Terp forward goes second in the WNBA draft
For the second consecutive year the Washington Mystics used their first pick in the WNBA draft on a Maryland Terrapin, taking Marissa Coleman with the second overall selection on Thursday.
“I hoped it was an option, just because I would love to stay close to home,” said Coleman. “I was nervous leading up to the draft, and when my name was called, I could breathe again, a sigh of relief.”
Afterward the 22-year-old from Cheltenham, Md., quickly got in touch her former teammate and the Mystics’ top pick 2008, Crystal Langhorne.
“She and I had three great years together on and off the court,” said Coleman. “Hopefully we can continue to do well and hopefully win a championship.”
“Her size, versatility, and ability to score from anywhere on the floor makes her a very special player,” said Mystics general manager Angela Taylor. “Her competitiveness, work ethic, and passion for winning have made her a champion.”
Kristi Toliver followed Coleman to the stage immediately — after being picked by the Chicago Sky with the third pick of the draft. Louisville guard Angel McCoughtry was selected first overall by the Atlanta Dream.
Washington also selected USC guard Camille LeNoir and Serbian center Jelena Milovanovic in the second round and Kenyan center Josephine Owino out of Union (Tenn.) in the third.
The Mystics lost their last 10 games in 2008 to finish with a 10-24 record, leading to the hiring of Taylor and new head coach Julie Plank during the offseason.
