Rickea Jackson exits Sparks home opener after collision with Lynx player

At the end of the third quarter, Rickea Jackson took a shot to the face and never returned for the Sparks in their contest against the Lynx.

The last thing the Sparks need is more injuries, but unfortunately, they have another one they have to deal with.

At the end of the third quarter, Rickea Jackson collided with Alanna Smith while chasing a loose ball and fell to the ground.

She stayed down for an extended period of time while the Sparks medical team slowly got her back up. Jackson was able to walk to the bench on her own but never returned for the rest of the contest.

While the Sparks lost against the Lynx by double figures, losing Jackson for an extended period of time would be a much bigger blow to Los Angeles.

They are already playing without Cameron Brink, who is still recovering from her ACL tear. Brink is aiming to return in June.

In the Sparks’ first game, Rae Burrell injured her right leg and she is out for six to eight weeks. Julie Allemand has also been out during these first two games, recovering from a left knee injury.

Allemand is the only Spark from this trio with optimism for a quick return. Coach Lynne Roberts said pregame that Allemand would be back “soon.”

Jackson was fully available during her rookie campaign. She played every game and had an impactful season, making the WNBA All-Rookie Team.

It would be brutal for the Sparks to have potentially four players ruled out entering their third game of the season. Los Angeles is already playing with a slim roster, as Roberts only played seven players against Minnesota.

Hopefully, Jackson didn’t suffer a serious injury and can be available to play on Wednesday when the Sparks play the Mercury in Phoenix.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.