Too sad to say goodbye: Lady vols are in deep pain for the departure of their star player…..

The Los Angeles Sparks select Rickea Jackson, a forward from the Lady Vols.

The Lady Vols basketball program celebrates another player making it to the WNBA as Rickea Jackson gets drafted by the Los Angeles Sparks as the fourth overall pick. Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, Jackson now has the chance to kick off her professional basketball journey out west.

Caitlin Clark from Iowa was expected to go first overall to the Indiana Fever, followed by Cameron Brink from Stanford taken by the Sparks at number two, and Kamilla Cardoso from South Carolina chosen by the Chicago Sky. This paved the way for the Sparks to welcome another Lady Vol to their team.

With a focus on adding size to their lineup, the Sparks selected both Brink and Jackson as rookies. Despite not towering as a massive post player at 6’2″, Jackson brings grit, adaptability, and determination to Los Angeles.

Throughout her senior season, Jackson showcased her leadership and prowess on both offense and defense, averaging 20.2 points and 8.2 rebounds. Her consistent performance over the last three seasons at Rocky Top proves her reliability.

Brink’s versatility combined with Jackson’s presence offers the Sparks a formidable lineup, potentially propelling them back into the WNBA playoffs after a four-year hiatus.

Jackson, a standout player ready to make an immediate impact, complements the Sparks’ roster alongside stars like Nneka Ogwumike, Jordin Canada, and Layshia Clarendon, making them an exciting team to follow.

With a preseason beginning on May 5th and the regular season kicking off on May 15th against the Atlanta Dream, Jackson will have time to gel with her new teammates before hitting the court.