Please come out to Cameron tonight at 7pm for the friendly between the US
national team and Australia. Come cheer on the return of Alana Beard to
her old stomping grounds. It's 7 bucks, but students get in for free and
there are various activities planned before the game on the plaza outside
Cameron starting at about 6pm. The Aussies are one of the best teams in
the world, and should feature former WNBA MVP Lauren Jackson. The US will
be short a couple of players. Katie Smith helped her Detroit Shock force
a decisive game five in the WNBA finals. Her teammate Cheryl Ford was
just named to the team as well. Lisa Leslie and Yolanda Griffith both
withdrew from the team for various reasons. Candace Parker and Michelle
Snow were also added to bring the roster to 12. Cappie Pondexter was also
working out with the team this week but will not be on the final roster.
Here's an article about Alana's return to Durham. Alana was also just named 2nd-team
All-WNBA, the first time she's received that honor. Here's a chat
transcript with Alana and Mystics & USA teammate Delisha Milton-Jones. Here are some photos from the open practice in Cameron
last Sunday. The end turned into a dunkfest by Snow and Parker. Abby
Waner worked out with the team on that night, and Alison Bales has also
been working out with a practice squad this week. One other random note
since I'm tossing them in there: Monique Currie just signed with an
Israeli team for this fall.