The Miracle shocked everyone in their maiden season last year as they almost made the playoffs, missing out on a tiebreaker. Orlando needed height up front and with the fourth pick took 6-4 Cintia Dos Santos, who becomes the team's tallest player ever.

Taj McWilliams is a factor every time she steps onto the court and Jannon Roland should be one of the team's first players off the bench. Shannon Johnson was Orlando's leading scorer at point guard last year and was named second-team All-WNBA. Nykesha Sales is showing no ill effects from her torn Achilles' tendon two years ago and fellow Big East Conference product Shawnetta Stewart also will a huge role at guard. Despite a five-game winning streak late last season that almost vaulted Orlando into the playoffs, the Miracle must show the ability to put away teams if they hope to secure a postseason bid this year.

The basics

Coach: Carolyn Peck, second year, former Purdue head coach

1999 finish: 15-17, tied for 2nd in Eastern Conference

Arena: TD Waterhouse Center

Average home attendance: 9,801

Story Lines

The Miracle lost three post players from last season. Andrea Congreaves didn't return to the WNBA, and Yolanda Moore and Tari Phillips were taken in the expansion draft.

Nykesha Sales, Connecticut's career leading scorer, has yet to return to the dominating form she had in college. Orlando will need the 6-foot guard to become more consistent.

Players to watch

Taj Williams: Averaged 13.9 points at center last season. This year should be able to move to her more natural spot at forward.

Cinta Dos Santos: The Miracle's first-round draft pick fit right in at training camp. The 6-5 center from Brazil will be counted on to rebound and block shots.

Games to watch

June 1 vs. Charlotte, 7:30 p.m.: Last season these teams fought to make it to the playoffs.

June 28 vs. Miami, 7:30 p.m.: This should develop into a rivalry.

What you didn't know

Guard Romana Hamzova of the Czech Republic is a biology teacher when she isn't playing basketball.

Sports Ticker contributed to this report.

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