The Los Angeles Sparks and Chicago Sky are negotiating a potential trade that would send forward Rickea Jackson to Chicago in exchange for guard Ariel Atkins, according to Front Office Sports reporter Annie Costabile.
Jackson, selected fourth overall by the Sparks in the 2024 WNBA Draft out of Tennessee, has spent her first two professional seasons in Los Angeles. The 2025 campaign marked her most productive yet, with averages of 14.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.7 assists across 38 appearances, including 37 starts.
During her rookie season, Jackson earned WNBA All-Rookie Team honors after posting 13.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. She has also participated in the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league and played for Breeze BC during the most recent offseason.
Atkins spent just one season with Chicago after arriving via trade from the Washington Mystics. The veteran guard averaged 13.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.5 steals per game in her 34 starts for the Sky last season.
Throughout her career, Atkins has established herself as one of the league's premier defensive players, earning two WNBA All-Star selections and four All-Defensive second team honors. She was also a key contributor to the Washington Mystics' 2019 championship team.
The potential trade discussions come after Chicago designated Atkins as a "core" player under terms of the WNBA's new collective bargaining agreement. This designation would make the Sky the only team able to offer her a supermax qualifying offer.
Chicago has been actively overhauling its roster this offseason, including a recent high-profile move that sent Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream in exchange for 2027 and 2028 first-round picks. If completed, the Jackson trade would reunite her with fellow 2024 draft class member Kamilla Cardoso, the No. 3 overall pick that year.
Both teams are looking to rebound after disappointing 2025 seasons. The Sky struggled to a 10-34 record under new head coach Tyler Marsh, including eight losses in their final nine games. Chicago holds the No. 5 overall pick in next week's WNBA Draft after previously trading what became the No. 2 selection to Minnesota.
The Sparks finished the 2025 season at 21-23, two games short of playoff qualification. Jackson was the team's third-leading scorer behind Kelsey Plum and Dearica Hamby.
The potential trade represents a significant shift for both franchises as they seek to improve their competitive standing in the league. Jackson would provide Chicago with young offensive firepower, while Atkins would bring veteran leadership and defensive intensity to Los Angeles.
