The Storm is at a final 11-player roster to start the 2011 season after waiving guard Sharnee Zoll yesterday. With reserves Katie Smith (left Achilles tendinitis) and Belinda Snell (sprained left ankle) working their way back to the lineup after injuries, Head Coach Brian Agler felt the depth in the post provided by rookie    Krystal Thomas (right) would be more valuable to the Storm at this point. Thomas gives the team five post players, a typical distribution for WNBA rosters.

“I think you have to have five,” said Agler, “but we’ll evaluate our roster as the season goes on.”

Thomas, the last player selected in the April WNBA Draft, joins Takeisha Lewis (2002) and Kimberly Beck (2008) as third-round picks to make the Storm’s roster. She’s impressed the coaching staff during training camp.

“Very intelligent player,” Agler said. “Communicates well. Good rebounder, good defender. Executes the offense, executes the defense – real sharp on the floor. Good length, good athlete.”

Despite making progress, Snell is still unlikely to play in tomorrow’s season opener against the Phoenix Mercury (TIX). Smith, however, will be available “for sure” after ramping up her activity all week.

As far as Smith’s minutes, Agler said, “I think she’ll have to give us whatever we need, whatever that is.”