Former Howard University standout Andrea Gardner has made the 2008 Washington Mystics squad.

Gardner, a 2002 graduate of Howard University, was drafted by the Utah Starzz in the second round of the 2002 WNBA draft. She was signed as a free agent by the Seattle Storm in 2004 and was playing professionally overseas before being signed by the Mystics.

Gardner had a stellar career at Howard University. The 6-3 native of Washington, DC was a two-time MEAC Player of the Year in 2001 and 2002. She led the nation in rebounding (14.2) and in double doubles in 2000-01.

Gardner ranks third all-time on the school rebounding list (1,080) and sixth in scoring (1,353). She is only the third player in the school’s storied women’s basketball history to record 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds.

During her first season at Howard, Gardner was the subject of a case study by the Washington Post on student athletes who were partial qualifiers under Proposition 48. She proved to be successful in fulfilling her requirements by graduating in four years, thus earning an additional year of eligibility. She decided to forego her senior year and enter the draft.

The Mystics open the 2008 regular season on Saturday, May 17 on the road against the Indiana Fever at 7 pm. The first home game is Sunday, May 25 against the Houston Comets at 4 pm at the Verizon Center.

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