As we mentioned in the last update – Atlanta was hot on the heels of getting a WNBA franchise, and we’re glad to announce that it’s all confirmed!  Ron Terwilliger, a real estate executive, will be the sole owner of the franchise, bringing womens basketball back to Atlanta after nine years without it.  Un-named as of yet, Terwilliger laid out his long term plans, that include being a winning team by the third season, a playoff team by the fourth season, and a championship team by season 6, in 2014.  Atlanta will be a member of the Eastern Conference, which currently also hosts Chicago, Detroit, New York, Washington, Indiana and Connecticut.

To continue the big news, the WNBA also announced that it will be holding it’s draft lottery next week, on Tuesday October 23rd.  While the LA Sparks get the #1 pick, when the early lines come out next season, I’d be looking at the Minnesota Lynx as a good long-shot bet.  They have the #2 pick, and gained the #1 picks over the last two years, Seimone Augustus and Lindsay Harding.  This #2 pick will bolster their ever-improving team, and I expect to see them make a challenge next season.  The lottery will take place in New York City.