The Los Angeles Sparks took another major step toward contention, acquiring two-time All-Star Ariel Atkins from the Chicago Sky in a sign-and-trade deal that sends rising forward Rickea Jackson to Chicago.
The deal was first reported by ESPN’s Alexa Philippou and later detailed by Kareem Copeland, confirming Atkins will receive a multiyear contract as part of the agreement.
Sparks Add Defense, Championship Pedigree
Atkins arrives in Los Angeles as one of the WNBA’s premier two-way guards, bringing elite perimeter defense and championship experience to a roster that is quickly taking shape as a contender.
A member of the Washington Mystics’ 2019 title team, Atkins has built a reputation as one of the league’s most consistent defenders. She is a five-time All-Defensive selection and averaged 13.1 points, 3.6 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game last season while shooting 44.4% from the field.
Her addition gives Los Angeles a defensive anchor in the backcourt to complement a star-heavy core that already includes Nneka Ogwumike, Kelsey Plum and Dearica Hamby.
Loaded Sparks Roster Signals Win-Now Push
GettyNneka Ogwumike of the Seattle Storm drives to the hoop against Kelsey Plum and Azura Stevens of the Los Angeles Sparks. Ogwumike returns to Sparks as one of the top free agents.
The Sparks’ aggressive offseason has made their intentions clear.
In addition to acquiring Atkins, the franchise signed Ogwumike, re-signed Plum and Hamby, and added veteran guard Erica Wheeler. The roster also features former No. 2 overall pick Cameron Brink, giving the team a blend of established stars and young talent.
Atkins’ ability to guard elite perimeter players and space the floor — she is a career 36.2% 3-point shooter — addresses a key need for a Sparks team that struggled defensively in stretches last season.
Her role is expected to center on defense and secondary playmaking alongside Plum, who operates as a primary scoring option.
Fit Alongside Kelsey Plum, Frontcourt Stars
Unlike in Chicago, where Atkins was often asked to take on a larger offensive role, her fit in Los Angeles appears more natural.
With Plum handling scoring duties and Ogwumike and Hamby anchoring the frontcourt, Atkins can focus on what she does best — disrupting opposing offenses and providing efficient scoring without high usage.
That balance could be critical as the Sparks aim to return to championship contention for the first time in several seasons.
Parting With Rickea Jackson
The cost for Los Angeles is significant, as the team parts ways with Jackson, the No. 4 overall pick in 2024.
Jackson was named to the All-Rookie Team and averaged 14.7 points in 2025, showing flashes of becoming a high-level scorer. At 6-foot-2, she offered positional versatility and shot 34.8% from 3-point range.
Still, the Sparks prioritized immediate impact over long-term development in making the move.
Big Picture: Sparks Go All-In
The trade underscores a clear shift in direction for Los Angeles — from rebuilding to contending.
With a veteran core, improved defensive identity and multiple All-Star talents, the Sparks are positioning themselves as one of the most dangerous teams entering the 2026 WNBA season.
Adding Atkins may not dominate headlines like scoring stars do, but her presence could ultimately be the piece that elevates the Sparks into legitimate title contention.
Los Angeles Sparks Acquire Ariel Atkins in Blockbuster Trade With Chicago Sky