LOS ANGELES, CA – February 8, 2017 – The Los Angeles Sparks re-signed Alana Beard, Executive Vice President and General Manager Penny Toler announced today. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The 5-foot-11 shooting guard, four-time WNBA All-Star and 2016 WNBA Champion has played the last five seasons with the Sparks, starting all 34 games last season averaging 29.3 minutes per game, 7.1 PPG and 1.7 steals. In her first WNBA Finals appearance, Beard captured the Sparks victory with a game-winning jump shot at the buzzer in Game 1, and eventually, the 2016 WNBA Championship.
“When I think of Alana, three things come to mind – Hard Worker, Mentally tough, & Leadership,” said Penny Toler, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the LA Sparks. “I am really glad she is on our team and we don’t have to play against her!”
As the #2 overall pick of the 2004 WNBA Draft, Beard played six seasons with the Washington Mystics and averaged 16.2 points, 4.2 rebounds 2.9 assists and 1.9 steals per game. During her rookie season with the team, Alana earned her first of six WNBA All-Defense Team honors and set the franchise record for most total steals in a season (69).
“I am extremely grateful for another chance to play the game I love alongside a special group of women. I would like to thank the Los Angeles Sparks organization for giving me that opportunity again,” said Alana Beard. “Last but not least, I would like to thank the best fans in the league for always supporting us with such passion and heart! See you soon!”
The 2017 Sparks season will tip-off May 13 at 2pm, presented by EquiTrust. The home opener will feature the Championship Ring ceremony. For Sparks’ ticket information, call 844-GO- SPARKS or visit LASparks.com. The LA Sparks can be found on all social media outlets at @la_Sparks.