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.

How Layshia Clarendon’s gritty, tough game fits the Sparks

August 3, 2023

‘That’s my style, just to go after people and attack them’

Washington Mystics off-ball guard Evina Westbrook jogs

What Evina Westbrook brings the Los Angeles Sparks

August 1, 2023

Sparks add Westbrook on hardship contract amid key absences

Nneka Ogwumike, Los Angeles Sparks

Nneka Ogwumike is the steadying influence the Sparks need

July 19, 2023

With the Sparks being tested with adversity, they’ve leaned on their leader

Five Los Angeles Sparks players wrap their arms around each other's waists as they huddle.

Los Angeles Sparks search for right combinations amid key absences

July 8, 2023

Sparks are trying to hang in there until they get healthy — but they may be down another player on Sunday

Los Angeles Sparks big Nneka Ogwumike looks out at the court from the baseline behind the basket, as a ref stands next to her

Sparks’ ‘big’ lineup may be key moving forward

June 28, 2023

‘It’s going to be a part of our identity’

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