February 1, 2010 1:11 pm  |  9 Comments

Guest Post: Cappie Pondexter

Cappie fills us in on her offseason in Russia.

If you’re a basketball fan, you’re in for a treat.

Cappie Pondexter, quite simply, is one of the best women’s basketball players in the world. Commonly compared to Dwyane Wade of the NBA, Cappie’s skill set is nearly unmatched in the WNBA.

We were fortunate enough that Cappie was more than willing to catch us up on her time overseas in Russia. Cappie currently plays for UMMC Ekaterinburg with Candace Parker and Deanna Nolan. CP23 is averaging over 4 apg (7th in the Euroleague) while shooting over 60 percent from the floor.

Make sure to leave Cappie a comment, and follow her on Twitter.

by Cappie Pondexter

What’s up, world?!

First, I just wanted to say thank you to God for giving me my computer back and for allowing me to write my first blog. Second, I wanted to say thank you to all my dedicated fans. Thirdly, to my main man Ben York who is the best guy in the business to me. So, thank you!

Well, last week was very interesting for our team. We found out we qualified for the Final 8 in Euroleague action. Then, we found out we have to fly to Orenburg, Russia for the Russian Cup. We were surprised because we thought for sure we didn’t have to travel and the Cup games would be at our arena as it has been for the last four years. So, we arrive in Orenburg and it has to be the smallest airport I have ever been to — definitely different than our typical American airports. Nonetheless, I was glad we made it there safely.

We had a quick lunch and had to attend the earliest practice we’ve had all year on the road. Actually, it wasn’t too bad because we had the whole rest of the evening to ourselves. The only bad part, I guess, was it wasn’t a big tourist city and it was negative 35 degrees. But I’m used to the coldness in Russia and, being from Chicago, it’s nothing for lil’ ol’ CP23.

The next day comes and we have a 12 o’clock shoot-around, lunch and video right after. Our first opponent was the home town team from Orenburg. It was a good win for us and luckily we didn’t log heavy minutes because our next opponent was Spartak [Moscow Region].

That match was scheduled for 7 p.m. and, of course, our biggest rival in Russia to date. I’m sure you guys are familiar with their roster, right? Well, if not, I’ma break it down for you. Their point guard is Sue Burd, back-up point guard Kelly Miller, shooting guard Diana Taurasi, Janel McCarville and Sylvia Fowles – can you say ’stacked’?

Well, we won! It was a great game and came down to the last seconds. Spartak is always an exciting match-up and great competition. I’m sure we will face them another time down the road.

Next up for us are the Euroleague Playoffs which tips off for us tomorrow night against Galatasaray, a Turkish team, who just signed Tamika Catchings – long night ahead of us. It’s the best of three series. We worked hard enough to secure home court advantage so we will be home, then away, and then home again if necessary. I’m looking forward to our first match-up with them since the exit of Jia Perkins. I’m sure with “Catch” they will be a totally different team than in regular pool play. Don’t forget to tune in – it’s kind of early but it will be worth it. Check out fibaeurope.com at 9 a.m. EST.

In other news, I’m happy the WNBA season is soon approaching us, and I’m sure it’s gonna be a fantastic season. Every player is working hard and looking to win a WNBA Championship.

So, Valentine’s Day is approaching us and I’m taking all gifts. You can send them to US Airways Center and I will gladly accept them. Thanks in advance, LOL!

Well, it was nice chatting it up but I have to get my nap in before our next practice. Make sure you add me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, and visit me on my website.

Love y’all,
The N.E.R.D.