Los Angeles Sparks assistant coach Latricia Trammell has 28 years of coaching experience; she was head coach in NAIA Division 1 women’s basketball. Trammell coached Oklahoma City University to two national championships in 2014 and 2015. In three years at Oklahoma City, Trammell posted a record of 85-10. Trammell was also the head coach of Western State Colorado for five years and had many other NCAA assistant coaching jobs.
Before joining the Sparks in 2019, Latricia Trammell was an assistant coach for the San Antonio Silver Stars. As a result, I had the chance to ask Coach Trammell a few questions about the 2022 WNBA Season.
You interviewed for head coaching jobs; how did that process go?
It was an incredible experience and honor visiting with a couple of teams this off-season. It’s always interesting to see how other organizations conduct business and the expectations they have for their franchise. I was very grateful and impressed with the leadership I witnessed.
Who are the players who have stood out in training camp?
This was the most competitive training camp since we arrived in 2019. Coach did an amazing job putting this roster together. Players are battling in every position to secure a spot on the roster. Liz brings a dynamic presence to the group. Chiney O. has looked really good.
Liz Cambage and Chennedy Carter are new to the team; what will they bring to the Sparks franchise?
Liz and Carter bring a special dynamic to the group. They have been fan favorites at their previous stops, and both players have a skill set mentally and physically that fans like to watch. Not only are they extremely good at their craft they want to continue to empower women.
Do you expect the Sparks to be the top-ranked defense this year?
The expectation is to be at the top defensively every season. A lot of things need to fall in place for this to happen.
What Skills make an excellent defensive player?
Defense is a mindset. You need to see and feel yourself being successful. Discipline, grit, and energy are non-negotiables. Great footwork a buy into what we are trying to teach.
Best defensive player you ever coached?
This is hard! I’ve had great defensive teams and each team has had specific players that brought special talents to that end. It’s a very long list!
What has Olivia Nelson-Ododa shown in training camp?
Olivia’s size, length, ability to score and defend multiple positions has brought the team depth. I’ve heard her teammates on several occasions mention that Olivia doesn’t play like a rookie. She has a high ceiling.
Who are some players and coaches you looked up to?
All the vets that I’ve had the opportunity to coach. The players that have overcome life adversity that has inspired me and so many others. Pat Summitt was a coach that I admired. My older brother Donny that coached over 30 years was a big inspiration growing up.
What are you looking forward to most this season?
Winning. Growing as a coach and person. Working alongside Coach Fisher and the rest of the organization. Teaching and mentoring a wonderful group of women
What’s on your music playlist?
Depending on my mood but Macy Gray, Arrested development, Alicia Keys, Prince, Missy Elliott, and Lil Troy just to name a few.
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