Cameron Brink's reaction says it all after Sparks miss out on Paige Bueckers pick

The 2025 WNBA Draft is already shaping up to be one of the most talked-about events in the league's recent history, and for good reason. The draft order, determined by Sunday's lottery, has set the stage for a major win-and disappointment-for two prominent teams eyeing the top prize: UCONN's Paige Bueckers.

Bueckers, the standout guard with a superstar reputation, is widely considered the future of women's basketball. Her impact on the college stage is unmatched; just last season, she racked up an average of 21.9 points per game and topped it off with 150 assists and 86 steals. In the current season, she's already kept her momentum, scoring 64 points across three games with a dazzling 21.3-point average.

For the Los Angeles Sparks, the lottery result was a painful reminder of how unpredictable the process can be. Entering with a commanding 44.2% chance to secure the No. 1 pick, the team seemed well-positioned to snag Bueckers and bolster their guard lineup-a need spotlighted after focusing heavily on forwards in their previous draft. However, the night took a turn when the Dallas Wings, who started with lower odds, swooped in and claimed the coveted first pick.

The Sparks, left with the No. 2 spot, appeared visibly disappointed, none more so than their rising star, Cameron Brink. The camera caught her reaction, reflecting the collective disappointment of the franchise as the realization set in: Paige Bueckers would likely not be heading to Los Angeles.

The Sparks are now preparing their draft strategy

Despite this setback, the Sparks are now tasked with re-evaluating their strategy for the draft, which will be held on April 14, 2025, just after the college season wraps up. Current projections have them eyeing USC's Kiki Iriafen, a senior power forward who could be a solid addition but doesn't address the team's needs in the backcourt.

Meanwhile, Dallas looks set to capitalize on their unexpected lottery victory. Bueckers' arrival, should she enter the draft as planned, would mark a game-changing moment for the Wings, who celebrated their win with obvious excitement.

As April approaches, the focus will remain on how Los Angeles plans to move forward with their second pick and whether they can turn disappointment into opportunity. For now, all eyes are on Paige Bueckers and where her professional career will officially begin.