Even with only four games left and playoff hopes completely gone, Sparks fans still have two absolute must-see moments coming up to close out the season. Forget the standings for a second, because the focus shifts to celebrating some serious history, cementing two legacies that mean everything to the franchise. This isn’t about what could have been on the court this year; it is about what these legends built for the future.
Lisa Leslie: Forever A Trailblazer
On Sunday, September 20, when the Sparks host the Portland Fire, we are going to witness something truly special: the unveiling of Lisa Leslie’s statue. Seriously, this is massive. She is the first player in franchise history to get this honor, and it is about time! Her statue will stand proudly at Star Plaza, right alongside legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, and Jerry West. Think about that for a second. This isn’t just a win for Leslie; it is a monumental moment that breaks another barrier. It shows every Sparks player, every WNBA athlete, and every woman playing in Los Angeles what is truly possible. Leslie is already a Hall of Famer, a two-time WNBA champion, and her jersey hangs in the rafters. Now, her statue will greet fans as they walk into the iconic stadium. From Compton, through Morningside High, and on to USC, Leslie has been making an impact from the very beginning.
Nneka Ogwumike’s Epic Farewell
Then there is Nneka Ogwumike, who announced her retirement back in August, giving everyone a chance to give her flowers before she calls it a career. Her return to the Sparks might not have been the homecoming everyone envisioned in terms of team success, but make no mistake: she played incredibly well. Nneka averaged 17.2 points and 8.9 rebounds per game, and she gave fans the best moment of the season. Remember that game-winner against the New York Liberty in the Court Origins game? The WNBA’s 30th anniversary season game? She hit that shot, and the Sparks won 98-97 in a thriller! And who was there to celebrate that iconic moment with her? Lisa Leslie, of course. Nneka’s final game is set for September 24 against the Golden State Valkyries, and you know it is going to be a must-see event. Expect some heartfelt speeches, a touching tribute, and a who’s who of basketball royalty in attendance.
So, while this 2026 season for the Sparks might not be ending the way fans wanted, these two moments guarantee it will end in celebration. It is a chance to honor greatness, celebrate history, and look forward to the future that these legends helped build.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Swish Appeal.
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