Topic: 15 Burning Questions
Over the next three weeks, our three contributors will attempt to answer 15 Burning Questions going into the 2009 WNBA Draft. Each day, we will post a question, followed by our thoughts on the subject matter. Don't forget to comment with your responses!
1. Who are some players that have been pleasant surprises in 2009?
MJ's take...
Some would say DeWanna Bonner (G/F, Auburn), but that’s because they never saw her play prior to this season. Ashley Paris (F/C, Oklahoma) comes to mind. She seems to be using the attention her sister receives on a nightly basis to her advantage by making opponents think twice about double-teaming Courtney. Losing weight during the summer seems to have made her more of a full court player. She’s also a better defender and rebounder than in years past. While she still isn’t quite an elite prospect like her twin sis (considered a first-round pick and not a top five pick like Courtney), she has given herself a chance to compete for a roster spot and possible rotation minutes in 2009. Like most players in this draft, nothing is a guarantee.
CD's take...
I definitely have to agree with Ashley Paris. Prior to the season, many "thought" she'd be good but we've actually seen how much she has improved as the season has gone on. She's very athletic and runs the floor incredibly well for a post. Plus, she's strong. All of that is the making for a strong WNBA prospect. Another name would be Ashley Walker. She's had one of the biggest breakout years this season. When many people thought of Cal, they thought of Alexis Gray-Lawson and Devanei Hampton but Walker has stolen the show this year. Walker is undersized in the post, but she has extreme athleticism (re: The 0.3 sec. shot) and has a knack for rebounding. Paris and Walker have probably surprised me the most.
