Sparks Draft Sarah Ashlee Barker 9th Overall

The Los Angeles Sparks selected Alabama's Sarah Ashlee Barker as the ninth overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, sparking widespread excitement across social media. Barker, a standout guard, is the third Crimson Tide player to be taken in the first round of the WNBA Draft, following notable predecessors Jasmine Walker and Tausha Mills. She finished her college career at Alabama with impressive statistics, including an average of 18.2 points per game and a record-setting 45-point game in the NCAA tournament. Alongside Barker, the Sparks also drafted Sania Feagin and Liatu King, enhancing their roster with versatile talent. Barker's selection is seen as a pivotal step in the Sparks' quest for a new identity, especially after obtaining star point guard Kelsey Plum in a trade, with fans and analysts optimistic about her potential impact.