One-on-One with Nolan Richardson and Marion Jones

Originally Published: Mar 30, 2010 9:44 PM CDT

Gerald Goodridge
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

OKLAHOMA CITY -- When Nolan Richardson was announced as the general manager and head coach of the Tulsa Shock, many wondered if his “40 Minutes of Hell” would translate to the women’s game.

“The game doesn’t really change, attitudes do,” said Richardson. “We want to be a pressure defensive basketball team and an attack basketball team on the offensive end.”

The biggest splash the squad has made in its five-month existence was the signing of former “Fastest Woman in the World” Marion Jones.

Jones was part of a National Championship team at North Carolina, but gave up basketball in 1996 to concentrate on track and field. Picking up basketball after a 14-year gap has been difficult for the Olympic gold medalist.

“It certainly is a challenge,” said Jones. “I’m 34 years old, but I am extremely fit. I’ve been training with some of the top coaches in the league and I feel like I’ll be able to play.”

Despite being honored by her alma mater, Jones is excited about getting to play under another Hall of Fame coach.

“I’m looking forward to playing for Coach Richardson,” said Jones. “People that know the game know that he’s quite the competitor. When he assembles a team they’re going to be ready to run and have an exciting style of basketball.”

The Shock tip off May 15 against the Minnesota Wild, and Richardson wants to make a statement from the opening minutes.

“When a team comes in to Tulsa, they know you better hook them up because the Shock is coming after you,” said Richardson.