There is no doubt that I have been critical of this team and some of the coaching decisions in the first "third" of the season. I have to thank several of our posters who constantly remind us that for the most part we are playing a bunch of Freshmen and Sophomores, going against some good veteran teams. With the exception of the second half against Duke, our youngsters have played with grit and determination, and with a few lucky breaks, could have three more wins under their belts.
With that being said, I got to see probably the best performance as a team, since the Washington game. I liked what Sherri said in her post game. This team would ride a wave to its crest, on the verge of breaking the game open, only to struggle on multiple possessions. The first 16 mins. the kids only committed 4 turnovers, the next 10 they had 10. Silly bounce passes at team mates feet, or passes into traffic. Yet, against a veteran opponent, the kids did not wilt. At crucial times, we made plays. When WV had a break away lay up, we didn't do any thing stupid to give them free throws. Kaylon played with foul trouble and defended well and played smart from getting that fifth foul. Gioya played how I have always hoped she would, and now looks comfortable on the floor. Gabbi ran the floor well in spite of her six turnovers.
I did not understand the limiting of Nicole's minutes. I thought she inspired when was in and played well. That may be part of Sherri's weakness of substituting, but it worked out well. We have all talked about it, but Sherri really does have several options to go to if players struggle. It worked out well with T'ona, LaNesia, McKenna, ViVi, and Maddie in the mix. This young team will have its struggles in conference play, but I really liked what I saw from the kids today. When West Virgina came out and roared back into the lead after half time, the kids did not back down. They locked down defensively, rebounded with authority and closed out a hard fought game. If they can build on these last two games, and continue to play a hard forty minutes Weds. and Saturday, they could be looking at 3-0 with the Horns coming to town. A tough assignment, but I wouldn't bet against them. Today was a fun game to be a part of with the best crowd of the season.
I was one who was skeptical of this game today, but if the kids can keep improving, they have the potential to be the third best team in the conference. Its going to be an interesting ride.
