Posts by David Mendez-Yapkowitz

David has been with The Next team since the High Post Hoops days when he joined the staff in 2018. He is based in Los Angeles and covers the LA Sparks, Pac-12 Conference, Big West Conference and some high school as well.

Dearica Hamby

Dearica Hamby working her way back

June 21, 2023

The veteran forward is slowly getting back to her former level and finding her role in a new system

Los Angeles Sparks guards Jordin Canada (21) and Lexie Brown (4) stand next to each other during a game against the Connecticut Sun at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., on May 14, 2022. (Photo credit: Chris Poss)

‘Unselfishness’ is key for Los Angeles Sparks early on

June 6, 2023

The difference between this season and last season has been noticeable.

Karlie Samuelson, Los Angeles Sparks

Karlie Samuelson just wants an opportunity

May 23, 2023

The veteran sharpshooter is confident she belongs in the WNBA

Los Angeles Sparks guards Jordin Canada (21) and Lexie Brown (4) stand next to each other during a game against the Connecticut Sun at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., on May 14, 2022. (Photo credit: Chris Poss)

2023 WNBA season preview: Los Angeles Sparks

May 17, 2023

Coach Curt Miller looks to right the ship in return to the Sparks sideline

Los Angeles Sparks forward Nneka Ogwumike dribbles with her left hand as a Connecticut Sun defender stands about an arm's length away.

‘Building for ourselves’: New vision underway in Los Angeles Sparks training camp

May 6, 2023

New vision, same post depth as ever for new Sparks head coach Curt Miller

Zia Cooke rises up over a Tennessee player at the SEC Tournament Championship game on March 5. Cooke was selected by the Los Angeles Sparks in the 2023 WNBA Draft. (Photo credit: SEC)

Los Angeles Sparks rookies ready to get to work

April 17, 2023

Zia Cooke, Monika Czinano see pathway to playing time

Connecticut Sun head coach Curt Miller stands in front of the scorer's table, holding a clipboard and smiling while looking out at the court. He is wearing the Sun's Pride shirt.

Los Angeles Sparks balance present and future with WNBA draft selections

April 11, 2023

Cooke and Czinano go from Final Four opponents to Sparks teammates

Christeen Iwuala, UCLA Bruins

UCLA’s twin towers crucial for tournament run

March 23, 2023

Not many teams in the country can contend with the Bruins’ size led by freshmen centers

UCLA freshman Kiki Rice attempts a wide-open 3-pointer.

UCLA’s depth shines as Bruins kick off NCAA Tournament with a win

March 19, 2023

Can the Bruins’ unusually deep rotation be an advantage in March?

UCLA senior guard Camryn Brown (L) provides guidance to freshman guard Kiki Rice as UCLA head coach Cori Close looks on. (Photo Credit / UCLA Women's Basketball Twitter page)

Camryn Brown is the glue that holds UCLA together

March 17, 2023

The senior wing does all the little things that help lead to wins