-- Seattle Storm Guard Receives $5,000 donation for her Lennox Foundation 22 --

NEW YORK, August 11, 2006 – In recognition of Seattle Storm Guard Betty Lennox’s commitment to the community, the WNBA today honored her with the Community Assist Award for June.  Lennox actively works with youth development programs and child welfare organizations in the Seattle area through Storm community outreach initiatives and her own charity organization, The Lennox Foundation 22. 

On June 5, Lennox and the Storm hosted a WNBA Be Fit-Be Smart-Be Yourself clinic for young Girl Scouts from the Totem Council at the Storm’s practice facility, the Furtado Center.  Along with Storm teammates, Janell Burse, Tiffani Johnson and Edwige Lawson, Lennox worked with over 50 girls, ages 5-17, on developing techniques that improve the body, mind and athletic performance.  As spokesperson for the Be Smart-Be-Fit-Be Yourself program, Lennox spent time with the girls, teaching them the importance of fitness, nutrition and positive self-esteem.

“Betty has truly embraced her role as the team’s Be Smart – Be Fit – Be Yourself spokesperson,” said Dallas Pride, Community Relations Coordinator for the Seattle Storm.  “She receives tons of letters from parents thanking her for getting their kids excited about fitness and nutrition.”

Lennox also dedicates countless hours to her Lennox Foundation 22 which provides neglected and abused kids an opportunity to experience life in a different way by giving them support, love, education and self motivation through basketball.  The organization conducts basketball clinics throughout the state of Washington and raises funds for foster homes, young women’s community groups and poverty stricken schools in the inner cities.

"This is a big award as I do spend a lot of time in the community," said Seattle Storm guard Betty Lennox. "I know how important it is to give back to kids and the community and to be recognized for it is great."

The WNBA Community Assist Award is presented monthly to the player who best reflects the league’s passion for making a difference in the community.  In recognition of the recipient’s charitable efforts, the WNBA is donating $5,000 to the organization of her choice, the Lennox Foundation 22.  A special ceremony will be held at the Seattle Storm’s first home playoff game to officially present Lennox with the honor.

About WNBA Cares

Through WNBA Cares, the WNBA is deeply committed to creating programs that improve the quality of life for all people, with a special emphasis on promoting a healthy lifestyle and positive body image, breast health awareness, youth and family development, and education.

WNBA Cares is a part of NBA Cares, an initiative through which the league, its players and teams will raise and contribute $100 million for charity, donate more than 1 million hours of hands-on volunteer service to communities worldwide, and build more than 100 places where kids can learn and play over the next five years.