AUBURN HILLS, MI - Detroit Shock Vice President of Operations Kristin Bernert announced today that Shock forward Barbara Farris has been named Palace Sports & Entertainment Employee of the Year for the Detroit Shock department, marking the first time a player has ever received the honor. The award goes to the Shock employee who displays the deepest commitment and hardest work ethic throughout the year. Farris is currently playing professionally in Spain and will return prior to Shock training camp in April. Shock Head Coach Bill Laimbeer presented the award to Cheryl Ford, who accepted on Farris’ behalf, at the Palace Sports & Entertainment Employee Appreciation Dinner on Monday, March 14 at the Palace Grille.

“It's such a pleasure to work with such a dynamic group of people. I am thankful to be a part of the many initiatives the Shock and Pistons have instituted to positively impact the development of young people, especially young women,” said Farris in a statement from Spain. “Mentoring young people and participating in community programs has further demonstrated the Shock's commitment to the community. Again, I'm thankful and proud to be a part of this organization, and honored to be selected 2004 Detroit Shock Employee of the Year.”

Farris, entering her sixth WNBA season, has spent her entire WNBA career with the Shock. She not only contributed greatly on the court in 2004, matching her career best 4.5 points per game in 16.2 minutes per contest, but she was also a key leader in the Shock organization. Farris is a favorite of fellow players, business staff, fans and media. She helped the Shock complete over 200 community appearances in 2004, doing nearly 80 of them herself in the months of October, November and December. She was honored during the 2004 NBA Finals with the WNBA Community Assist Award and also captured the 2004 Detroit Sports Fans Choice Humanitarian Award.