If you follow the WNBA, you're probably familiar with the latest WNBA news. The WNBA announced this week its roster for the AT&T WNBA All-Star 2022. Noelle Quinn was named the first Black head coach of the Seattle Storm. Brittney Griner was sentenced for nine years in a Russian penal colony. LASparks won their 500th game. Continue reading for more information.
WNBA announces AT&T WNBA All-Star roster 2022
The roster was announced by the WNBA for the AT&T WNBA All-Star on Sunday. First-timers Jewell Loyd and Courtney Vandersloot are on the roster, as well as Rhyne Howard, Atlanta Dream rookie. All-Stars can be chosen by fans or head coaches. The WNBA's roster has the largest ever, with almost three-quarters of the players coming from each team. There are many notable players who have been absent from the game including Elena Delle Donne (who has not played since her back surgery) and Nneka Ogwumike (who missed the Olympics due to an injury).
Noelle Quinn is the first Black head coach of the Seattle Storm
Noelle Quinn, the Seattle Storm's first Black head coach, has been appointed. Quinn joins Dallas Wings head coach Vickie Johnson as the only Black women currently leading WNBA franchises. James Wade of Chicago Sky is the head coach, while Derek Fisher of Los Angeles Sparks is the other Black man who has served in this role. Quinn boasts a impressive record - she was a Los Angeles Sparks player 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 lasted many months and has become a geopolitical flashpoint. Griner was detained in February at Moscow airport. Russian officials had accused her of trying smuggle marijuana oil into her luggage. While she denied intent to violate any laws by Griner, she admitted to having packed vape cartridges filled with cannabis oil.
500th game for LASparks
The LASparks have won their 500th game! Congrats! The Sparks are now tied for second in league history with three championships won. However, their playoff run has not gone quite as planned, as they missed the playoffs five times. In response, they made a few high-profile moves over the winter, but their season is still stalling. These are some important things to remember when you look at the future of the team:
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. Although many people believe that the NBA wouldn't allow it, the WNBA does not permit this. Moreover, the WNBA does not share revenue with the NBA. Charter flights have also been a source of controversy for the WNBA and other professional sports leagues in the United States. Charter flights have also been a point of contention in Major League Soccer.
The new season of WNBA aims raise money for nonprofits
New season of the WNBA aims to raise funds for non-profits. Many players have played an active role in social justice advocacy and have played a part in many organizations. Cheryl Swoopes was a Houston Comets former star. Two nonprofits were founded by the former WNBA player who won four championships.