Brunson Excited for New Opportunity
Cheryl Reeve reacts to Brunson acquisitonQ: How did you find out the Maloofs (owners of the Sacramento Monarchs) were shutting down the Monarchs and what were your initial reactions?
Brunson: "I got my first idea that the Monarchs were shutting down by checking a tweet; Not exactly the way you want to find out that your family is being separated, but that comes with mass media and micro-blogging. I was shocked at the revelation, never having imagined that the Monarchs would fold; Not even knowing that we were in any trouble. But it was out of my hands. There was nothing I could do about it, so I patiently waited to see what God had in store for me."
Q: At that point, did you still hold out hope that the Bay Area investors would come through so the Monarchs could go on?
Brunson: "I would have loved for things to work out in a way that would allow the Monarchs to continue in the Bay area, but considering the timing I didn't get my hopes set too high on the move happening."
Q: When news broke that the WNBA would seek to add a team to the Bay Area for the 2011 season, meaning there would be a Dispersal Draft involving Monarchs players, you knew at that point you were probably headed to either the Liberty or Lynx. Are you excited for this new opportunity?
Brunson: "I am definitely excited about a new opportunity."
Q: You’re coming to a great situation in Minnesota. With some of the things that have happened this winter, the Lynx are clearly a team on the rise. How do you feel about potentially being the elder statesmen on a younger team that’s hungry for postseason ball? Brunson: "I am ready for this role. I think that the Lynx are a very young and talented team that is ready to win and get into the post season and make a statement. With Seimone being injured last season, the other players had an opportunity to step up and grow. But with her return this is a very complete team. I am happy to be able to be a part of this unit and lead by example as we reach postseason play."
Q: Is the leadership role a role that you enjoy? What type of leader would you say you are - Lead by example, vocal, etc…
Brunson: "I lead by example. I am a hard worker and will push my teammates in practice. But I am ready to step into a more vocal leadership role."
Q: What do you know about the Lynx’ current roster? What have you heard about new head coach Cheryl Reeve?
Brunson: "I know the Lynx are a very talented team. They are hungry and want to win. I played with Seimone in Moscow three seasons ago and had the chance to play with Candice a bit with USA Women's Basketball. I know that Cheryl has been around for a substantial amount of time. She was with the Shock while they had their very successful run. I think that she has a lot to add to the Lynx and I am excited to learn as much as I can from her."
Q: What would you say your biggest asset on the court is?
Brunson: "I'm a good athlete and a competitor that wants to win. I'm also a good teammate that will mix well with the pieces that are already there. In Sacramento we had great locker room chemistry and I hope that I can bring that attitude to the locker room in Minnesota. I'm sure they all are a great bunch of women and I am excited to join them."
Q: Did you like coming to Minnesota with the Monarchs? What do you know about the city?
Brunson: "Minneapolis is a beautiful city. I enjoyed coming there with the Monarchs. I am sure that I will fall in love with the city and the fans instantly."
Q: I’m sure you get this question a lot, but how is your health right now? You’ve had a history with injuries, but you’re playing well overseas right now. How is everything holding up?
Brunson: "Right now everything is holding up great. I am in good health and good spirits and ready to begin my new journey as a member of the Lynx."
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