Westbrook bounces back into the WNBA

Salem native signs a hardship contract with the Minnesota Lynx

When I talked with Evina Westbrook over Mother’s Day Weekend, she had plans to compete in the USA Basketball 3 on 3 tournament in Springfield, Massachusetts. But in less than a week, she went from a waived player looking for alternative forms of competition, to WNBA player—again. Westbrook signed with the Minnesota Lynx, according to a statement released today by the team. She had been in Massachusetts at the beginning of the week, and traveled to Minnesota Wednesday.

Westbrook—the former South Salem High and UConn basketball standout—was waived last week by the Seattle Storm after being selected 21st in the WNBA Draft.  Her release was criticized by Seattle players upset with what they described as overly strict league salary cap rules.

Terms of the deal with Minnesota were not disclosed, but the 6-foot Westbrook will be available to play for the Lynx as soon as possible.  Minnesota returns home to host the Chicago Sky on Saturday at the Target Center.  The Lynx are still looking for their first league victory, and are currently 0-3.

Of note:  Evina will wear the number 2 for the Lynx.