2011 WNBA Draft
Editor’s note: You’ve heard that Liz Cambage is tall (6-foot-8, to be exact). And you’ve probably heard that she’s Australian. (Yes, her “Good day, mate” is in perfect form.) But Monday was a day for true discovery: ESPN.com’s Kaitee Daley got to tag along — from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. — with Cambage as she experienced what it was like to be a top pick in the 2011 WNBA draft.
7 p.m. As it turns out, Cambage didn’t leave right away. She is spotted — surrounded by fellow Australians — lying on the floor of a nearby building on the ESPN campus, completely exhausted. When asked if she is OK: “Yes,” Cambage replies with a smile. But she better get used to the frenetic pace. As a member of her group commented, that is what her life is going to be like now. But as the day comes to a close and the players exchange hugs of both pride and relief with their family members, one thing becomes very apparent. Fans have only experienced the beginning of what is sure to be a 2011 WNBA rookie class filled with talent, heart and one fun Aussie.
6:37 p.m. The bus is significantly quieter on the way back to the Crowne Plaza. Maya Moore talks with Carolyn Swords about Five Guys Burgers and Fries. Xavier’s Amber Harris shrinks into her seat to make a phone call. And Stanford’s Kayla Pederson stares stoically at the Hartford skyline. It could be the nerve-wracking, energy-draining day that makes the ride home feel so different. But it could also be the absence of Cambage.
6:36 p.m. Sprinting to catch the bus, I’m informed that Cambage has left in a separate vehicle with her mom and agent. Earlier she told me she hadn’t finished packing. And with the wardrobe and accessories she carts around, a little extra time is needed.
5:50 p.m. Cambage reminds me that her Aussie buddy Rachel Jarry was taken 18th overall by the Atlanta Dream. Though the spotlight has been focused on Moore and Cambage all day long, they both seem genuinely happy for all the other players around them.
Category : Blog
Congrats to Elizabeth Cambage on being drafted second overall in today’s NBA Draft! Here’s a little video footage to help you get to know Liz a bit better.
Category : Blog
