Shock Pick Up WNBA Veterans In Three Team Trade

The Tulsa Shock picked up guard Candice Wiggins and forward Nicole Powell in multiple trades with the Minnesota Lynx and New York Liberty, announced Friday.

Tulsa traded their 2014 second round draft pick to the Minnesota Lynx in exchange for Wiggins and picked up Powell from the Liberty in exchange for the Shock's second and third round pick in the 2013 draft.

The Tulsa Shock also assigned the negotiating rights for Deanna Nolan to the New York Liberty in exchange for their third round pick in the 2013 draft. New York will select at 27 and Tulsa at 29 in the third round. Nolan has not played in the WNBA since 2009.

"Candice and Nicole are going to have a huge impact on and off the court with our team heading into the 2013 season," Shock President Steve Swetoha said. "We are truly excited and thrilled to add two solid veterans and leaders to our organization. These are two strong pieces in building a championship team. We have a plan for our organization and we couldn't be more excited for the direction we are going"

"We are absolutely elated to be able to add these two veteran guards to the Tulsa Shock," Shock head coach Gary Kloppenburg said. "Both have been on WNBA championship teams and bring a wealth of experience, knowledge and skill to our young team. They are consummate professionals who are constantly working to improve their game. Their veteran leadership and competitive drive to win will help lead this Shock team toward our ultimate goal of winning a WNBA championship."

In 2012, Wiggins averaged 6.8 points per game and 21.8 minutes played. She had season highs against Tulsa on July 10 with 25 points, eight field goals made and a career-high six three pointers made. Wiggins was the third overall pick in the 2008 draft. In her rookie season, she averaged 15.7 points per game and 27.5 minutes per game.

"I'm so excited to play in Tulsa," Wiggins said. "I want to thank the city of Minneapolis for all it's given me. I want to thank the coaches, the players, the fans and people of Minnesota for their support. Tulsa is a warm place and I have always loved playing in the BOK Center. I'm excited be a part of this organization. I want to thank Tulsa for this golden opportunity for me to bring my talent to this righteous city."

Powell averaged 7.0 points per game, grabbed 4.3 rebounds per game and 27.1 minutes played. In 2004, Powell was drafted third overall by the Charlotte Sting. In 2005, with the Sacramento Monarchs, Powell won the WNBA Championship and was awarded the WNBA's Most Improved Player. Powell was an All-Star selection in 2009.

"We are thrilled that Nicole has this opportunity to be a part of the great future in Tulsa," Powell's agent said. "She is excited to bring leadership and to do whatever coach asks of her. She can't wait to be a part of the Tulsa family and meet the tremendous Tulsa fans!"

The Shock's home opener will be May 27 against the Washington Mystics at the BOK Center.