Sparks give back to young girls in Compton

COMPTON, Calif. — As the WNBA continues to grow, having spaces that support girls in sports becomes increasingly crucial, especially in communities with limited access and resources. 

The Los Angeles Sparks are dedicated to making themselves visible to underserved groups and empowering the future of the WNBA.

On Saturday, In the very heart of Compton, California, 50 girls aged 5 to 14 were invited to a Jr. Sparks clinic, panel discussion, and Q&A session hosted by the LA Sparks in collaboration with Nike and the Shiekh Impact Foundation. 

Sparks players Aaari McDonald and Azurá Stevens along with Compton Mayor Emma Sharif, spoke to aspiring players on the value of education and preparation for the WNBA. Participants were also able to pose their own series of unique questions to McDonald and Stevens to enrich their experience.

Both players shared their favorite pregame meal and interests outside of basketball. Stevens, a WNBA champion and seven-year veteran, revealed that she began playing basketball at the age of 6.

Following the Q&A session, the young Sparks took to the court to practice a range of fundamental drills (ball handling, footwork, and shooting) to improve their skills and development. McDonald, the Sparks' guard and the WNBA's third overall pick in 2021, also stepped in and gave participants coaching. The court was alive with joy and focus. 

At the conclusion of camp, Natalie White, the Los Angeles Sparks' Vice President of Community Relations and Social Impact, personally distributed Nike backpacks along with additional giveaways to participants.