Cameron Brink Returns to WNBA 13 Months After ACL Injury
Cameron Brink is officially back in action. More than a year after a devastating ACL tear during her rookie season, the Los Angeles Sparks forward made her much-anticipated return to the court on July 29, stepping back into competition against the Las Vegas Aces at Crypto.com Arena.
The 23-year-old was seen warming up in all-black athletic wear and purple sneakers, dribbling confidently before tip-off. Her first moments back in a WNBA game were filled with intensity and focus—she opened her stat line with a rebound and an assist to teammate Rickea Jackson, later breaking her scoring drought with a clean three-pointer that ignited cheers from the crowd.
A Comeback 13 Months in the Making
Brink’s return comes 13 months after tearing her ACL in June 2024 during a matchup against the Connecticut Sun. The injury not only ended her promising rookie season, but also forced her to withdraw from the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she was expected to be a standout in the USA’s 3×3 basketball squad.
In a pre-game interview with the Long Beach Press Telegram on July 28, Cameron opened up about the emotional journey back to the game she loves.
“It means the world,” she said. “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.”
Leaning on Defense and Patience
While Brink’s offensive rhythm is still coming back, she said she plans to rely heavily on the defensive instincts that defined her college and early WNBA days.
“My defense has always been something I’ve leaned on,” she shared. “Just giving myself patience on offense, knowing that it’ll come eventually. But both will need some work.”
Patience, she admitted, hasn’t always come naturally.
“I’m not a very patient person if you know me. This whole process has taught me a lot.”
Supported by Her “Village”
Brink was quick to give credit to the people in her corner.
“My teammates are super supportive, coaching me up. The coaches are super patient. I’m feeling great, just getting the reps that I need to feel comfortable.”
She also emphasized how crucial her support system has been over the past year.
“It’s all the people in my corner that are helping so much with all of this. If I didn’t have my village, I’d be nowhere.”
What’s Next for Brink and the Sparks?
As Brink works her way back into the Sparks’ rotation, her presence could be a major boost for the team’s defense and pace. Known for her shot-blocking ability, court vision, and energy, Brink’s return adds depth to a roster that’s been looking for an identity post-rebuild.
She’s still regaining full confidence in her offensive movements, but if her debut is any indication, she’s well on her way.
Final Word
Cameron Brink’s comeback is more than just a return to the court — it’s a testament to resilience, discipline, and community. After more than a year on the sidelines, she’s once again where she belongs: playing the game she loves, supported by teammates, coaches, and fans who never doubted her. The Sparks—and the WNBA—just got one of their brightest young stars back.
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