Recapping a busy Monday in WNBA free agency
IT NEVER STOPS
Keeping pace with the rest of free agency, the third Monday of WNBA free agency was a busy one and featured a ton of news. Here’s a recap of what happened.
Phoenix Mercury
To start the day, Phoenix announced the signing of Kia Vaughn, who was an unrestricted free agent and frontcourt veteran.
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Vaughn last played in the WNBA in 2018 with the New York Liberty, and has averaged 5.7 points and 4.0 rebounds, while shooting 53.3 percent. She has been playing in Turkey during this offseason.
“Kia Vaughn is a high-caliber veteran who brings size, toughness and playoff experience to an already improved roster,” said general manager Jim Pitman. “The addition of Kia continues an offseason of adding proven talent, both veteran and youth, adding toughness and athleticism, shooting and rebounding. Just like our other additions, Kia will be a great fit in Phoenix.”
Las Vegas Aces
Carolyn Swords, a 6’6 veteran center, announced her retirement from basketball and plans to join the Aces front office as a marketing specialist. She interned with the team during the 2018-19 offseason.
“I’m incredibly grateful that my basketball career brought me to Las Vegas, and allowed me to be a part of the launch of the Aces as a player,” said Swords. “It’s been an exciting two years, and I’m even more excited about the future as I transition into my new role with the front office.
New York Liberty
The New York Liberty signed Marine Johannés to a two-year deal. Jackie Powell has the details and analysis.
Connecticut Sun
The Sun acquired Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis in exchange for a 2021 second-round draft pick. Natalie Heavren has the details and analysis.
Seattle Storm
The Seattle Storm signed WNBA veteran Epiphanny Prince.
“Epiphanny’s tenure in our league has been an impressive one. Her skill and versatility in the backcourt add depth to our roster,” said Storm CEO and General Manager Alisha Valavanis. “She is a great fit on and off the court for the Storm and we’re excited to welcome her to Seattle.”
Prince, a two-time All-Star, has averaged 13.2 points, 2.9 assists and 2.3 rebounds throughout her career. The Aces signed Prince late last season, and she’s currently playing with Dynamo Kursk in Russia.
“I’m very excited about coming to the city of Seattle and joining a great organization,” said Prince. “I’m extremely grateful for this opportunity, and I can’t wait to get started with my new teammates and coaches.”
During free agency, Seattle Storm also re-signed Breanna Stewart, traded for Morgan Tuck.
Atlanta Dream
The Seattle Storm let go of Blake Dietrick, who was picked up by the Atlanta Dream on a training camp contract.
“We are excited to have Blake back in the ATL,” head coach Nicki Collen said. “She is a consummate pro who understands what we do, why we do it and is always willing to do the little things to make the team better.”
Dietrick was the last cut to finalize the Dream’s 2019 roster to start the season, but spent the 2018 season the team, averaging 1.4 points, 0.5 rebounds and 0.4 assists 26 games.
Last season with Seattle, she got her first WNBA start and played in 17 games.
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