Sparks trade Rickea Jackson to Sky for Ariel Atkins in WNBA free agency splash
The Los Angeles Sparks traded Rickea Jackson to the Chicago Sky for Ariel Atkins in a WNBA free agency player swap.
Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson and Chicago Sky guard Ariel Atkins are on the move. On Sunday, the Sparks traded Jackson to the Chicago Sky in exchange for Atkins, a splash trade during this year's WNBA free agency . No draft picks were included as part of the deal.
“It’s thrilling to acquire one of the great young talents in this league in Jackson,” said Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca in a statement about his new forward. “Rickea is only going to continue to ascend, and the organization is excited to witness that growth firsthand. ” “Ariel is a proven winner and one of the most respected two-way guards in this league,” Sparks general manager Raegan Pebley said about acquiring Atkins.
“She’s a champion, an elite defender and someone who understands what it takes to win in big moments. Her professionalism, competitiveness and versatility make her a perfect fit for our franchise and a key piece in our pursuit of a championship. ” Jackson, who was the No.
4 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, spent the last two seasons in Los Angeles, where she averaged 14 points, 3. 6 rebounds on 43. 9% shooting.