The Los Angeles Sparks hired Utah head coach Lynne Roberts to the same position on Tuesday. Roberts, 49, is a California native who has excelled at the collegiate level, most recently as the Utes' head coach since 2015. Utah announced that associate head coach Gavin Petersen was promoted to head coach to replace Roberts. The Utes were 3-1 two weeks into the new season. "First and foremost, Lynne's leadership and integrity stand out," Sparks general manager Raegan Pebley said in a news release. "Her ability to partner with players while creating a winning culture will translate as we continue our path toward championship contention.