Los Angeles Sparks acquire Riquna Williams and sixth pick in 2016 WNBA Draft from Dallas Wings in exchange for Erin Phillips
The Los Angeles Sparks have acquired WNBA All-Star guard Riquna Williams and the sixth pick in the 2016 WNBA Draft from the Dallas Wings in exchange for guard Erin Phillips, the fifth pick in the 2016 WNBA Draft and its 2017 first round selection, executive vice president and general manager Penny Toler announced today.
“Riquna is a veteran guard who will strengthen our backcourt and defensive presence while adding a powerful scoring punch to our offense,” said Toler. “She will be able to come in and make an immediate impact.
The 5-7 guard owns career averages of 13.0 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.4 steals in 100 games played with the Tulsa Shock (now the Dallas Wings). The four-year veteran had her best season to date last year, averaging career-highs in rebounds (3.4 rpg), assists (2.6 apg) and minutes (28.0 mpg) and tying her career-high in points, ranking sixth among league scoring leaders with 15.6 ppg in 29 games (20 starts).
“I’m ecstatic to join the Los Angeles Sparks family,” said Williams. “From the history of the organization to the passionate and loyal fan base, I am honored and excited to be part of the team. I want to thank both Penny Toler and Brian Agler for giving me this amazing opportunity. I look forward to playing at Staples Center and continuing my career in the city of Los Angeles.”
Phillips, who is entering her ninth year in the league, owns career averages of 6.6 points per game, 2.4 rebounds per game and 2.2 assist per game. She is a two-time WNBA Champion and an Olympian, representing her native Australia. She is currently in the mix to make the roster for Australia’s entry in the 2016 Rio Games.
“We thank Riquna for her contributions while being very excited to add Erin Phillips to the Dallas Wings organization,” said David Swatzell, president and CEO of the franchise. “This deal provides us with a veteran guard who can play both the one and two positions. Erin is an experienced leader with a championship pedigree. Her contributions on and off the court will help us as we compete for a WNBA title. Additionally, we have enhanced our draft position by moving up a spot this year and adding a first round selection next year.”
