NEW YORK, Sept. 8 - The WNBA announced today that Paula Hanson has been named the league's Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, effective October 1, 1999. Hanson is currently Senior Vice President of Team Operations for the National Basketball Association.

"Paula Hanson has made countless contributions to the successful operations of the NBA and its teams," said NBA Commissioner David Stern. "The fact that Paula is stepping up to this position with the WNBA reflects both the confidence we have in her ability and our commitment to the continued growth of the WNBA."

In the newly created position, Hanson will oversee the WNBA's marketing, public relations and event management, and work with teams on their local business operations.

"While working for the NBA, Paula played a key role in the start-up and growth of the league, and we are extremely fortunate to have her now devoting her efforts full- time to the WNBA," said WNBA President Val Ackerman. "She is a highly respected, accomplished sports professional who will bring a great deal of experience and leadership to the WNBA League Office."

"From the time of its creation, the WNBA has been one of my passions," Hanson said. "I am very excited to have this opportunity and look forward to the challenge of helping direct the league's growth."

A graduate of the University of Colorado with a degree in journalism, Hanson was named Vice President of Team Services for NBA Properties in 1985 after having spent 11 years with the Denver Nuggets. She was promoted to her current position with the NBA in 1996. With the Nuggets, Hanson served as the team's Director of Promotions, Vice President of Marketing and Vice President/Assistant General Manager.