors in her selection.
Roberts takes over a Sparks team that boasts a promising young core comprising players like Rickea Jackson, Cameron Brink, and Dearica Hamby. Additionally, the team holds the No. 2 pick in the upcoming WNBA draft. The franchise is looking to bounce back from a challenging previous season, where they finished with an 8-32 record, the worst in the league.
Expressing her gratitude for the opportunity, Roberts stated, 'I am honored to be named the next head coach of the Los Angeles Sparks.' She acknowledged the shared commitment with the ownership group towards establishing a winning culture and team. Roberts steps into the role following the departure of Curt Miller, who is now serving as the GM of the Dallas Wings.
Roberts' hiring marks the second instance this month of a current college coach transitioning to a WNBA head coaching position, with Karl Smesko of Florida Gulf Coast recently taking over as the head coach of the Atlanta Dream. As of now, there are three head coaching vacancies in the WNBA, with the Washington Mystics, Connecticut Sun, and Dallas Wings still on the lookout for new leadership.
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