LOS ANGELES — The Sparks hired Lynne Roberts to become the team’s next head coach on Tuesday.
Roberts will leave her position as the University of Utah head coach, which she held for nine full seasons and after leading the Utes to a 3-1 record this season.
Roberts, 49, will replace Curt Miller, who mutually parted ways with the team Sept. 24. She inherits a Sparks team coming off its franchise-worst season in which they had an 8-32 record and were given the second-overall pick in the 2025 WNBA draft.
“I am honored to be named the next head coach of the Los Angeles Sparks,” Roberts said in a statement. “I want to thank our ownership group for this incredible opportunity. From conversations with Eric Holoman and Reagan Pebley, it is evident that we share a like-minded commitment toward creating a winning culture and team. The Sparks have a talented roster with tremendous upside, and we will compete tirelessly for WNBA championships. I believe Los Angeles should be the premier market in the WNBA, and I’m eager to partner with our players and front office to make this happen.”
Related Articles
Sparks secure No. 2 pick in WNBA Draft Lottery, eyes set on top prospects
WNBA players opt out of CBA, face potential work stoppage
Here are 5 candidates for the Sparks’ coaching vacancy
Sparks, after franchise-worst season, have nowhere to go but up
Curt Miller out as Sparks head coach after 2 seasons
Roberts led the Utes to the NCAA Tournament in each of the past three seasons. Over that period, the Utes displayed historic efficiency, ranking No. 1 in the nation in field-goal attempts from beyond the 3-point line and at the rim, second in overall offensive rating, and third in effective field-goal percentage.
Roberts was named Pac-12 Coach of the Year in 2023 after the Utes went 15-3 in the conference as the regular-season co-champions. They finished 27-5 overall, advancing to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.
Last season, Utah went 23-11 and 11-7 in its final year in the Pac-12.
Before coaching at Utah, Roberts spent nine seasons at Pacific University. She also played collegiately at Seattle Pacific University, where she set a school record by making 82 3-pointers in a season.