I know that we are all expecting a big improvement; but it was still very encouraging to perform a detailed comparison the 2017-2018 roster to this year's team.
Usually, even when making year-to-year improvement as a team, there is at least one area that can be considered to be a step backwards...but not for the Cyclones this year.
Returning players should be at least as good as last year with an additional year of experience:
Mer Burkhall, Kristin Scott, AD Camber, Bridget Carleton, Madison Wise, Rae Johnson, Nia Washington
Scott and Wise have shown that they will be much better as Sophomores. I am also expecting a jump in performance from Camber.
Graduating seniors are replaced with upgrades:
Emily Durr replaced by Alexa Middleton (Alexa is a better shooter and a more complete player)
Claire Ricketts replaced by Ines Nezerwa (Ines is much more athletic, I like the thought of her in the press)
Something new that could make a significant difference:
Ashley Joens - I really hope that Ashley becomes what Bridget was last year (when she wasn't a point guard) and that Bridget can expand her mid-range game. Although a great player, Bridget is only an average ball handler and outside shooter (career 33.3% from 3-point range). But her mid-range game is among the best in women's college basketball. She is at her best when she "posts up" near the free throw line. With better 3-point shooting this year (Middleton, Joens, with hopefully improved Wise and Camber), the middle should be more open for Bridget. If they collapse on her, then make them pay with 3 pointers.
Jade Thurmon - I'm not expecting Jade to be in the main 7 or 8 player rotation. In itself, this is exciting because last year she probably would have been. What Jade brings is extreme quickness. If she learns to play within the system, she can contribute in special situations. I really like the thought of having Jade and Ines available when we decide to press. And against the right opponent, Jade's speed could be a weapon on both sides of the court. In women's basketball, quick players can also get a lot of rebounds (especially when there are lots of long shots). She will be a nice addition to what Bill has called "backup PG by committee".
Usually, even when making year-to-year improvement as a team, there is at least one area that can be considered to be a step backwards...but not for the Cyclones this year.
Returning players should be at least as good as last year with an additional year of experience:
Mer Burkhall, Kristin Scott, AD Camber, Bridget Carleton, Madison Wise, Rae Johnson, Nia Washington
Scott and Wise have shown that they will be much better as Sophomores. I am also expecting a jump in performance from Camber.
Graduating seniors are replaced with upgrades:
Emily Durr replaced by Alexa Middleton (Alexa is a better shooter and a more complete player)
Claire Ricketts replaced by Ines Nezerwa (Ines is much more athletic, I like the thought of her in the press)
Something new that could make a significant difference:
Ashley Joens - I really hope that Ashley becomes what Bridget was last year (when she wasn't a point guard) and that Bridget can expand her mid-range game. Although a great player, Bridget is only an average ball handler and outside shooter (career 33.3% from 3-point range). But her mid-range game is among the best in women's college basketball. She is at her best when she "posts up" near the free throw line. With better 3-point shooting this year (Middleton, Joens, with hopefully improved Wise and Camber), the middle should be more open for Bridget. If they collapse on her, then make them pay with 3 pointers.
Jade Thurmon - I'm not expecting Jade to be in the main 7 or 8 player rotation. In itself, this is exciting because last year she probably would have been. What Jade brings is extreme quickness. If she learns to play within the system, she can contribute in special situations. I really like the thought of having Jade and Ines available when we decide to press. And against the right opponent, Jade's speed could be a weapon on both sides of the court. In women's basketball, quick players can also get a lot of rebounds (especially when there are lots of long shots). She will be a nice addition to what Bill has called "backup PG by committee".