ROOKIES

I

The Draft

"And for the number one pick of the 2020 WNBA draft, the Minnesota Lynx select Melanie Windsor!"

Melanie smiled as she stood up, hugging her family and coaches. She walked up the steps of the stairs, accepting the jersey from the kind announcer. She smiled for the photos, hugging the announcer and heading off stage for her first interview.

"Melanie! How does it feel to be the first pick in the 2020 WNBA draft?" the interviewer spoke. "It feels great. Better than great. I've worked so hard for this moment, since I was a kid. It's nice to feel like my hard work paid off. It's unbelievable that i'm standing here right now." Melanie spoke.

This moment was surreal to her. She had spent her whole life playing basketball, working towards the goal of someday going pro, framing of being able to stand among the greats of women's basketball. Now here she was, the first pick of the 2020 WNBA draft.

"How do you feel about your new team?" said the interviewer. "I'm excited. Excited to work on my game with amazing new teammates on the next level. It's amazing that I get to play with and against women i've looked up to since I was younger." spoke Melanie.

"And what do you think about the comparisons to Anthony Edwards? They're saying you're the female version of him, as you've both been the first pick of your collective drafts. Not only this but you were both drafted to the same city!" said the interviewer.

"I'm flattered by the comparisons. Anthony is an amazing player, i've seen his game and what he does. He's on another level. I look forward to seeing what he does on this level of basketball. As for the female version of him statements, i'd like to be my own player. No comparisons. I've worked to be here, and so has he. So the comparisons are unnecessary." said Melanie.

She spoke truthfully. Anthony Edwards was an amazing player. She'd seen what he'd done throughout college and was excited to see what he'd do on the next level. But she didn't want the comparisons. Just like how he got compared to MJ all the time. She didn't want that. She wanted to be her own unique player, and stand out through her own achievements.

"Is there anything you'd like to say to the aspiring female and male athletes out there?" said the interviewer. "To keep chasing your dream, whatever it is. Don't let anyone stop you. Prove everyone wrong. Show them you're able to do what you love, what you want on any level." said Melanie.

The interviewer smiled. He asked her further questions about her family, and her background. "I grew up in Atlanta. My childhood was tough, but my dad always made it work. My mom wasn't a part of my life. But that didn't stop me. I kept going. Basketball motivated me. I knew I needed to make it out the hood. For me, and for my family." spoke Melanie.

She smiled as she further talked about her father. She didn't think she could've made it this far without him. "Thank you for your time Melanie! And congratulations again."

Melanie smiled, thanking them as well before sitting down and watching the rest of the draft. Sabrina Ionescu went 2nd, and Satou Sabally went 3rd. It was expected. She was proud to be drafted with these amazing women.

She pulled her phone out. Overwhelming congrats filled her messages and inboxes everywhere. One particular message on Instagram stood out to her.

theanthonyedwards_

Congratulations. I've seen what you do, your games amazing.