April 22, 1997

Stanford's Wideman Opts for WNBA, Starbird Eyeing ABL

PALO ALTO, Calif. - Stanford guard Jamila Wideman said Monday she will play in the Women's National Basketball Association, while Cardinal teammate Kate Starbird appeared headed for the rival American Basketball League.

Wideman agreed to a one-year contract with an option for a second year. The team she'll play for will be determined Monday during the WNBA's inaugural draft in Orlando, Fla.

During a conference call from Orlando, Wideman said she was persuaded to join the WNBA because it is backed by the NBA.

''You're talking about their ability to market, their television connections, their sponsorships. I think all these factors will create a kind of national presence and influence which will be able to push the women's game to that next level,'' she said.

The eight-team league begins play June 21. Meanwhile, Starbird was scheduled to appear Tuesday at the Space Needle in Seattle with representatives for the ABL and the Seattle Reign.

Starbird, Stanford's career scoring leader, reportedly signed a multiyear contract.

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