After a long and challenging 13-month recovery, Cameron Brink made a heartfelt return to the WNBA stage on Tuesday night, July 29, 2025, rejoining the Los Angeles Sparks in their home game against the Las Vegas Aces at Crypto.com Arena. The 23-year-old forward, who had been sidelined since tearing her left ACL in June 2024 during a game against the Connecticut Sun, stepped back onto the court to the cheers of over 20 friends, family members, and fans, marking a significant milestone in her young career.
Brink’s comeback came amid a Sparks squad riding a five-game winning streak, fresh off a nail-biting 101-99 victory over the New York Liberty. The Sparks, holding an 11-14 record before the game, were eager to maintain momentum against the 13-13 Aces, who themselves were coming off a dominant 106-80 win over the Dallas Wings, showcasing sharp shooting and disciplined play.
Entering the game with just 2:39 remaining in the first quarter, Brink wasted no time making her presence felt. Her first contribution was an aggressive offensive rebound, quickly followed by a crisp assist to teammate Rickea Jackson, who converted a jumper. Not stopping there, Brink drained a three-pointer, a moment that seemed to lift both her spirits and the crowd’s energy. NBA stars Russell Westbrook and DeMar DeRozan, along with comedian Leslie Jones, watched courtside, witnessing Brink’s triumphant return firsthand.
Reflecting on her return, Brink shared with the Long Beach Press Telegram just a day before the game, “It means the world. I’m just very excited, very humbled by this experience. It’s no easy thing to come back from, so I’m just really excited.” She acknowledged the patience required during her long rehabilitation, admitting, “I’m not a very patient person if you know me. This whole process has taught me a lot.”
Before her injury, Brink was making waves as the No. 2 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, averaging a solid 7.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. Her defensive prowess has always been a cornerstone of her game, and she expects that to continue as she regains her offensive rhythm. “My defense has always been something I’ve leaned on,” she explained. “Just giving myself patience on offense, knowing that it’ll come eventually. But both will need some work.”
On the night of her return, Brink logged 13 minutes, contributing one made field goal out of three attempts, two free throws, three rebounds, an assist, a steal, and a block, alongside one turnover. Her minutes are being carefully managed, with a goal to gradually increase to 20 to 25 minutes per game as she regains full fitness.
Los Angeles Sparks coach Lynne Roberts praised Brink’s composure and impact, saying, “She was more comfortable out there than I anticipated her to be just cause how long she’s been out.” Teammate Kelsey Plum echoed this sentiment, noting, “I told her after the game that’s very impressive to come in and make the impact that she did. I think she’s going to continue to just help us a ton, especially defensively. We looked just horrid tonight. She’s someone that’s going to get better game by game.”
Despite Brink’s spirited return, the Sparks fell 89-74 to the Las Vegas Aces, ending their winning streak. The Aces showcased their offensive firepower, shooting 48.6% from the field and draining 15 three-pointers, with Jackie Young leading the charge with 24 points and Jewell Loyd adding 20 off the bench. The Sparks struggled to keep pace, even with strong performances from Rickea Jackson, who had 24 points in their previous game, and Kelsey Plum, who contributed 20 points and eight assists.
Brink’s journey back to the court has been a story of resilience and determination. Her season-ending ACL injury in her rookie campaign not only sidelined her from the WNBA but also prevented her from competing in the 3x3 basketball tournament at the 2024 Paris Olympics, a significant disappointment for the young star. Yet, through months of rehabilitation and mental fortitude, she has emerged ready to reclaim her place in the league.
During the game, Brink’s teammates rallied around her, providing guidance and support on the court. “Credit to my teammates, they made me feel super comfortable. If I didn’t know a play, they got my back and were telling me where to go,” Brink said. When not on the floor, she was visibly engaged, cheering from the bench and encouraging her team.
Her return was not just a personal victory but a beacon of hope for the Sparks as they navigate the remainder of the season. With her defensive skills and growing offensive confidence, Brink is poised to be a key contributor moving forward. Her coach and teammates are optimistic about her continued progress and the impact she will have on the team’s dynamics.
As the Sparks regroup from their loss to the Aces, all eyes will be on Cameron Brink’s development and how quickly she can regain her pre-injury form. Her comeback is a reminder of the physical and emotional challenges athletes face and the perseverance required to overcome them.
In the world of professional sports, where injuries can derail promising careers, Brink’s return stands as a testament to dedication and the power of a strong support system. Surrounded by over 20 friends and family members during her comeback, she described the experience as “a great day, 10 out of 10,” a moment she said she “won’t ever forget.”
With the Sparks looking to rebound and build on their early-season success, Cameron Brink’s return adds a fresh spark to their roster. As she continues to find her rhythm and confidence on the court, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this young star’s journey unfolds in the months ahead.
