Nneka Ogwumike just passed another WNBA legend in career scoring

Nneka Ogwumike continues adding to one of the most accomplished careers in WNBA history, and Thursday night brought another major milestone. The Los Angeles Sparks veteran moved into fifth place on the league’s all-time scoring list during Los Angeles’ 97-88 win over the Phoenix Mercury, passing Hall of Famer Tamika Catchings in the process.

Ogwumike entered the night needing just 10 points to move ahead of Catchings. She reached the mark in the second quarter on a midrange jumper that felt fitting for one of the most fundamentally consistent stars the league has ever seen. By the end of the game, Ogwumike had scored 12 points, giving her 7,383 career points and sole possession of fifth place in WNBA history.

Nneka Ogwumike’s return to Los Angeles keeps getting better

The achievement added another meaningful moment to Ogwumike’s return season with the Sparks. After spending the first 12 years of her career in Los Angeles, Ogwumike left for the Seattle Storm in 2024 before returning to the Sparks this season. Her legacy with the franchise was already secure after winning Rookie of the Year in 2012, capturing MVP honors in 2016 and helping deliver a WNBA championship that same season.

Now, she is helping lead a new era in Los Angeles alongside younger stars like Cameron Brink.

Nneka Ogwumike has surpassed Tamika Catchings for fifth on the WNBA all-time scoring list. pic.twitter.com/49QCLeqUZA

“She amazes me every day,” Brink said after the game. “Her ability to lead and be a super caring human, but also just a killer on the court. We're super proud of her.”

That balance between leadership and production has defined Ogwumike’s career for more than a decade. Even at this stage, she remains one of the league’s most reliable frontcourt players and one of the most respected veterans in basketball.

The Sparks suddenly have real momentum

Los Angeles has not reached the playoffs since 2020, but the Sparks are beginning to show signs of becoming relevant again in the Western Conference. Ogwumike’s presence has played a major role in that shift. Her consistency gives Los Angeles stability while players like Brink continue developing into franchise cornerstones.

MORE: Caitlin Clark, Sophie Cunningham receive surprising challenge from Nikki Bella

Teammate Dearica Hamby acknowledged how meaningful the moment was after the game.

“Her being here is a full-circle moment,” Hamby said. “To break that record, being back in L.A., I’m sure it means a lot to her.”

Ogwumike still has more history within reach as well. Tina Thompson currently sits fourth on the all-time scoring list with 7,488 points, meaning another climb could happen sooner rather than later. And based on how Ogwumike is playing right now, it would be unwise to bet against her reaching it.

More WNBA news:

• Portland Fire make ruthless roster move after Fever loss
• Dallas Wings proved they are much more than just Paige Bueckers
• Caitlin Clark opens up about hidden side of WNBA stardom
• Aliyah Boston update could change everything for Fever against Portland
• Caitlin Clark named Grand Marshal for 110th Indianapolis 500