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.

Los Angeles Sparks head coach Derek Fisher stands in front of the scorer's table, looking out towards the court with his arms crossed

LA Sparks part ways with Derek Fisher

June 9, 2022

After getting off to a slow start, the Sparks decided to move on from head coach and general manager Derek Fisher

Brittney Sykes has the ball at the top of her dribble, while walking up the court

How Chennedy Carter and Brittney Sykes mesh at point guard for the Sparks

June 3, 2022

Los Angeles is getting a boost from some unexpected playmaking sources

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

2022 WNBA season preview: Los Angeles Sparks

May 3, 2022

With a reloaded roster, the Sparks head into the 2022 season with a lot of reasons for optimism

‘They’re here with purpose’: Sparks training camp gets underway

April 19, 2022

No matter what, talented players will be left off this roster

‘We like the versatility’: Sparks add Rae Burrell on busy draft night

April 13, 2022

While facing an uphill battle, the Sparks four draftees will compete for a coveted roster spot

A headshot of Lexie Brown

Sparks add Lexie Brown in sign and trade

April 1, 2022

Brown, who has been a capable bench scorer and defender, will compete in camp for a roster spot.

UCLA heads to WNIT semifinals amid some bumps in the road

March 31, 2022

The Bruins have shed light on some equity issues as they continue their WNIT run

Ilmar'I Thomas. (UCLA Athletics)

How playing in the WNIT can help UCLA build its present and future

March 19, 2022

The Bruins endured a tough year filled with injuries but are looking to make a postseason run

Amy Atwell

Amy Atwell powers Hawaii to tournament appearance

March 16, 2022

The Rainbow Wahine are back in the NCAA Tournament

Liz Cambage. (Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE)

Reloaded Sparks, with Carter and Cambage, ready to hit the court

February 24, 2022

With new offseason acquisitions, the Los Angeles Sparks are hoping to return to championship glory.