

After years of anticipation, the Los Angeles Sparks are set to celebrate the storied career of DeLisha Milton-Jones by retiring her jersey in a special halftime ceremony. This momentous event will take place when the Sparks face the New York Liberty, marking a proud moment for both the team and Milton-Jones. As a pivotal contributor to the Sparks' first two WNBA championships in 2001 and 2002, Milton-Jones' legacy is etched in the annals of basketball history. The announcement of her jersey retirement brought immense joy to Milton-Jones, who expressed her gratitude, saying, 'Moments like this are well worth the wait. I’m filled with pure joy and gratitude knowing my day has come to receive flowers of this magnitude for the legacy I’ve left within the game of basketball and the Sparks organization. I’m honored to be recognized in this way and incredibly elated to take my place in the rafters alongside my forever teammates Penny Toler, Lisa Leslie, and Candace Parker.' Her jersey will join the ranks of those belonging to her esteemed former teammates, solidifying her place in the team's legacy. Before the confirmation of her jersey retirement, Milton-Jones harbored doubts about whether this honor would materialize, given her absence from some of the league's other recognitions such as All-Star selections. However, these doubts were laid to rest as the announcement turned from hope into reality. Ahead of the ceremony, an elated Milton-Jones shared her relief and happiness, noting that getting the call for her jersey retirement was a significant personal victory. 'To get that call and to know that they weren't faking it, and it is legit, and it is going to happen and plans are being made, I am overjoyed,' she said. Her journey is a testament to perseverance and the impactful legacy she left on and off the court, ultimately leading to this well-deserved recognition.