Welcome to the WNBA

In preparation for their new lives in the pros, a group of up and coming rookies recently participated in the 2012 WNBA Player Orientation in Connecticut. Presented by the WNBPA and WNBA, the program exists to assist the women in transitioning to the league and understanding the challenges they may face, on and off the court.

The ladies heard from a number of compelling speakers, including WNBA stars Tamika Catchings, Kara Lawson, Shannon Bobbitt, Kalana Greene and Carolyn Swords, as well as WNBPA Director of Operations Pam Wheeler and WNBA President Laurel Richie. A number of topics also were addressed by experts in areas like financial planning, security, domestic violence, health, nutrition, image and the media. They were even treated to a special fashion and hair/makeup session, which was a huge success!

In addition to the interactive seminars, the group traveled to ESPN studios in Bristol, Conn., to hold a basketball clinic and meet with network executives and talent before heading into the studio for the live WNBA Draft. With their families by their side, each of the 15 women had their names called and learned where in the country their WNBA careers would take them.

Check out the photos from Draft day: http://www.wnbpa.org/photo-galleries/draft-day-2012/