The 2024 WNBA draft lottery has officially concluded, and with it, the Los Angeles Sparks’ hope for a top pick was dashed. Despite having one of the best chances at securing the coveted No. 1 overall pick, the Sparks’ bad luck took center stage as the Dallas Wings snagged the top spot. With this result, the future of Paige Bueckers—one of the most highly anticipated players in the draft—has become intertwined with the Wings, leaving the Sparks to reconsider their future prospects under a new light.
What Went Wrong for the LA Sparks in the Draft Lottery?
The Sparks entered the 2024 WNBA draft lottery with a 44.2% chance of landing the top pick, the best odds among all teams. However, the Dallas Wings, despite having slightly fewer odds at 45.4%, emerged victorious. The Wings’ advantage came from a strategic trade with the Chicago Sky that merged their lottery odds with those of the Sky.
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Despite the disappointment, the Sparks still secured the No. 2 pick, leaving them with a significant opportunity to choose a talented player. However, their chances of drafting Paige Bueckers, the projected No. 1 overall pick, are now slim. With Bueckers likely headed to the Wings, the Sparks must now focus on building their future with a new vision.
THE DALLAS WINGS WILL HAVE THE NO. 1 PICK IN THE 2025 WNBA DRAFT‼️
Paige Bueckers is the projected No. 1 overall pick in ESPN’s latest mock draft. pic.twitter.com/GIxvecs3ZX
— ESPN (@espn) November 17, 2024
How Did the Dallas Wings Land Paige Bueckers?
The Dallas Wings’ victory in the lottery means they will likely add Paige Bueckers to their roster. Bueckers, a standout player from UConn, has long been regarded as one of the most promising talents in women’s basketball. Her skills, leadership, and potential make her a game-changer for whichever team selects her.
The acquisition of Bueckers by the Wings could completely reshape the team’s future. As one of the most anticipated players of the draft, her addition gives the Wings a significant advantage, and they could quickly rise as a top contender in the WNBA.
How Does Curt Miller Factor into Paige Bueckers’ Future?
The situation takes on an even more intriguing turn when you factor in Curt Miller, the former Los Angeles Sparks head coach, who now serves as the general manager for the Dallas Wings. Miller’s firing from the Sparks after a two-season tenure in which the team struggled means he’s now in a position to build the team he wants.
Miller has long been a fan of Bueckers, and his role with the Wings could give him the opportunity to grab her for the team. In fact, Miller’s excitement was evident in his reaction to the lottery results. He shared his enthusiasm on X (formerly Twitter) with a simple “Let’s Go!” along with a GIF reading “How do you like them apples?” It’s clear that Miller is eager to get to work on integrating Bueckers into the Wings’ future game plans.
What Was Curt Miller’s Legacy with the Los Angeles Sparks?
Curt Miller’s time with the Los Angeles Sparks was marked by both promise and disappointment. In his first season as head coach in 2023, Miller managed to bring the Sparks to the edge of a playoff berth, finishing with a 17-23 record. However, the following season proved disastrous for the team, and they ended with an 8-32 record—the worst performance in franchise history.
As a result, Miller was fired after two seasons with the team. Despite his dedication and commitment to the Sparks, injuries and inconsistent play kept the team from finding a winning rhythm. After his departure, the Sparks expressed their gratitude for his efforts, with Eric Holoman, the Sparks’ governing and managing partner, stating, “We thank Coach Miller for his passion and commitment to the Sparks organization.”
What’s Next for the Los Angeles Sparks?
The Sparks now face the challenge of rebuilding. With a new draft pick and the potential for significant changes, the franchise must make key decisions in the offseason. Although they missed out on the opportunity to draft Paige Bueckers, they still hold the No. 2 pick, which could lead to an important player joining the team. As they move forward, the Sparks will have to reflect on missed opportunities and decide how best to rebuild under new leadership.
Meanwhile, Curt Miller’s role with the Dallas Wings could lead to a rapid turnaround for that franchise. His deep understanding of the Sparks’ needs and his connection to Bueckers put the Wings in a prime position to become a formidable force in the WNBA.
FAQ: Common Questions About the LA Sparks, Paige Bueckers, and Curt Miller
Q: Why did the LA Sparks miss out on the No. 1 pick in the 2024 WNBA draft?
A: The Sparks had the best chance to secure the top pick but were outdone by the Dallas Wings, who gained a slight advantage through a trade with the Chicago Sky.
Q: How will Paige Bueckers impact the Dallas Wings?
A: Bueckers is considered one of the most talented players in the 2024 draft. Her addition will strengthen the Wings, potentially making them a championship contender in the coming seasons.
Q: Why was Curt Miller fired from the LA Sparks?
A: Miller was fired after two seasons with the Sparks, during which the team posted a disappointing 25-55 record. Injuries and inconsistent performance contributed to the team’s struggles.
Q: What will the LA Sparks do next?
A: The Sparks will look to rebuild, focusing on the second pick in the 2024 WNBA draft and key decisions in the offseason to improve the roster.
Q: How does Curt Miller’s experience benefit the Dallas Wings?
A: Miller’s experience as a former Sparks coach and his knowledge of the WNBA landscape gives the Wings a unique advantage in shaping their future, particularly with the potential addition of Paige Bueckers.
