Lynx sign 2012 Brazilian first-rounder Dantas

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Lynx have decided it's time to give one of their top selections from 2012 a shot.

The defending WNBA champs announced Wednesday they've signed center Damiris Dantas. Minnesota originally selected the 21-year-old Brazilian in the first round (12th overall) of the 2012 draft.

Minnesota also selected forward Devereaux Peters in the 2012 draft with the third overall pick.

Just like NBA teams do with some of their prospects, the Lynx allowed Dantas to keep developing overseas while retaining her draft rights. She plays in the Brazilian League this year and has appeared in 15 games, averaging 12.1 points and 6.5 rebounds per game.

The 6-foot-4 center brings international experience, too. In addition to playing in the 2012 London Olympics, she helped the Brazilian women's national team to a gold medal at the 2011 FIBA Americas championship and a bronze in 2013.

If she makes it through training camp this spring, she'll add some valuable depth to the frontcourt behind Janel McCarville. The 31-year-old University of Minnesota graduate re-signed with the Lynx last month, but they're thin at center behind her.

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