Rookie Sparks players Cameron Brink and Rickea Jackson threw the first pitch before the Dodgers’ game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium. Brink, who had the opportunity to speak with Japanese baseball star Shohei Ohtani before the pitch, was told by Ohtani that his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, a former professional Japanese basketball player, wanted to meet her. This meeting with Ohtani was a highlight for Brink, who was excited to meet the fellow New Balance athlete for the first time.
Issues of race and equity were brought up with the marketing boom surrounding Caitlin Clark, prompting questions and discussions. Brink and Jackson lined up side-by-side on the mound to throw their pitches, with Brink’s pitch going straight into the glove of Dodgers outfielder Miguel Vargas. However, Jackson’s pitch went off target and Dodgers pitcher Bobby Miller had to make an impressive catch to avoid any mishaps. This eventful evening also included meeting manager Dave Roberts and other players and delivering the late Vin Scully’s famous line before the start of the game.
Brink and Jackson will be returning to the court to play against the Washington Mystics at Crypto.com Arena after the whirlwind experience at Dodger Stadium. Brink, averaging seven points, five rebounds, and 3½ blocks in 22.5 minutes as a starter, and Jackson, averaging 10 points in 20 minutes off the bench, have been experiencing overwhelming attention and love in their early games. They expressed gratitude for the recognition women’s basketball is receiving and credited the veteran players for deserving the spotlight.
Shohei Ohtani’s wife, Mamiko Tanaka, a former professional Japanese basketball player, expressed her interest in meeting Sparks rookie Cameron Brink after Ohtani mentioned her during their conversation. Brink and Jackson’s first pitch at Dodger Stadium was eventful, with Brink’s pitch reaching the target while Jackson’s went off course and required an impressive catch from Dodgers pitcher Bobby Miller to avoid any accidents. The evening was a whirlwind of excitement for the rookies, who also had the opportunity to meet Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and other players.
The marketing boom around Caitlin Clark has sparked discussions on race and equity, raising important questions in the sports industry. Brink and Jackson’s experience at Dodger Stadium was memorable, with the opportunity to throw the first pitch, meet baseball star Shohei Ohtani, and be part of the pregame ceremonies. Their return to the court for the Sparks’ game against the Washington Mystics will be an exciting continuation of their rookie season, as they aim to contribute to the team’s success and continue to receive the overwhelming attention and support that they have experienced in their early games.
