NBA legend Magic Johnson expressed his excitement as Cameron Brink, the 2024 No. 2 draft pick, is ready to make her season debut for the Los Angeles Sparks on Tuesday at Crypto.com Arena. Brink’s rookie season was interrupted by a devastating knee injury, putting her comeback at the forefront of the team’s hopes.

Brink confirmed during practice on Monday that she plans to play against the Las Vegas Aces, marking her first game action since recovering from an ACL tear sustained over a year ago.

Cameron Brink Shares Her Focus for Returning to the Sparks

Brink emphasized her intent to rely on her defensive strengths as she reintegrates with the Sparks, who have been performing well recently, winning seven of their last ten games. Last season, she was a defensive standout, ranking second among rookies with 2.3 blocks per game.

“I feel like my defense has always been something that I’ve leaned on so probably I would say defense,” Brink said on Monday. “But giving myself patience on offense, knowing that it will come eventually, but both will need some work for sure.” —Cameron Brink

Currently, the Sparks hold an 11-14 record, just one game behind the Washington Mystics, who occupy the eighth and final playoff spot with a 12-13 standing.

Brink’s Impressive Background and What Her Return Means for the Team

Before joining the WNBA, Cameron Brink made a significant impact at Stanford University, where she played four seasons and contributed to a national championship during her rookie year. In her final collegiate season, she averaged 17.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 3.7 blocks per game while shooting over 51% from the field.

During her abbreviated rookie season with the Sparks, Brink averaged 7.5 points and 5.3 rebounds across 15 games despite her knee injury. Her return comes at a crucial time, as the LA Sparks are on an active five-game winning streak—the longest in the WNBA right now.

“My LA Sparks have won five games in a row and now they’ll have help from star player Cameron Brink! She will make her sophomore season debut tonight after suffering a season ending injury last year,” Johnson tweeted. —Magic Johnson

Anticipation Builds for Brink’s Second Season Impact

Cameron Brink’s comeback is highly anticipated as the Sparks aim to extend their current winning streak and solidify their playoff chances. Her defensive prowess and experience from college and the WNBA promises to strengthen the team’s lineup significantly. With the Sparks sitting just outside the playoff bracket, Brink’s return could be the key to pushing them back into contention as the season progresses.