The Los Angeles Sparks have bolstered their lineup with the signing of seasoned center Mercedes Russell, a two-time WNBA champion, the team announced on Wednesday. Russell brings a wealth of experience and winning pedigree to the Sparks, having spent the majority of her seven-year WNBA career with the Seattle Storm.
Across 189 regular-season games, with 79 starts, Mercedes Russell has been a consistent force in the league. Her contributions were instrumental in securing two WNBA championships for the Seattle Storm. Throughout her WNBA journey, the 6-foot-6 center has posted averages of 4.9 points and 4.0 rebounds per game, showcasing her efficiency with a 52.4% field goal percentage and 64.9% from the free-throw line. In playoff competition, Mercedes Russell elevates her game, averaging 6.2 points and 5.6 rebounds in 12 appearances (four starts), while boasting impressive shooting splits of 62.7% from the field and a perfect 100.0% on free throws.
“I am beyond excited to be joining the Sparks family and embracing this next chapter of my life with open arms and excitement,” Mercedes Russell stated. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring my experience to an organization with such deep history and great fans. Let’s go Sparks!” Her enthusiasm reflects the positive energy she is expected to bring to the Los Angeles Sparks.
Drafted 22nd overall in the second round of the 2018 WNBA draft by the New York Liberty after a successful college career at the University of Tennessee, Mercedes Russell has recorded four career double-doubles. Her trophy cabinet also includes the inaugural WNBA Commissioner’s Cup title, won with the Storm in 2021. Furthermore, demonstrating her international caliber, Mercedes Russell clinched a WNBL Championship in 2024 while playing in Australia, earning the prestigious WNBL Grand Final Most Valuable Player award after leading the Southside Flyers to victory.
Sparks General Manager Raegan Pebley expressed her excitement about the acquisition: “We’re thrilled to welcome Mercedes to our group. Her championship experience, ability to impact the paint on both ends of the floor and athleticism elevate us as a group.” This highlights the multifaceted skillset Mercedes Russell brings to the Sparks, enhancing their capabilities on both offense and defense.
Last season, over 37 games (six starts), Mercedes Russell contributed 3.9 points and 3.0 rebounds per game, maintaining a 51.7% shooting percentage. Continuing to play year-round, she has recently been competing in China, averaging 6.7 points and 4.3 rebounds across 10 games for Shanxi this offseason.
Head Coach Lynne Roberts echoed the sentiment, emphasizing Mercedes Russell’s veteran presence: “Mercedes is a champion and knows what it takes to win. Her veteran leadership and defensive presence will be invaluable to the Sparks.” The Sparks are clearly banking on Mercedes Russell’s experience and defensive prowess to make a significant impact in the upcoming WNBA season.
