SACRAMENTO, CALIF. Mar. 3, 2008 – The Sacramento Monarchs today announced the signing of 2007 WNBA All-Star forward Rebekkah Brunson and 2005 WNBA Most Improved Player, forward Nicole Powell, each to four-year contracts with the franchise. Per company policy, terms of the contracts were not disclosed.

“We feel that Brunson and Powell are one of, if not the best 3-4 forward combinations in the WNBA,” said Sacramento Monarchs General Manager John Whisenant. “Powell is a great three-point shooter, while Brunson is a rebounding power forward. By signing these two we not only build on our future, but we’ll be able to compete with the very best in the WNBA.”

Rebekkah Brunson Garrett Ellwood NBAE/Getty Images

Brunson was selected by the Monarchs in the first round (10th overall) of the 2004 WNBA Draft. Starting 29 of 33 games in 2007, Brunson had a stellar season averaging 11.5 points, 8.9 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. She finished the 2007 season ranked first in the WNBA in offensive rebounds per game (3.9), second in rebounds per game (8.9), second in total rebounds (295) and second in double-doubles (10). Through four seasons with the team she’s averaging 7.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.5 blocks per game.

“I am blessed that Whiz and Jenny have the confidence in me as a player and a person to sign me to an extended contract. I am excited about remaining with the Monarchs organization and staying in Sacramento. I think we have a young and talented team, as well as exceptional fans, and look forward to being a part of another competitive season in Sacramento,” added Brunson.

Nicole Powell Rocky Widner NBAE/Getty Images

Powell was originally selected by the Charlotte Sting in the first round (third overall) of the 2004 WNBA Draft and she was acquired by Sacramento in a trade prior to the start of the Monarchs 2005 Championship season. Powell led the Monarchs in scoring for the 2007 season (12.8 points per game). Powell finished the 2007 season ranked first in the WNBA in free-throw percentage (96.4%) and sixth in three-pointers made (62). Through her four-year career she is averaging 9.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.1 steals and 0.3 blocks per game.

The Monarchs will open their 12th WNBA season on May 17, at ARCO Arena, at 7 p.m. PDT, as they take on their 2007 WNBA Playoff first round opponent, the San Antonio Silver Stars.

The 2008 WNBA Draft will be held on April 9, at 11 a.m. PDT and televised LIVE on ESPN2. Sacramento currently holds the 10th overall pick (First Round) in the upcoming Draft and three third round selections (38th, 40th and 43rdoverall).

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