Northwestern basketball star Veronica Burton had quite the night on Monday, as she was selected seventh overall by the Dallas Wings during Monday night’s WNBA draft. That wasn’t the only surprise she received.
The Newton, Massachusetts native received a phone call from Tom Brady, congratulating her on being drafted. Burton’s father, Steve is a sports reporter for WBZ-TV. Her brother Austin currently plays quarterback for Purdue.
Veronica had a successful college career at Northwestern. She was named the 2020-21 Big 10 Defensive Player of the Year, and ended her Northwestern career as the four-time Big Ten steals leader.
Brady made sure to do his research prior to the call.
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“Hey, Veronica, what’s up? I just wanted to congratulate you on being drafted,” Brady said on the call. “The four-time Big Ten steals leader, I know you’re a finalist for the Nancy Lieberman Award, an All-American, and now you’re in the WNBA. Congrats to you.
“I know the Burton family very well. I’ve known your dad for a long time, your brother [Austin],” Brady continued. “Just know that I’m always cheering you from afar and I wish you the best of luck. You had an amazing career and we know you embody everything about the spirit of community. It will take you a long way in life, it will take you a long way in your basketball career and it will take you a long way in your family.”
Brady is set to embark on his 23rd season in the National Football League, as he rejoined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in March. Burton will have time to prepare for her first season, as the Wings will take on the Atlanta Dream on Saturday, May 7 to open the year.
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