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Sparks Sign Kiana Williams Under WNBA Development-Contract Rule

The move shows teams can use in-season offer sheets to add ready guards quickly while forcing standard-roster cuts.

Overview

  • Los Angeles acquired guard Kiana Williams from the Phoenix Mercury’s development roster after Phoenix declined to match an offer sheet and Williams joined Sparks practice to provide immediate backcourt help.
  • The Sparks cleared a standard roster spot by waiving second-year center Sania Feagin to make room for Williams on the 12-player roster.
  • Coach Lynne Roberts said the primary reason for the signing was a need for another ball‑handling point guard to relieve starters Erica Wheeler and Kelsey Plum.
  • Second-year guard Kate Martin remains on a development deal and has used 11 of her allowed 12 development-game appearances, creating a near-term decision point if the team wants to convert her to a standard contract.
  • Under the WNBA’s new CBA, teams gained two restricted development spots that other clubs can sign away in-season with offer sheets, which forces the original club to either match or promote the player and cut someone from its 12-player roster.