LA Sparks Explained: Traditions, Logo & History

Are the Sparks an original WNBA team?

Yes.

The Los Angeles Sparks were one of the eight original WNBA franchises that played the league's inaugural 1997 season. Penny Toler scored the first points in WNBA history that year. The Sparks have remained one of the league's flagship franchises ever since.

How many championships have the LA Sparks won?

The Sparks have won three WNBA championships: back-to-back titles in 2001 and 2002 behind three-time MVP Lisa Leslie, and a third in 2016 led by Finals MVP Candace Parker.

That makes them one of the most decorated franchises in league history.

Does Magic Johnson own the Sparks?

Magic Johnson is part of the Sparks' ownership group, which acquired the team in 2014 — a group that has also included Dodgers ownership figures.

Johnson, the Lakers legend, has been a visible co-owner and ambassador for the franchise, tying the Sparks to Los Angeles's broader basketball legacy.

LA Sparks Records, Titles & Milestones

How many WNBA championships have the LA Sparks won?

The LA Sparks have won 3 WNBA championships (2016, 2002, 2001).

Do the LA Sparks retire jersey numbers?

The Sparks have retired three numbers: Lisa Leslie's No. 9 (2010), Penny Toler's No. 11 (2006), and Candace Parker's No. 3 (June 29, 2025) — honoring the franchise's defining era of champions.

Ring of Honor (3 members)

The Greatest LA Sparks Players of All Time

Who is the greatest LA Sparks player of all time?

By the measure of championships, individual honors, and lasting impact, Lisa Leslie tops most all-time LA Sparks rankings. The full top 5 follows.

1. Lisa Leslie C \u00b7 1997–2009

   The face of the early WNBA — a three-time league MVP, back-to-back champion and Finals MVP (2001–02), and the first player to dunk in a WNBA game. Her No. 9 is retired.

2. Candace Parker F \u00b7 2008–2020

   Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same 2008 season, two-time MVP, 2016 champion and Finals MVP, and the franchise's all-time assists leader. Her No. 3 was retired in 2025.

3. Penny Toler G \u00b7 1997–1999

   Scored the first points in WNBA history and later served as the franchise's general manager. Her No. 11 is retired — a foundational figure for the Sparks.

4. Nneka Ogwumike F \u00b7 2012–2023

   The No. 1 pick in 2012, 2016 WNBA MVP, and the leader of the 2016 championship team. An eight-time All-Star and one of the most consistent forwards of her era.

5. Tina Thompson F \u00b7 2009–2011

   A Basketball Hall of Famer who finished her career in Los Angeles, the WNBA's all-time leading scorer at her retirement and one of the greatest forwards the league has seen.