Los Angeles Sparks players Rae Burrell and Dearica Hamby are taking advantage of their time off the court to strengthen their partnership as they participate together in the Unrivaled league. This effort is reflected in their recent performance, where they combined forces to secure all the points for Team Vinyl in the fourth quarter, leading to a victory against Team Mist. Burrell was especially impressive, scoring the last nine points, including the game-winning shot assisted by Hamby.
“I’m thrilled to be playing alongside her,” Burrell shared, expressing admiration for Hamby as a supportive veteran teammate. The innovative 3-on-3 league, Unrivaled, offers them another opportunity to train together off the season. Having previously trained in Las Vegas, where they live quite close to each other, they now continue to strengthen their game.
In addition to on-court practice, Burrell values spending time with Hamby and her kids, Legend and Amaya, during the offseason. “That relationship has been beneficial for our teamwork in L.A.,” Burrell noted. The offseason also presented Burrell with a chance to remain stateside, a departure from past seasons when she played overseas in countries like Australia and Belgium, allowing her to spend the holidays with family.
“I focused on refining my skills and enjoying family time at home,” she reflected. Her efforts are bearing fruit, as she stands third in points per minute for her Unrivaled team, while Hamby leads Team Vinyl in scoring. “Rae is one of the Sparks’ budding talents, essential to our future,” Hamby remarked. “Her continued play in the offseason enhances her confidence and helps build vital chemistry for our team.”
Burrell aspires to bring the momentum from her Miami performance back to Los Angeles for the upcoming spring season. Anticipating her fourth year with the Sparks, Burrell, who started in seven games last season, is keen to elevate her game. “The offseason is pivotal for my development, and this league is a great platform to achieve that,” she commented.
Apart from Hamby and Burrell, Sparks players Azura Stevens and Rickea Jackson are also competing in the Miami-based league. Although Cameron Brink was included, she is recovering from an ACL injury. This group of four active players marks the highest representation from any WNBA team in the league. Residing in the same apartment complex with over 30 other league players allows these Sparks members to deepen their off-court relationships.
Newly appointed Sparks coach Lynne Roberts traveled to Miami to observe her players’ progress in person. The experience provided a unique opportunity to bond, with the team enjoying a brunch together. “It was wonderful to see them united and happy,” Roberts remarked. “There’s a strong focus on player development, which is truly inspiring to witness.”
