Sparks’ Kubik Becomes First Top Pick to Be Cut

The Sparks reached their required 11-player limit with a stunning move Sunday, cutting their first-round draft pick, Nicole Kubik, a 5-foot-10 guard from Nebraska.

It was the first time in the WNBA’s four seasons that a first-round choice has been dropped before the season opener.

The league’s 15th pick in the April 25 draft, Kubik was to back up veteran guard Tamecka Dixon. But the emergence of former USC and pro player Nicky McCrimmon--the 63rd selection of the draft--coupled with Kubik’s preseason struggles--resulted in the decision.

Also cut were Arizona’s Felicity Willis and New Mexico’s Abby Garcheck. Two 6-4 players, Carly Funicello of UCLA and Marte Alexander of Arizona, were placed on the two-week injured reserve list. Connecticut’s Paige Sauer was retained.