It didn’t take long for the Los Angeles Sparks to finalize their roster following Chiney Ogwumike and Kristi Toliver’s decision to opt out of the 2020 WNBA season. The franchise signed Reshanda Gray over the weekend and announced Sunday morning the addition of rookie Te’a Cooper to round out their roster of 12.
Welcome to the squad @TeaCooper2!????????
Full Release » https://t.co/51j0H86ylr#GoSparks #LeadTheCharge pic.twitter.com/6B6BT8uT6c
— Los Angeles Sparks (@LA_Sparks) June 28, 2020
Cooper was originally drafted as the No. 18 pick of the WNBA draft by the Phoenix Mercury but was waived at the end of May. The five-foot-eight point guard averaged 13.6 points, 4.3 assists and shot over 40-percent from the three point line her senior season at Baylor. She played for three top collegiate programs during her career including Tennessee and South Carolina.
“Te’a Cooper is an exciting young player with experience playing for premier programs at the collegiate level,” said Los Angeles Sparks Managing Partner Eric Holoman per release. “We look forward to adding a talented rookie to our team and thank her for staying ready for an opportunity in such unprecedented circumstances.”
The nationally recognized rookie point guard will have the opportunity to fill the role of Toliver this season for the Sparks. Cooper can score it, create and has all the intangibles to be a successful pro.
“I would like to thank God, my family and the Los Angles Sparks organization for believing in me,” said Cooper in a statement. “I am beyond grateful for this opportunity and I am excited and eager to contribute on and off the court in any way possible. I am looking forward to being with my new coaches, teammates, the organization, the fans and the community.”
The Los Angeles Sparks roster is now set for the 2020 season. The 22-game regular season is set to tip off at the end of July and will be held at IMG Academy in Florida.
