Cameron Brink returns to the WNBA… with fire and a few doubts

After more than a year away from basketball, Cameron Brink is finally back doing what she loves most. On August 1, she made her long-awaited return with the Los Angeles Sparks, following a tough recovery from a torn ACL and meniscus in her left knee. The injury, which occurred in June 2024, cut short a promising rookie season that lasted just 15 games. But Brink didn’t give up. She came back with energy—and with a raw honesty that makes her story even more compelling.

Complex confessions

On her podcast Straight to Cam, Cameron Brink shared what many athletes tend to keep to themselves: comebacks aren’t always glamorous. “I feel good,” she said. But she also admitted she wished she had been more aggressive in her first games back. That mix of excitement and regret reveals just how layered the return from a serious injury can be. It’s not just about being physically ready—it’s about regaining rhythm, confidence, and competitive edge.

Her co-host, Sydel Curry-Lee—sister of Steph Curry—put it plainly. Cameron Brink wouldn’t have been satisfied even if she’d scored a thousand points. That’s just who she is. Brink came off the bench in her first two games, averaging 6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 2 blocks in just 13 minutes per game. The Sparks are being cautious with her minutes, and rightly so. But signs point to her gradually returning to her usual workload.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida de Cam (@cameronbrink22)

Focused mindset

As Athlon Sports noted, Cameron Brink isn’t just dealing with the physical side of recovery. She’s also navigating the media pressure. “I didn’t miss that part,” she admitted candidly. The cameras, the interviews, the constant scrutiny… they’re part of the job, but not always welcome. Still, Brink says her mindset this season is different. She feels more confident, more mature, more grounded.

Cameron Brink’s return has been celebrated by WNBA icons like Lisa Leslie, Azura Stevens, and Chiney Ogwumike. All of them recognize the grit it takes to come back from such a serious injury. And while the Sparks are still searching for their rhythm this season, having Brink back is a breath of fresh air—for the team and for the league.