Just two games into her anticipated second season with the LA Sparks, Rickea Jackson has been placed in concussion protocol following a collision during a game. The incident occurred on Sunday in a matchup against the Minnesota Lynx when Jackson went head-to-head with Alanna Smith, leaving her temporarily down on the floor before medical staff and teammates escorted her to the locker room.
The former No. 4 draft pick was expected to play a significant role for the Sparks this year, but her involvement has been halted as she undergoes recovery. In response to the injury, Jackson’s mother requested support from fans during her healing process.
“Please keep her in your prayers….please keep the health of all of the players in your prayers. What they do is not for the weak…”
—Jackson’s mom
Meanwhile, the injury compounds challenges for the Sparks, who are already without Cameron Brink, their other top draft pick from 2024, as she continues to recuperate from an ACL injury sustained last year.
LA Sparks turn to rookie Sarah Ashlee Barker to cover Jackson’s absence
With Jackson off the court, the LA Sparks have needed to adjust their lineup to fill the gap. In their subsequent game against the Phoenix Mercury on Wednesday, rookie Sarah Ashlee Barker was inserted into the starting lineup in just her third professional appearance. Selected No. 9 in the 2025 draft, Barker is still acclimating to the pace and demands of the WNBA level.
During her extended 27 minutes of play in the Sparks’ narrow three-point loss, Barker recorded two points and four assists, though she struggled with her shooting, going 1-for-7 from the floor. Her performance reflects the growing pains of a young player stepping into a larger role amid unforeseen circumstances.
With Jackson expected to miss multiple games while remaining in concussion protocol, Barker’s playing time may increase further as the team seeks stability in the forward position. These minutes offer valuable experience for Barker as she works to develop into a more consistent contributor for the Sparks.
Impact and outlook for LA Sparks amid ongoing player challenges
Rickea Jackson’s injury represents a significant setback for the LA Sparks as they navigate the opening month of the season. The absence of two key draft picks—Jackson and Cameron Brink—limits the team’s depth and heightens pressure on role players to rise to the challenge.
Jackson’s health and recovery will be closely monitored in the coming weeks, with hopes centered on a swift and full return to play. In the meantime, the Sparks must rely on emerging talent like Barker to maintain competitiveness and adapt their strategies without their top forward. How long Jackson will be sidelined remains uncertain, but the situation underscores the physical demands the players endure on the court.