July 26, 2013
WNBA All-Star Weekend is underway in Connecticut. The festivities kicked off at Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School in New London, Connecticut, where the WNBA participated in the unveiling and dedication of a newly refinished basketball court to benefit the school's sixth-eigth grade students.
Court Unveiling Photo Gallery
In the early afternoon, WNBA President Laurel J. Richie announced that Atlanta Dream center Erika de Souza has been named to the Eastern Conference team to replace injured Chicago Sky forward Elena Delle Donne in tomorrow's Boost Mobile All-Star game. It will be de Souza's second All-Star appearance in her eight year-career.
Practice and media availability for both the East and West squads took place Friday afternoon. Coach Dunn led the East squad through a fun and interactive walkthrough, speaking over a microphone throughout practice so all the fans in attendance could get an inside look at the team's preparations. Fever guard Shavonte Zellous got a kick out of her first All-Star practice, while 8-time All-Star Tamika Catching enjoyed sharing the experience with Dunn, Zellous, and her college and pro coach, Fever assistant Mickie DeMoss.
At the end of Friday's practice, Coach Dunn promised $100 out of her own pocket to any player on the East squad who could hit a halfcourt shot. Most East players, including Catchings and Zellous, failed in their attempt. But Washington Mystics guard Ivory Latta's shot rattled through, much to the delight of the players and fans in attendance. Coach Dunn lived up to her word, giving a $100 bill to a giddy Latta.
FeverBasketball.com will have more photos and video from tomorrow's game. Check back throughout the weekend for frequent updates.