Former OU Standout Courtney Paris Signs With Tulsa Shock

The Tulsa Shock's roster changes continue as Monday afternoon Head Coach Gary Kloppenburg announced the signing of former University of Oklahoma standout Courtney Paris.

Paris, a 6-foot-4 center was a four-time Associated Press All-American at OU averaging 19.9 points, 14.8 rebounds and 3.3 blocks during her career for the Sooners.

"Courtney is an inside power player with a soft touch around the rim and ability to score in the paint," Head Coach Gary Kloppenburg said. "She is an excellent rebounder at both ends of the floor and with hard work can develop into a solid inside presence for us."

The 24-year old from San Jose California was drafted in the third round of the 2012 NBA draft to the Atlanta Dream, but was waived after four games this season.

"It's nice to be able to play at home and be around such great fans," Paris said. "I've had such a great personal experience in Oklahoma. I love to play basketball and it also means a lot to me that I can do it in this state."

Paris had a decorated career at the University of Oklahoma where she established 20 NCAA Division I records including career rebounds (2,034) and career double-doubles (128).

Paris also earned a record three consecutive Big 12 Player of the Year awards and was a four-time member of the Big 12 All-Defensive team.

She averaged 3.4 points and 3.1 rebounds in 9.6 minutes a game for Atlanta.

"I'm hoping to be a good teammate both inside and outside the locker room," Paris said. "I hope to bring rebounding and an inside presence to this team and come out and play hard every night."

The Shock released 2012 third round pick Lynetta Kizer in order to make room for Paris on the 11 player roster.

Earlier on Monday, the Shock announced it re-signed guard Amber Holt.

06/18/12 Related Story: Tulsa Shock Re-Signs Amber Holt

Paris is expected to be in the lineup when the Shock take on the Los Angeles Sparks on Wednesday June 20 at the Staples Center.