One of the WNBA’s most talked-about defenders could be back on the hardwood soon. After a 13-month recovery from a torn ACL, Cameron Brink has officially been ‘cleared’ to return, via The Athletic's Ben Pickman.
Though she didn’t play during Saturday night’s matchup against the New York Liberty, she participated in pregame shootaround on the Barclay Center court. A promising sign that she’s getting back into rhythm, her return could be the boost the Sparks need to sustain their midseason turnaround and build on their five-game winning streak.
“I’m cleared. It’s just getting reps at this point,” Brink told reporters. “Just getting back up to speed with everybody.”
It’s been a mentally tough but growth-filled journey for the 2024 WNBA second overall pick. In April, Brink opened up about her progress on her podcast “Straight to Cam” with NBA wife and co-host Sydel Curry-Lee. Proud of how far she’s come and eager to return, she reflected on the tribulations she’s faced – including staying hopeful after a season-ending injury.
“Anyone going through an injury now that's – ACL, Achilles, anything – just know that I feel like towards the end give yourself more grace.” Brink said. ” Give yourself as much grace as you did in the beginning. That’s what I’m trying to tell myself right now.”
Feeling like an “athlete” again has been one of Brink’s biggest hurdles. Encouraged by other players who’ve reminded her that the final stretch of recovery often brings the most growth, she admits progress hasn’t always felt linear. While she’s not expecting her body to immediately return to form, having great trainers and a strong support system has helped her rediscover beauty in the struggle.
“[It’s] really fun to keep it light and not so serious and change up your scenery.” Brink shared about her recovery trainings. “I notice that some days I go to the same gym I usually go to and notice more knee pain but then if I go and just change my scenery [and] my environment, I feel completely different. It's all mental, it's all mental.”
Before her injury, Brink was averaging 7.5 points and 5.3 rebounds in 15 regular season games. Nicknamed for her killer blocks and defense, Killa Cam was known to be one of the best protectors of the rim. She was ranked 3rd league-wide in blocks per game with 2.3 blocks as a rookie.
If Brink is back on the court, she could be the missing puzzle piece the Sparks need for a playoff push. With Rae Burrell back in the lineup, the addition of Julie Vanloo, and now the return of Brink’s Security, the Sparks might finally have all the ingredients for a second-half revival.