The Los Angeles Sparks hired Ariana Andonian as general manager Friday, replacing Raegan Pebley who was fired July 12. Andonian previously served as GM and vice president of player personnel for the Philadelphia 76ers' G League affiliate, the Delaware Blue Coats. A USC graduate and California native, Andonian called the role "an opportunity of a lifetime" and emphasized building a culture of excellence.

The Sparks will miss the playoffs for the sixth straight season and are 15-25 at the FIBA World Cup break. The team faces transition with veteran forward Nneka Ogwumike retiring after this season and guard Kelsey Plum traded to Phoenix in August. Andonian will oversee all basketball operations including roster construction, scouting, and strategy, and will decide the future of coach Lynne Roberts.

Sparks managing partner Eric Holoman praised Andonian as an exceptional talent evaluator with a vision for sustained success. Andonian's career includes roles with the Houston Rockets, Duke men's basketball under Mike Krzyzewski and Jon Scheyer, and the Memphis Grizzlies before joining the 76ers in 2024. She becomes the Sparks' sixth GM since 1997, following instability after Penny Toler's 2019 departure.