Cameron Brink and the LA Sparks ended a three-game losing streak with an 81-72 victory over the Dallas Wings at Crypto.com Arena. This win is crucial for boosting the morale of a team that has struggled in the first 10 games of the season with a 3-7 record. The next game won’t be easy as they face the two-time champions, the Las Vegas Aces.
The game saw the attendance of Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler, who supported the Sparks and rookie Cameron Brink by wearing her jersey with the number 22, the same number he wears for the Heat. Butler is a favorite of Brink, the number 2 pick in the WNBA draft, alongside Stephen Curry. Brink contributed to the win with a double-double, scoring 10 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.Dearica Hamby also delivered a double-double with 22 points and 12 rebounds. Brink has shown her defensive prowess in her first games, ranking third in the league in blocks with 2.5 per game.
Butler’s visit to the West Coast created a buzz among Lakers fans, who once again watched the NBA Finals from home and hope their arch-rivals, the Celtics, don’t lift the Larry O’Brien trophy against the Dallas Mavericks. As is often the case at the end of each season, trade rumors involving key players have been swirling. Butler, who couldn’t play in the playoffs with Miami in their elimination against Boston due to injury, received a warning from team president Pat Riley, which has further fueled doubts about Butler’s future with the Heat.
With two years left on his contract with Miami and at 34 years old, Butler has limited time to secure his first championship. Despite his high level of play and coming close in two finals series, joining forces with LeBron James and Anthony Davis could elevate the Lakers to title contention, forming a fearsome “Big 3.” However, given their ages, it might be more aptly called the “Big 30.” With much yet to unfold this season and in the offseason, one thing is certain: Jimmy looks good in purple and gold.
