The LA Sparks are facing internal controversy following a new social media ad seeking male practice players. The ad, which has drawn mixed reactions, has raised concerns about the safety and appropriateness of male participants in practices with the women’s team. Cameron Brink, the Sparks’ #22 player, recently shared her discomfort with the situation during an episode of her “Straight to Cam” podcast, which she co-hosts with Sydel Curry-Lee.
Brink expressed unease over the type of responses the ad generated, revealing that some comments were unsettling. “My confession is I’m really icked out by the potential new practice players,” Brink admitted. “Usually, we use [USC] college guys that also practice with the women’s team there. All the comments are like, ‘Let Cameron Brink back me down’ or something about Rickea or Kelsey. Who are we trusting coming into this gym?”
Her honest reflections on the issue highlight potential safety and professionalism concerns regarding the new practice players. Brink’s openness in discussing these feelings is commendable, though the Sparks organization has yet to provide a response to media inquiries about the situation.
The controversy underscores the delicate balance sports teams must maintain when vetting and introducing new players of the opposite sex into the practice arena to help women’s professional leagues. As the Sparks navigate this issue, it raises broader questions about trust, safety, and respect in training environments.