Mercedes Russell was a key element for the Seattle Storm for seven years. A two-time champion who was an integral part of the organization, Russell was third on the Storm’s list as the Most Improved Player in 2019. Russell averaged 5 points per game in a Storm uniform. However, injuries derailed her competitiveness in the 2022 season. She played 187 games and started 79 in Seattle. She averaged 18 minutes per game and 4.1 rebounds per game.
Mercedes Russell’s Impact
Russell and Ezi Magbegor were the perfect post-player duo and, at times, were unstoppable. With Ezi averaging 11.7 points per game last year, they balanced each other well. The same case applies in LA; having Azurá Stevens by her side will make the Sparks a more paint-dominant team. Something the Sparks have lacked since Nneka Ogwumike and Candace Parker left the organization.
Stevens participated in the inaugural season of Unrivaled Basketball, and her team, the Rose, won it all. Stevens’ 19 points in the championship game helped the Rose win. Stevens had a great season with Unrivaled, and her momentum will carry on to the Sparks this season. Russell and Stevens, being the forward-centers on the team, will elevate the Sparks on both ends of the floor this season.
The Sparks’ preseason opening game is on Tuesday, May 6, at 10:00 p.m. ET, against the Golden State Valkyries.
