Lynne Roberts Joins Sparks as Head Coach

Lynne Roberts has been appointed as the head coach of the Los Angeles Sparks, leaving her position at the University of Utah where she had a successful tenure, including earning the 2023 Pac-12 Coach of the Year award. Roberts led Utah to three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and a share of the Pac-12 title, achieving a 165-116 record. Her move to the WNBA marks a significant coaching change during an active offseason, with multiple teams including the Sparks and Atlanta Dream recruiting new coaches from the college ranks. Under Roberts' leadership, her offensive strategy is highly regarded, aligning with the Sparks' goals of building a winning culture. The Sparks, who finished last season with a poor record, are looking to rebuild with a young core and the No. 2 pick in the upcoming draft. Gavin Petersen will succeed Roberts as head coach at Utah, continuing the program's momentum.