How much proof does one need that Yolanda Griffith is the most valuable player to her team? The league's MVP and top rebounder last season suffered torn cartilage in her right knee late last season, and Sacramento lost its last four games without her, including a playoff exit against Los Angeles. She and Latasha Byears form a formidable frontcourt that is the key for the Monarchs as they look to take the next step toward a championship.

Sacramento possesses the most exciting point guard in the league in Ticha Penicheiro and also a fearless competitor in Kedra Holland-Corn. The Monarchs did not help themselves in a weak draft, but they have the tools to make another serious playoff run.

The basics

Coach: Sonny Allen, second year, former head men's coach at Old Dominion, Southern Methodist and Nevada-Reno

1999 finish: 19-13, third in Western Conference

Arena: ARCO Arena

Average home attendance: 8,626

Story Lines

Salaries for WNBA players lag far behind their NBA counterparts and players are getting tired of the discrepancy. After her MVP season a year ago, Yolanda Griffith challenged the league and won. Griffith signed a two-year deal worth a reported $100,000 per season, making her one of the league's five highest-paid players. Will other top stars follow Griffith's lead?

Sacramento tried to get Griffith some frontcourt help in the WNBA Draft by selecting 6-foot forward Katy Steding in the first round. Steding has a nice touch around the basket and could be a option if teams try to double-team Griffith.

Players to watch

Yolanda Griffith: The WNBA's MVP, defender of the year and newcomer of the year last season.

Ruthie Bolton-Holifield: The lingering effects of a 1998 knee injury hampered her play last year, but Bolton-Holifield was still one of the league's top scorers. Is expected to come back stronger this season.

Games to watch

June 11 vs. Los Angeles, 3 p.m.: Early matchup of Western Conference contenders.

July 30 at Phoenix 4 p.m.: How will Griffith & Co. fair against new-look Mercury?

Aug. 6 vs. Houston 4 p.m.: Possible preview of Western Conference Finals.

What you didn't know

The Monarchs and Kings are building a new state-of-the-art training facility. The $8 million, 38,500-square-foot facility is being built adjacent to ARCO Arena and should be completed for next season.

Copyright © 2001 CNN/Sports Illustrated An AOL Time Warner Company. All Rights Reserved. Terms under which this service is provided to you. Read our privacy guidelines.