The Partnership will promote free and low-cost resources to help people quit smoking and vaping while also encouraging those who use menthol or other flavored tobacco products to make a quit attempt
LOS ANGELES (June 21, 2023) – The Los Angeles Sparks today announced a partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) for the 2023 season to promote Public Health’s L.A. Quits tobacco-free campaign. The partnership is a continuation of a multi-year collaboration between the two organizations to encourage our community to live a tobacco-free life.
A PSA featuring Sparks players will be shared during home games and on the Sparks social channels throughout the season. During the Sparks game on May 25th, a custom pre-game shirt was worn by players, coaching staff, and the sideline announcer to promote the “Never Stop Quitting” anti-smoking and anti-vaping campaign, both in-game and on the TV broadcast.
“We are honored to partner with the LA Sparks again to continue our efforts to inspire our community towards a healthier, tobacco-free life,” said Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, MEd, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. “Quitting smoking or vaping can take multiple attempts, but with support from ‘your team’ – family members, friends, your healthcare provider, your home community – and available resources on LAQuits.com, you can successfully quit smoking or vaping.”
“We are proud to reunite with Public Health to continue building awareness for this important cause,” said Sparks GM & Chief Administrative Officer Karen Bryant. “The health and wellness of our community is a top priority the Sparks share with the Department and we look forward to an exciting 2023 season with them as a partner.”
The LA Sparks tipped off the season on May 19th at Crypto.com Arena with several new roster additions in two-time All-Star Dearica Hamby, All-Star Jasmine Thomas, WNBA Champion Azura Stevens, along with the recently re-signed Ogwumike sisters. On April 10th, the Sparks drafted NCAA champion Zia Cooke with the 10th pick in the WNBA Draft.
ABOUT THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
The Department of Public Health is committed to promoting health equity and ensuring optimal health and well-being for all 10 million residents of Los Angeles County. Through a variety of programs, community partnerships and services, Public Health oversees environmental health, disease control, and community and family health. Nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health comprises of more than 5,000 employees and has an annual budget of $1.3 billion. To learn more about Los Angeles County Public Health, visit PublicHealth.LACounty.gov, and follow LA County Public Health on social media at twitter.com/LAPublicHealth, facebook.com/LAPublicHealth, instagram.com/LApublichealth and youtube.com/LAPublicHealth.
ABOUT THE LOS ANGELES SPARKS
Founded in 1996, the Los Angeles Sparks are one of three original franchises in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). The Sparks have won three WNBA Championships (2001, 2002, 2016), have qualified for the playoffs in 20 of their 26 seasons and remain the only active team in the league to win back-to-back titles. The Los Angeles Sparks are dedicated to ensuring each home game at Crypto.com Arena has a championship level entertainment experience while showcasing the best female athletes from around the world on the court. LA Sparks 2023 single-game tickets are available here for purchase.
Press Contact: Sue Carpenter & Jeseny Escobar pr@la-sparks.com