The Sacramento Monarchs added two rookies to the 2003 team, two players who should make an immediate impact in the WNBA. Both are seasoned veterans to the game of basketball, and come to Sacramento highly decorated with numerous awards and honors achieved during their careers.

A 6-6 center from Vanderbilt University, Chantelle Anderson was the Monarchs first round draft pick (2nd overall). She finished her career with the Commodores as the programs all-time leading scorer (2,604), as well as finishing her career with a 65.1 field goal percentage (1020-1568) for another VU record.

The other new face is a 5-8 guard from Tennessee, Kara Lawson who was also a first round draft pick (5th overall), and acquired after a trade with the Detroit Shock for Kedra Holland-Corn. Lawson currently holds the Volunteers career mark for three-pointers made (256) and also holds the Tennessee career free throw percentage record (84.5).

Both Anderson and Lawson are enjoying their new team. “Everyone has made us feel welcome and have been very helpful,” says Lawson of her teammates. “It relieves the stress and uncertainty of the situation.” Anderson added, “Everyone is really nice, both on and off the court. The Monarchs have good people, and good players.”

Anderson and Lawson both agree that WNBA basketball is faster paced and more physical. “Everybody’s athletic (in the WNBA). In college, if you made a mistake you could make up for it later, now people make you pay.” Lawson elaborated, “The game is quicker, and there’s less room for errors. The players are smarter and will capitalize on the smallest mistake.”

The adjustment from college to professional basketball is like being a freshman all over again. However Lawson defiantly feels that playing at Tennessee has prepared her for the WNBA. “Coming from Tennessee, we played a tough schedule and had some big games. I’ve learned to play with confidence and that carries over to the next level,” stated Lawson. “I still have a lot to learn as a player and this is a great situation where I can practice and compete with veterans who I can learn from and improve my abilities.”

Additionally both Lawson and Anderson’s former college teams were members of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). “I’m used to playing in a physical conference,” says Anderson. “The footwork doesn’t change, however the game (WNBA) is played that much faster.”

With just a few games under the belts the two rookies have already made their presence known. Look for Anderson and Lawson to have remarkable first seasons en route to the Monarchs goal of a 2003 WNBA Championship.