WNBA free agency grades: Nneka Ogwumike to the Sparks gets an A

Another big-ticket free agent is off the board, as Chiney Ogwumike got to break the news that her sister will be heading back to the Los Angeles Sparks. Nneka Ogwumike, a 14-year WNBA veteran, left the Sparks two seasons ago to sign with the Seattle Storm.

On Thursday night, she announced via social media that she would not be returning to the Storm, and Friday morning, the news came out that she intends to return to the Sparks.

Shortly after this story published, the Sparks (+1500) were moved into having the sixth-best WNBA title odds on FanDuel, and we’ll see if more moves like this can further improve their chances.

After 12 seasons and one championship, Ogwumike’s departure was part of a changeover for the Sparks as they fell out of the playoff picture. They’ve spent the past few seasons rebuilding, and last season were able to bring Kelsey Plum in from the Las Vegas Aces. Bringing a player like Nneka back brings more veteran presence into the pair with Plum, while boosting their young frontcourt star, Cameron Brink.

This move also means both Azura Stevens and Dearica Hamby might be on the move as well, and if a rumored trade to send Rickea Jackson to the Chicago Sky for Ariel Atkins goes through over the weekend, the Sparks’ lineup will look much different this season.

Overall, the move is great by the Sparks — Ogwumike is still one of the best frontcourt presences in the WNBA. In 2025, she averaged 18.3 points and 7.0 rebounds for a playoff Storm team. She’s a 10x All-Star, and just played a huge part in getting the CBA negotiations done. Pairing her with Plum and Brink will elevate the team, and hopefully attract more free agents to the Sparks as well.

I’m not sure if this is a championship-contending roster yet, but the Sparks have set themselves up well for the season ahead.