Venus Williams, Serena Williams, John McEnroe, Martina Hingis in WTT Draft

World TeamTennis, whose eight teams compete in a team format in July, today held its Marquee player draft, covering the top stars assigned to each team.  For 36 years, Billie Jean King has promoted this fan-friendly atmosphere and helped attract the sport's biggest names, past and present.

The draft had a decidedly American feel today, with former No. 1's up and down the board.  Serena Williams and Venus Williams, who helped the Washington Kastles to an unbeaten 2011 en route to the WTT Championship, were protected in the 1st and 2nd round, respectively, by Washington. 

John McEnroe and Martina Hingis were retained by the New York Sportimes, 2010 Eastern Conference Champions.  Lindsay Davenport was a first-round pick of the Orange County Breakers and is scheduled to make her first appearance on the WTT courts since the birth of her third child in January.

"I am excited to be back in Orange County and it will be great for my kids to get to see me play," said Davenport in a statement.  "I have always loved playing on a team so I am looking forward to getting back on the court."

Other top American standouts selected include John Isner (Boston Lobsters, 2nd round), fresh off his win over Roger Federer in Davis Cup last weekend; James Blake (Philadelphia Freedoms, 2nd round), Bob and Mike Bryan (Kansas City Explorers, 1st round) and Mardy Fish (Sacramento Capitals, 1st round).

Mark Philippoussis of Australia (and fleeting U.S. reality show fame) was the first overall pick, by Philadelphia.

The remaining roster spots will be filled with other current ATP and WTA Tour players during the WTT Roster Draft on March 13.