LOS ANGELES — The L.A. Sparks lit up the court in their season opener, delivering an exciting performance that didn’t just thrill fans but also caught the attention of one of basketball’s biggest stars—Kevin Durant.
The Phoenix Suns forward and two-time NBA champion took to social media shortly after the Sparks’ commanding win, praising the team for their energy, chemistry, and execution. “That was fun to watch,” Durant posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Sparks came out locked in. Love to see the women hooping like that.”
The Sparks opened their 2025 WNBA campaign with a 94-81 victory over the Seattle Storm in front of a sold-out Crypto.com Arena crowd. Led by star forward Cameron Brink and veteran guard Lexie Brown, the team set an early tone that they intend to be a serious playoff contender this year. Brink, the highly touted rookie from Stanford, lived up to the hype in her professional debut with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Her strong presence in the paint and versatility on both ends of the floor sparked comparisons to some of the league’s all-time greats.
“She’s a problem,” Durant added in a follow-up post. “Cameron Brink already looks like she belongs. Sparks are gonna be fun this season.”
Brink wasn’t the only standout. Lexie Brown poured in 22 points, shooting a scorching 5-for-7 from beyond the arc. Her leadership on the court and confidence in directing the offense gave the Sparks a steady rhythm throughout the game. Dearica Hamby contributed a double-double, finishing with 14 points and 11 rebounds, while the Sparks’ bench added crucial depth, contributing 28 points.
The Sparks’ new-look roster, featuring a blend of youth and experience under new head coach Curt Miller, appeared well-balanced and well-prepared. Miller, who previously led the Connecticut Sun to multiple playoff runs, emphasized defensive discipline and fast-paced offense in training camp—elements that were clearly on display in the opener.
“The players really bought in,” Miller said postgame. “They’ve worked hard in the offseason and trusted the process. Tonight was just the beginning, but it shows what we’re capable of when we play as one.”
Durant’s praise comes as part of a growing wave of NBA stars showing support for the WNBA and women’s basketball. Over the last few years, figures like LeBron James, Chris Paul, and Steph Curry have regularly attended games, shouted out performances, and even invested in the league’s teams. Durant has long been vocal about his appreciation for the women’s game, often spotlighting WNBA talent and urging broader support from fans and the basketball community.
“I’ve always respected how hard they work and how skilled they are,” Durant said in a 2023 interview. “Women’s basketball is elite basketball. It deserves every bit of the spotlight.”
That spotlight is clearly growing. The Sparks’ opener drew strong television ratings and trended across social media platforms, boosted not only by their on-court performance but also by Durant’s endorsement. His posts generated thousands of shares, likes, and comments within hours, further amplifying the team’s momentum.
Sparks forward Dearica Hamby expressed her appreciation for Durant’s support. “It means a lot to have someone like KD showing love,” she said. “We’re here grinding just like they are, and when people recognize that, especially someone of his caliber, it pushes the game forward.”
Looking ahead, the Sparks face a tough early-season schedule, including matchups against the defending champion Las Vegas Aces and rising contenders like the New York Liberty. But after such a dominant opening night and with growing buzz around their roster, optimism is running high in Los Angeles.
Brink, who has already become a fan favorite, is keeping a level head. “It’s just one game,” she said. “We’re happy, but we know there’s a lot of work ahead. Still, it feels great to start this way, and having people like Kevin Durant watching and supporting us is just incredible.”
If the Sparks continue to play the way they did in their opener, Durant likely won’t be the last NBA star tuning in. With a deep, talented roster and the eyes of the basketball world watching, L.A. may just be poised for a return to WNBA prominence—and they’re doing it with flair, unity, and a spark that’s impossible to ignore.
