Beard signs new deal with Mystics

Feb 25, 2008 - 8:49 PM WASHINGTON (Ticker) -- Three-time WNBA All-Star guard Alana Beard on Monday signed a four-year contract with the Washington Mystics.

Beard has excelled for the Mystics since being selected with the second overall pick in the 2004 draft and was named to each of the last three All-Star games in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

"We are thrilled to be able to sign Alana to a long-term contract," Mystics general manager Linda Hargrove said. "She has made her impact felt ever since her rookie season as she led the Mystics to the playoffs and has been an intricate part of our franchise since the day she was selected in the draft.

"Her commitment and leadership will be instrumental as we strive to win a championship."

The 5-11 Beard averaged 18.8 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.0 assists in 2007.