If you follow the WNBA you will be well-versed in the latest WNBA news. This week, the WNBA has announced its roster for the AT&T WNBA All-Star 2022, Noelle Quinn has been named the first Black head coach for the Seattle Storm, and Brittney Griner was sentenced to nine years in a Russian penal colony. LASparks is celebrating their 500th win. Continue reading for more information.
WNBA has announced the roster for AT&T WNBA All-Stars 2022
The roster for next Sunday's AT&T WNBA All-Star was announced by WNBA. This roster includes Jewell Love, Courtney Vandersloot as well Atlanta Dream rookie Rhyne. All-Stars can be chosen by fans or head coaches. With two-thirds of each team's players selected, the WNBA roster is the most extensive in history. There are a lot of notable players missing from the game, including Elena Delle Donne, who has not played since her back surgery, and Nneka Ogwumike, who missed the Olympics because of an injury.
Noelle Quinn appointed first Black head Coach for Seattle Storm
Noelle Quinn was named the first Black head coaching position in the history and development of the Seattle Storm. Quinn joins Vickie Johnson, the Dallas Wings' head coach, as the only Black woman currently leading WNBA teams. There are also two Black men who have served as head coaches in the league: James Wade of the Chicago Sky and Derek Fisher of the Los Angeles Sparks. Quinn has an impressive resume - she played for the Los Angeles Sparks from 1997 to 2000.
Brittney Griner sentenced for nine years in a Russian penal colony
American basketball star Brittney Griner has been sentenced to nine years in a penal colony in Russia after being found guilty of drug smuggling. The trial, which lasted multiple months, has become a geopolitical flashpoint between the United States and Russia. The case stems from Griner's arrest in February at the Moscow airport, where Russian officials accused her of trying to smuggle cannabis oil into her suitcase. While she denied intent to violate any laws by Griner, she admitted to having packed vape cartridges filled with cannabis oil.
500th game won by LASparks
The LASparks have won 500 games! Congrats! The Sparks have now won three championships and are tied for second all-time in league history. Their playoff run was not as successful as they expected, missing the playoffs five more times. While they made some notable moves in the winter, the team is still stuck at the bottom of their game. Here are some points to consider when looking at the team’s future.
Players are forced to fly on chartered flight
Recently, the WNBA made headlines for its new policy requiring its players fly on chartered planes to travel for games. Many claim that this is something the NBA would never allow, but the WNBA doesn't permit it. Additionally, the WNBA has no revenue sharing with the NBA. Furthermore, the WNBA is not the only professional sports league in the United States that has faced controversy over charter flights. Charter flights have been a significant issue in Major League Soccer.
The new season of WNBA aims raise money for nonprofits
The WNBA's new season aims at raising funds for nonprofits. Many players have played an active role in social justice advocacy and have played a part in many organizations. Former Houston Comets star Cheryl Swoopes is one such advocate. The former WNBA player, who has won four championships, founded two nonprofit organizations to raise money for women in STEM fields.