Sparks re-sign Nneka Ogwumike to reported 1-year deal
The Los Angeles Sparks re-signed seven-time All-Star forward Nneka Ogwumike, the team announced Friday.
Ogwumike's new deal is a one-year contract worth $165,000, a source told ESPN's M.A. Voepel. Her salary is less than the super-max of $234,936 and allows the Sparks to manage their salary-cap issues.
Los Angeles selected Ogwumike with the No. 1 overall pick in 2012.
"I started in Los Angeles as a wide-eyed rookie hopeful to last and to lead in a city and with a franchise defined by its legends and legacy," Ogwumike said in a statement. "Over the last 11 years, with champions and with challenges, my veteran vision remains clear and committed to what it truly means to play in this league, in THIS city, for 12 seasons, repping that iconic purple and gold."
Ogwumike has enjoyed a decorated career since breaking into the league out of Stanford, earning five All-WNBA selections, five WNBA All-Defensive team nods, an MVP award, and a league championship. She was named to the WNBA's 25th anniversary team in 2021.
Ogwumike continued to play at a high level last season, averaging 18.1 points, 6.6 boards, two assists, and 1.6 steals over 34 appearances.
Los Angeles is coming off a disappointing 13-23 campaign. The club poached Curt Miller, the two-time WNBA Coach of the Year, from the Connecticut Sun during the offseason.
"Nneka is an extraordinary person and teammate," said Miller. "Not only is she a top-level leader for the Sparks, but she is a leader for the entire league. Her work ethic and dedication to her craft is exceptional.
"She's coming off another All-WNBA season and continues to add levels to her game. I couldn't be more excited to coach Nneka."