WNBA All-Star, Jessica Breland, has joined the Duke women’s basketball staff as an Operations Intern for the 2020-21 season.
Breland brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to Duke behind her nine years in the WNBA. Breland was originally drafted as the No. 13 overall pick of the 2011 WNBA draft by the Minnesota Lynx. Her resumes includes stops with the Connecticut Sun, New York Liberty, Indiana Fever, Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream. In 2014, Breland earned WNBA All-Star honors and made the WNBA First Team All-Defensive honors in 2018.
“Our program is thrilled to have a person of Bre’s character join us,” said Duke Head Coach Kara Lawson per release. “Her story is incredible. One of perseverance and focus. I was one of her vets when she came into the WNBA and I am proud of how her game continues to grow. She will be a powerful presence that our players can learn from daily.”
Breland is familiar with the Duke Blue Devils, as the six-foot-two forward is an arch-rival North Carolina grad. Following graduation, Duke Head Coach Kara Lawson and Breland were teammates during her rookie season with the Connecticut Sun in 2011.
“Nearly 10 years ago when I was a rookie in the WNBA, Kara was my vet and she took me under her wing,” said Breland. “She successfully went on to break countless barriers and opened closed doors in the sports and entertainment industry. Joining her staff at Duke is that full circle moment for me. I’m honored and excited to once again be under her historic leadership and experience for a second time.”
Duke is scheduled to tip off their 2020-21 season on Wednesday, November 25 when they play host to Longwood at 12:00pm ET.
