In a move that boosts both the Washington Mystics’ athleticism and its local appeal after a dreadful start to the 2007 season, the team announced Thursday the acquisition of six-foot guard/forward Monique Currie from the Chicago Sky in exchange for 6-3 center Chasity Melvin.
Currie, a District native, was named Naismith prep player of the year in 2001 and won consecutive Independent Schools League titles at Bullis before a superlative career at Duke, where she was a two-time All-American and teammate of Mystics guard Alana Beard.
“This sure is a blessing for the Washington area,” said Wayne Ferrell, Currie’s former high school coach.
Currie, who currently averages 14.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists, was drafted third overall by the Charlotte Sting in 2006 and then was taken by Chicago with the first pick in the 2007 Dispersal Draft after the Sting folded in January.
“Monique is a player that we targeted for a couple of years,” said Mystics general manager Linda Hargrove. “We feel that she is a strong player and she fills a need for us.”
Melvin, an eight-year veteran, departs after three seasons with the Mystics. She led the Mystics in minutes played (999), rebounds (224) and blocked shots (290) last year.
