West Hartford, CT ? University of Hartford senior forward Danielle Hood became the first player drafted from the women's basketball program when she was selected as the 32nd overall pick going to the Atlanta Dream, the newest team in the 14 team WNBA. Hood was the fourth selection in the third round and the final pick for the Dream.
“I am thrilled, proud and happy for Danielle,” said head coach Jennifer Rizzotti. “I think it is a wonderful opportunity going to an expansion team where nothing is set and everyone comes in on a level playing field.”
Hood was one of 40 players selected to showcase their talents during the WNBA Draft Camp and came home with a positive experience. “This is crazy,” said Hood “I am really excited.”
Hood closed out her career as the second all time leading scorer in school history and was a member of a class that won more 20 or more games in every season. Hood helped lead the Hawks to their fourth ever NCAA Tournament after winning the programs fourth America East Championship. Hood is a three-time America East All Conference First Team player and has earned all-conference honors all four years.
The Dream's other picks in the 2008 draft include Tamera Young (James Madison) in the first round and a familiar face in Morenike Atunrase from Texas A&M, whom the Hawks fell to in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Other familiar faces on the Dream's squad include Ivory Latta from North Carolina and Ann Strother from Connecticut.
The Atlanta Dream will play two preseason games before opening their season on the road at the Connecticut Sun on Saturday, May 17 at 4:00 p.m.
