Lynx deal F Houston to Phoenix

Feb 28, 2012 - 8:34 PM Minneapolis, MN (Sports Network) - The Minnesota Lynx have traded forward Charde Houston and the 24th overall selection in the 2012 draft to the Phoenix Mercury in exchange for the 18th overall pick in this year's draft.

A four-year veteran out of Connecticut, Houston was originally selected by the Lynx in the third round of the 2008 draft. She suffered a down year last year with career-lows of 2.9 points and 1.7 rebounds in 27 games.

In 128 career games (41 starts) with the Lynx, Houston has averaged 9.5 points and 3.9 rebounds.

"We are excited about adding Charde's unique skill set to our team," Mercury head Coach and general manager Corey Gaines said. "Her ability to run the floor, score the ball and hit the outside shot will be a perfect fit for our system."

The Lynx have six draft picks in the upcoming 2012 WNBA Draft, which will be held in April.

"Charde was an important part of our team the last four years," Lynx executive vice president Roger Griffith said. "She was able to positively impact our team, not only with her play on the court, but also with her personality off the court and with the fans.

"Charde has expressed an interest in getting more playing time, and hopefully this trade will give her a larger opportunity. We are appreciative of everything she has done for our organization and wish her the best in Phoenix."