CANADIAN HEROES
Stacey Dales-Schumann

Fri Apr 19 2002
CBS Online

Six days ago, the Brockville, Ont.-native got married to Chris Schuman, then Friday, she was chosen third overall by the Washington Mystics in the WNBA's draft, making her the highest-ever Canadian pick.

Dales-Schuman, a 6'0" all-American guard and Canadian national team standout, is coming off a sensational university career with the Oklahoma Sooners, where she was twice named the Big 12's player of the year.

Dales-Schuman led the Sooners to their first-ever NCAA final appearance, where they eventually lost to the undefeated University of Connecticut.

Known for her excellent ballhandling skills, her shooting ability, and intensity on the floor, Dales-Schuman was thrilled about the opportunity to play professional basketball.

"I just play wherever coach puts me, I like to go wherever I can and help out," Dales-Schuman told ESPN2 after being drafted. "That's the type of player I am. "I'm the player who wants to do what needs to be done. I'm excited."

Dales-Schuman, 22, who also played on Canada's Olympic team at the 2000 Sydney Games, topped Olympic teammate Tammy Sutton-Brown of Markham, Ont., who was drafted in the second round, 18th overall, in last year's draft. Sutton-Brown, a post player, had a successful rookie season with the Charlotte Sting, helping them to the WNBA final.

UConn point guard Sue Bird was selected first overall by the Seattle Storm, while the Detroit Shock selected UConn forward Swin Cash second. The Mystics chose yet another UConn player, 6'2" forward Asjha Jones, as the fourth overall pick.