Sparks face backlash after social media users accuse WNBA team of posting ‘thirst traps’

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The Los Angeles Sparks came under fire on social media this week for a post that some users claimed sexualized one of the team’s players. 

The Sparks' X page shared a post Tuesday afternoon teasing the team’s game against the Seattle Storm later that evening. 

The post shared a graphic of rookie guard Sarah Ashlee Barker wearing what appeared to be a crop top. 

Sarah Ashlee Barker (13) of the Los Angeles Sparks is defended by Skylar Diggins (4) of the Seattle Storm in the second half at Crypto.com Arena June 17, 2025, in Los Angeles.  (Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)

"Back in front of the home crowd," the post said, adding game details. 

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Fans seemed unimpressed with the decision to post Barker dressed in that way. 

"Where's the jersey's man," one user wrote. 

"These gameday posts frying me. No unis or nothing, just thirst traps," another added. 

Another user wrote, in part, "What kind of chance does women's sports have if this is OFFICIAL team communication??? Are they playing in lingerie? Then put them in the fkn jerseys on gameday." 

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The Sparks have previously shared game day posts of players wearing their uniforms. 

A basketball with the Commissioner's Cup logo during a game between the Seattle Storm and the LA Sparks at Crypto.com Arena June 17, 2025.   (Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)

Just last week, Sparks forward Cameron Brink faced similar criticism from a fan online, accusing the former first-round pick of putting more time into "walking down red carpets and schmoozing" than