The Los Angeles Sparks had high hopes when they picked Cameron Brink as the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 WNBA Draft. Brink, a standout during her four years at Stanford, was already seen as a promising talent in the league. Her impressive collegiate career was marked by numerous accolades, and she now adds another significant honor: representing Team USA in 3×3 basketball at the Paris Olympics. This selection came as a pleasant surprise to Brink, who admitted she wasn’t sure she would make the team.
In a recent media session, Brink expressed her astonishment and excitement about the selection. “It’s all been really sudden, I had no idea I’d make the team. Of course, I was aiming for it, but it’s definitely a huge surprise,” she said. “It’s the greatest honor to represent your country, especially at the Olympics. I’m incredibly excited to play with Hailey [Van Lith], Rhyne [Howard], and Cierra [Burdick]. They’re fantastic teammates, and I can’t wait to get to Paris.”
The Team USA 3×3 squad for the Olympics also includes Atlanta Dream star Rhyne Howard, TCU guard and WNBA prospect Hailey Van Lith, and former WNBA player Cierra Burdick. Brink had previously participated in 3×3 events during training camp, where she played alongside her current Sparks teammate, Dearica Hamby.
The women’s 3×3 basketball team won the inaugural competition at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics with notable players such as Kelsey Plum, Jackie Young, Stefanie Dolson, and Allisha Gray. Brink noted the distinct challenges of 3×3 basketball compared to the traditional 5×5 game. “It’s very different, way more exhausting than five-on-five,” she explained. “You need to make tough decisions when you’re really fatigued. It’s fast-paced, and there’s no time to dwell on mistakes. It allows me to be more versatile and contribute in various ways.”
As a rookie with the Sparks, Brink’s versatility has been on display. She’s shown her ability to score both near the basket and from beyond the arc, and her defensive skills have been evident through her shot-blocking and switching capabilities. Through the first nine games, Brink has averaged over 23 minutes per game, with statistics including 8.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.0 steals, and 2.6 blocked shots per game. Her shooting percentages are solid, with 44.8% from the field, 35% from three-point range, and 81.3% from the free-throw line.
However, Brink has faced challenges with foul trouble, averaging 4.4 fouls per game, a significant increase from her college average of 2.7 fouls. Adjusting to the physicality of the WNBA and adapting to the officiating are areas Brink is focusing on for improvement. Despite these hurdles, her potential and performance have shown that she is a key player for the Sparks, with a bright future ahead in both the WNBA and international competitions.
