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LA Chamique
The Los Angeles Sparks made a power move yesterday by trading for WNBA All-Star Chamique Holdsclaw. At first glance this move is cause for celebration for Sparks fans (if there are any Sparks fans). Holdsclaw brings instant star power, and could form a dynamic duo with Lisa Leslie. But while there was once a time when everyone thought Holdsclaw would take over women's basketball, it hasn't quite worked out that way.
Holdsclaw has been a solid WNBA player, who averages over 18 points a game, but she's not the female Jordan that some expected her to be. Perhaps those unreasonable expectations are why she has been suffering from clinical depression which caused her to miss half of the 2004 season.
So will Holdsclaw feel happy in LA?
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"We are taking a risk, but that is what we're about. I don't know Chamique personally, but from what I know of her, I think she will be excited to come to L.A. We have a strong organization and a respectful approach for the players who play for the Lakers and Sparks," Team President Johnny Buss said.
Way to do your homework, Johnny. How about trade for a player with clinical depression, who you don't know, and haven't really spoken to? And give up a great player like Delisha Milton along with a first pick to do it? Most teams would require full medical records, examinations, interviews, etc. before trading for someone like Holdsclaw.
Chamique may very well turn out great in LA. She certainly has the talent to be a winner. But one can't help but think Johnny Buss has made a rash decision here. Perhaps that's why daddy Jerry made him the President of the Sparks and sister Jeannie President of the Lakers.
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