WNBA Draft 2018 Presented by State Farm – April 12, 2018
Diamond DeShields, Chicago Sky – Round 1, Pick 3
First impression of Chicago?
DeShields: First of all, the location – I’m happy with that. I’m happy where I’m going. I already have a relationship with the head coach [Amber Stocks]. I’m looking forward to working with her and I’ve also gotten to know Gabby [Williams]. So, I think those are just my first impressions so far. I think I have a pretty good feeling for them and they have a pretty good feeling for me. So, I’m looking forward to it.
Can you go into a little more detail about your relationship with Coach Stocks?
DeShields: Amber actually came out to Turkey to come see me. Obviously, that meant a lot. Her being the only coach to take out the time and put the extra effort to come all the way out there. So, it meant a lot to me. Amber is actually my trainer’s sister-in-law. I didn’t know her prior to this year. So, that connection kind of just happened on its own.
How much did playing abroad help grow your game?
DeShields: It just gives you that chance for trial and error. I think I’ve been able to polish my game way more than I ever could have on the collegiate level. So, moving into this WNBA season this summer, I think I’ll come in way more prepared than I ever could have had I not done it this way.
Adding you and Gabby along with Stefanie Dolson, does it feel like pieces are falling in place in Chicago for you?
DeShields: It’s just nice to have super talented players at each position. You have Stefanie [Dolson], Gabby, Allie Quigley and Courtney Vandersloot at the point – incredible. I’m just looking forward to getting out and learning from those guys. Building that cohesiveness, I think that will lead to up to a lot of success in Chicago.
Has Coach Stocks spoken to you about the way you fit in that system?
DeShields: No, we haven’t talked about it. I think that she is kind of a mysterious kind of woman. Now that the door is wide open, we’ll have those conversations and get to know each other a lot better.