Marion Jones Becomes Newest Member of the WNBA

We know she can run, but can she play?

Marion Jones, once known as the world’s fastest woman, is hoping to revitalize her career by joining the WNBA’s Tulsa Shock.  And redemption for Jones could be possible with the franchise; the team is expected to compete this season for the championship after being eliminated by the Indiana Fever during last year’s conference finals. 

Jones’ fabled career on the track came to a screeching halt after she admitted in 2008 to using steroids during the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney.  As a result, she was stripped of her five medals (3 gold), and was also sentenced to six months in a Texas Federal prison for lying about her use of the steroid known as “clear.”

Shock President Steve Swetoha appeared to be 100 percent behind his new player.  "She made some ill-advised decisions in the past, but everyone deserves a second chance to excel at something they love," Swetoha told the AP Wednesday. "The city of Tulsa gave a struggling franchise from Detroit a second chance, and I'm confident it will do the same for Marion. We couldn't be happier to have her on board."

The Tulsa Shock, formerly known as the Detroit Shock, relocated to Tulsa in 2009 after their comeback season valiantly came to an end in the finals.  Heading into the all star break the team was in last place, but they fought their way back during the second half to eventually win a spot in the playoffs.  

But, can a track star make the transition to basketball? 

A little known fact about Jones is that in addition to excelling on the track, she was also the starting point guard during North Carolina’s run to the women’s national championship in 1994.

Also, she is no stranger to the WNBA.  Jones was drafted by the Phoenix Mercury in 2003 but never played in the league. 

Tulsa opens its season at home against the Minnesota Lynx on May 15 at 8:00PM ET.   

Get more sports and other lesbian culture from Leslie here!

Follow SheWired on Twitter!