Cooper had several standout performances in 2021, including recording a career-high 26 points on June 24, 2021 to lift the Sparks to an 89-82 victory over the Washington Mystics. She scored in double-figures 13 times and hit the 20-point mark three times. Cooper also played a significant role in the Sparks No. 3 defense with her high energy and defensive pressure.
“Te’a took on a bigger role for us last season and showed significant growth on both ends of the floor,” General Manager/Head Coach Derek Fisher said. “Her ability to disrupt the game defensively as well as attack the basket on the offensive end will be important for us moving forward. We’re confident she’ll continue to elevate her game and be an impact player in this league.”
Off the court, Cooper continues her ascension as an influential voice in women’s sports, leading the WNBA with over 3.5 million followers across all social media platforms. According to Sports Pro Media, she’s the 17th most marketable athlete in the world and has a partnership with Jumpman, Nike’s Jordan Brand.
Cooper finished her collegiate career at Baylor University and was drafted 18th overall in the 2020 WNBA Draft by the Phoenix Mercury. She was waived on May 26, 2020 prior to the WNBA bubble. The Sparks then signed her on June 28, 2020 for her rookie season and re-signed her on January 11, 2021 after her strong rookie campaign.
ABOUT THE LOS ANGELES SPARKS
Founded in 1996, the Los Angeles Sparks are one of three original franchises in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). The Sparks have won three WNBA Championships (2001, 2002, 2016), have qualified for the playoffs in 20 of their 25 seasons and remain the only active team in the league to win back-to-back titles. The Los Angeles Sparks are dedicated to ensuring each home game at Crypto.com Arena has a championship level entertainment experience while showcasing the best female athletes from around the world on the court. LA Sparks 2022 season tickets are available here for purchase.
