FORMER WBL PLAYER RECEIVES POLLIN AWARD
Mariah Burton Nelson Honored at July 30th Game

Washington, D.C. – In the Washington Mystics continuing effort to recognize inspiring individuals, the team will present Mariah Burton Nelson with the Pollin Award during the Mystics game at MCI Center on July 30th at 7:00 p.m.

Nelson is a former player in the United States’ first professional women’s basketball league, the WBL which existed from 1978-81. During her time in the WBL, she played for the New Jersey Gems. Nelson also played professionally in France during her career. A graduate of Stanford University, Nelson was the Cardinal’s leading scorer and rebounder all four years of her collegiate career.

“Mariah Burton Nelson stands as a wonderful example not only to our fans but to our players as well,” said Mystics Sr. Vice President of Business and Basketball operations Judy Holland Burton. “She, and her fellow WBL athletes, helped pave the way for the women playing professional sports today.”

Since completing her basketball career, Nelson has become an accomplished motivational speaker and author. She has penned five books, her latest of which is entitled We Are All Athletes. She is a past-president of the Washington, D.C. chapter of the National Speakers Association and her work has been featured on the Today Show, Good Morning America, Dateline, Nightline and numerous other media outlets.

The Pollin Award was created to honor individuals who have made an outstanding impact on their community. Pollin Award winners are positive roles models that serve to inspire through their work and actions.

For more information on Mariah Burton Nelson, log on to her web site www.MariahBurtonNelson.com.

For additional media information, please contact Ketsia Colimon or Nicole Boden in the Mystics Public Relations Office at 202-661-5000.