Layshia Clarendon Embraces her Sparks Family: A Q&A with the Orange County Register

Los Angeles Sparks’ guard, Layshia Clarendon, passed the ball during the first half against the Chicago Sky on June 9, 2023, at Crypto.com Arena. The Sparks have been performing better with Clarendon in the starting lineup, boasting a 6-4 record with her as a starter, and falling to a 3-11 record in her absence. Clarendon, a San Bernardino native, has returned to Southern California after ten years of playing pro basketball, bringing with her a wealth of experience from playing for six of the 12 WNBA teams. Despite her journey to get back to Los Angeles, where she now plays as a starting small forward, Clarendon continues to demonstrate her impressive handling skills, averaging 7.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. Furthermore, she has also taken on the role of playing out of position in her new challenge and has maintained a shooting average of 35.2% from 3-point range and playing a near-career high 27.3 minutes per game.

The Sparks’ head coach, Curt Miller, acknowledged Clarendon’s contribution, emphasizing her toughness and versatility, stating, “Her versatility has helped us. The other night against Indiana, we were able to move Jordin off the ball and get a little bit of rest and put Layshia at the point guard. Her versatility to guard and play wing, but also get the point guard position and move Jordin around, that versatility is so important for us.”

Clarendon, who was sidelined for four to six weeks with a partial tear of the right plantar fascia, returned to action within four weeks, showcasing resilience and dedication. Her presence provides a sense of comfortability for the Sparks, as she has found a home with the team, being close to her family and thriving in Los Angeles.

Looking ahead, the Sparks will host the New York Liberty at Crypto.com Arena on Sunday, with the focus on playing well in front of a national audience. The significant motivation for the teams to perform at their best will feature an exciting matchup between the five-time All-Star, Breanna Stewart, and the former MVP, Jonquel Jones. The focus for the team in the upcoming game will be on their performance against New York’s defense and their defensive approach.

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Rachel Adams

Rachel Adams is your WNBA insider, delivering comprehensive coverage of women’s basketball. With a commitment to highlighting the talent and achievements of WNBA players, she provides game analysis, player profiles, and inspiring stories from the league.