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Joined: Dec 1969
Interesting how the story is that not only will Alanna play right away, which we expected, but that Marta will too. I also found it interesting that Karlie is being called a forward rather than a guard. I take that to mean that she is definitely going to be playing the 3 and splitting time there with McPhee, rather than playing any time at the 2.Â
It looks like Tara wants Lili more at the 2 rather than picking up point guard duties. I think that is wise. I noticed last year that Lili's offense declined some over the season as she seemed to get worn down. Bri and Marta alternating as point guards? Marta must have really impressed Tara. I'm trying to remember any frosh point guards under Tara--can anyone think of any? And will Alexa be Lili's relief?
A lot of hype about McCall bring a featured offensive player who does more than set picks and scores on put backs. That plus the limited return of the triangle must mean that Tara is convinced that McCall has developed a few effective back-to-the-basket moves. That would be an enormous improvement (and great relief to us fans) if true. I expect that Erica showed she could due it last summer.
What I am not clear about is how the rotation will work with McCall, Kaylee, and Smith. Kailee and Shannon could certainly earn time, but how are the 5-4 positions going to be distributed among last year's two starters and Smith? Smith could play the three, I believe--but we have Karlie and McPhee competing for time there already. Maybe even Tara doesn't exactly know how this will shake out.
Last year at this time we began to hear a lot about picking up speed and playing a deep rotation. It never quite happened. Now we are hearing that same mantra again. Is that just strategic talk to keep the whole team happy and involved, or is the difference between whoever our starters will be and the next five players really not very large? How can we play faster while bringing back the Triangle and featuring Erica? Doesn't that require working the ball inside? Or has Tara been so deeply impressed with Marta as a point guard that she thinks she can thread long passes in to McCall during the break?
Inquiring minds would like to know...
