Cambage To Return To Tulsa Shock For 2013 Season

The Tulsa Shock has announced center Elizabeth Cambage will be returning to Tulsa for the 2013 season. Cambage had previously stated that she would not be returning this season. Cambage is expected to be in Tulsa the middle of next week.

Cambage missed the 2012 season due to her commitment to the Australian Olympic Team where she earned a bronze medal. During the 2012 London Olympics she became the first woman in history to dunk during the tournament.

"I am really looking forward to returning to Tulsa and the WNBA this season," Cambage said. "I am most looking forward to working with coach Kloppenburg as I have heard many great things about his coaching ability and getting the best out of his players. I wasn't sure that I would be able to return to Tulsa this season as I sustained a broken wrist while playing in China this past season. I have been given the all clear by my doctors and I am excited to return to Tulsa and the team for a great season."

In the 2012 off-season Cambage played in China for Zhejiang where she averaged 36.2 points per game and 11.1 rebounds per game. Cambage earned her season-high 59 points, going 22 of 24 from the field and hitting 15 of 16 free throws, on January 1, 2013 in a 115-101 victory over Shenyang.

"Our goal has always been for Liz to play in Tulsa and we are thrilled that she has decided to return," Shock President Steve Swetoha said. "She has never played under coach Kloppenburg and I know Gary is excited to get a chance to work with her. Gary and I continued to keep the lines of communications open with Liz, her agent and family to return to Tulsa."

In 2011, Cambage averaged 11.5 points per game and 4.7 rebounds per game. Cambage also was named a 2011 WNBA All-Star and earned All-Rookie Team honors.

"We're absolutely elated that Liz has decided to return to the Tulsa Shock this season and play in the WNBA," Shock coach Gary Kloppenburg said. "She'll be a great addition to what is shaping up to be a quality young team."

The Shock's home opener will be on Monday, Memorial Day May 27th against the Washington Mystics at the BOK Center at 2 p.m. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN2.