photos c/o Dallas Wings
WNBA Takes Flight With Dallas Wings
by Shamequia Cason-Callahan
Historical, Dominant, Breaking Boundaries and all things affiliated with the Women's National BasketBall Association (WNBA) speaks to “Girl Power”. Dallas has provided us with yet, another reason to watch sports religiously, eat concession foods and schedule family outings. The Dallas Wings will be the first professional women’s basketball team, since the Dallas Diamonds during the 1970’s. There are plenty of reasons to be enthusiastic for the city, the Dallas Wings and the many individuals that will benefit from witnessing positive role models within the Metroplex. “The roster we brought in is going to bring competitive edge as we begin our training camp in the next couple of months”, said Dallas Wings Head Coach, Fred Williams.
This past week, on the campus of UT Arlington at the College Park Center, the Dallas Wings marked their territory with draft selection Aerial Powers from Michigan State in the first round, with a fifth overall pick. What does this mean?! It means that we have selected one of the best forwards to join alongside the star power and leadership in place; which includes one of our very own, Odyssey Sims from MacArthur High School and All-Star Player, Skylar Diggins. In the second round, Dallas selected Ruth Hamblin from Oregon State University. The 6-6 center brings a mean game, as she was an All-American honorable mention recipient and helped the Beavers to their first Final Four in program history. In the third round, 30th overall, Shakena Richardson from Seton Hall became the first WNBA draft pick in the history of Seton Hall. “We are happy to welcome Aerial, Ruth and Shakena to the Wings organization”, says Coach Williams.
Anticipation filled the stadium, as fans waited for the unveiling of the new team jerseys. The lights dimmed, the spotlight was in position and the two franchise team member’s, Odyssey and Skylar, walked the fan runway, sported colors that instantly grabs the attention and expressed an energy and love for residing in the Big D. Lime green, dark blue and white are the color pallets for this fashionable collaboration. With an apparel sponsor like Adidas, stylish is expected. The jerseys are cut with an accentuated V-neck and the trademark Adidas strips sway along the sides, as a finishing touch. The Dallas Wings understands the importance of showcasing their sponsors and placing them in front-literally. Verizon has prominent placement directly under each team member’s jersey number.
“I love the fact that they have gotten rid of the all-white jerseys and let the colors show. It’s bright, it’s flashy, y’all are not going to be able to lose us in these, said Skylar Diggins-jokingly and getting a crowd reaction. Newness is all around-a new city, new venue, new uniforms, new fans, new community initiatives and a new will to bring home the championship.
One thing for sure, I am drawn to the appeal of what will happen next. I have solidified my position as a fan and because I support the women's movement, I am eager to support the Dallas Wings. The Dallas Wings season opening game will happen May 21, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. at the College Park Center in Arlington, against the San Antonio Stars. In a state of the art stadium, seating 7,000 and plenty of fanfare, all eyes are watching the women of the WNBA and specifically – the Dallas Wings. Purchase your tickets and season passes: www.dallaswingsbasketball.com
