SACRAMENTO, Calif., May 20, 2003 --The Sacramento Monarchs today announced that the organization has waived center, Kara Wolters.

The 6’7” center has been a member of the Monarchs since the 2001 season when she was traded from Indiana for the 14th overall pick in the 2001 WNBA Draft. Known to her fans as “Big Girl,” Wolters won a WNBA Championship while with the Houston Comets in 1999 and was a member of the 2000 U.S. Women’s National Team that won a gold medal in the Sydney Olympics. In her four-year WNBA career, Wolters averages 50 percent in field goal shooting, 75 percent in free throw shooting, 3.2 rebounds per game, and 6.5 points per game.

“We wish Kara the best,” said Monarchs General Manager, Jerry Reynolds. “She has been a solid team member over the past two years and she will be missed. Determining our final roster has been very difficult this year, due to the depth that has been added to this team, but ultimately, it is what will make the Monarchs stronger.”

While the Monarchs have lost experience with the release of Wolters, the team has been infused with some new young talent to fill the gap. In only two preseason games, the Monarchs newest players are already ranked amongst the best performers in the league. Making herself known, DeMya Walker earned a seventh place ranking for most blocks in the league (3.0) and 14th place for defensive rebounds per game in the league (4.0).

In limited playing time, Chantelle Anderson was able to contribute to the team, earning her a 14th place ranking in the WNBA in blocks per game (1.0). Kara Lawson is ranked third in the WNBA in three-point field goals per 40 minutes (4.29), 10th in three-point field goals made (3.0) and 12th in points per 40 minutes (21.4). Combining this new talent with the remaining veterans on the Monarchs roster will make for a team deep with playing ability.

The Sacramento Monarchs will play their first of 17 home games against the Phoenix Mercury on Opening Night, Friday, May 30, at 7 p.m. at ARCO Arena. Sacramento’s regular season will begin on the road on Thursday, May 22, at the Phoenix Mercury at 7 p.m. at America West Arena. Opening Night tickets are going fast and fans are asked to call (916) 419-WNBA for information about tickets.