The team should be rested and ready to go tonight at Wright State. Giving the ladies a little more time off then planned could be a possitive factor tonight. Rest is the biggest need when playing with the short bench.
Keys to the contest:
Keep up the D. The Lady Crusaders lead the conference in points allowed, and are ranked 13th in the country in this stat thus far. That's amazing, playing this short handed. WS averages 69 pts. a contest. I don't see them getting close to that tonight.
We have to keep a hand in Demmings face whenever she touches the ball. Limiting her looks will be very important tonight.
Blocking out: We've done a good job on the boards thus far: we could do a bit better though - Keeping Fox off balance and blocked out will be another key factor.
On offense, We have to take care of the ball. They have 12 Freshmen on their squad who are all fighting for floor time, and will come in aggressive when given the chance. Turnovers could play a part in this one, if we let them.
Our guards need to get off early from outside. Forcing Wright State to step out and guard us will allow us to take advantage of their youth and find the seems to get the ball inside for some easy baskets. It also will negate some of their speed on transition as we'll by allowing us to get back quickly on D if they come up with the miss.
X factor - If Jasone is given the green light tonight, this could give our ladies some much needed rest throughout the contest - it will also give us the opportunity to work her into the fold, and give us a different look that noone has had the opportunity to scout yet.
We need to see Timmerman get minutes tonight, and look to score. If we can get some minutes from Horton tonight, That should help others with the fatique factor in the last 5 minutes of the game.
This is a very winable game tonight. These ladies are tough, resilient, and never quit. Getting off to a fast start may prove to be the biggest key if we can keep this very young, inexperienced squad back on their heals early.
Go Lady Crusaders! Bring home the W.
Will Betsy Adams be able to play??
Quote from: vu72 on December 28, 2011, 11:18:52 AM
Will Betsy Adams be able to play??
How many ladies will be released by the 'infirmary' for tonight's game? More than Adams would be nice. Got a bit tired of seeing all the black warmup suits on the bench, and not enough white uniforms on the court.
Quote from: vu72 on December 28, 2011, 11:18:52 AM
Will Betsy Adams be able to play??
From what I've heard, she will be in the lineup but will still be limited.
I think the key to this game (and maybe the season) for the Lady 'Saders is whether or not Timmerman can continue her progression. I've been very impressed by the strides she has made in the last two games. Can she keep it up?
Getting Jasone and Adams in the line-up over the next few games could have a profound impact on our season I imagine
Not looking too sharp the first half. The last shot of the half tells it all. We aren't finishing underneath. Jansone is struggling in her debut. WS is killing us from downtown. That's the difference in the game. I don't know what anyone has heard, But it was my belief that Adams was looking to redshirt this season. Probably a smart move at this juncture. She deserves a full season before she parts. I guess Horton is still not available. Any news on Gerardot? She's appears to be slowed by something.
Got to get it together and going the 2nd half.
Am embarrassing loss tonight for the Lady 'Saders. You just can't shoot 28% from the field and expect to beat anyone in the Horizon League.
Every time they reel me in and make me a believer, they throw me back to the sharks. I don't know what to think about this team anymore. One game they look like a team who could make a deep postseason run, the next game they look like a team that needs to move to the NAIA.
Not sure how much I can take from this squad, emotionally.
Quote from: Crusader03 on December 28, 2011, 10:22:31 PM
Am embarrassing loss tonight for the Lady 'Saders. You just can't shoot 28% from the field and expect to beat anyone in the Horizon League.
Every time they reel me in and make me a believer, they throw me back to the sharks. I don't know what to think about this team anymore. One game they look like a team who could make a deep postseason run, the next game they look like a team that needs to move to the NAIA.
Not sure how much I can take from this squad, emotionally.
Wow!! The 180 being thrown here by Crusader03 is laughable. He goes from saying that the women could get to the postseason after two big wins where we're severely undermanned, and now we're having to talk him off the ledge because they couldn't win a conference game. Come on! The women have some rust to get out, and some playing time, after not having played since the Sunday before Christmas, if I recall correctly. Don't throw them under the bus for bad play when they rested for so long.
So, what is up with the injuries on this team? They've been playing for a couple of months and 7 of 13 have played. I understand that the foreign player just got eligible but what about the rest? Are these season ending injuries requiring a redshirt year or will they be back? What is taking so long to heal? Just seems odd. Stafanie Lang comes to mind. Any answers?
I hate to say it, but there's more then holiday rust working here. A loss wasn't the worse that could have happened, but losing the way we did was troublesome. MS, with all of their youth, schooled us. How you can continue to let their shooters shoot from long range without getting a hand in there face is un-acceptable. I don't know what D we were running, as it wasn't recognizable. And why we didn't change out of it or even try to adjust it in the second half is beyond me. They had 2 players we needed to concetrate on. Demmings with the ball, and Fox on the boards. We did neither. That one's on the coaches. What ever game plan they were working off of, needs to be crumbled up and tossed - and should have been at the break. From my vantage point we made zero adjustments in the second half.
Offensively, we were slow and unsure of ourselves. I don't think Jansone was ready to play, and others looked like they didn't want to be there. We are dealing with a short bench anyway, so why at several times during the game, did we have 2 scorers sitting at once? That can't happen. Several times we had our long range shooters standing wide open on the left side of the basket, and our bigs aren't kicking it out to them, or skip passing from the right. Our passing was slow and suspect. We absolutely looked loss on the inside game. Off balance, forced shots seemed to be the theme from 8ft in. This didn't even look like the same team that competed before the holiday.
We fought all the way back in the second half, only to let them rain 3's on us again. At times it looked like we were playing 4 on 5. They had a player wide open on every possesion. At some point you have to change things up and give them a different look. Never happened.
At the end of the day, You just won't win many, if any games in this league when you end the game with 4 pts in the paint.
We need to put this one behind us and get ready for the weekend. I'm hoping the coaching staff watches this game film over and over, and realize, that, this one was on them. We came in unprepared, with the wrong plan.
Quote from: jack on December 29, 2011, 07:32:40 AM
I hate to say it, but there's more then holiday rust working here. A loss wasn't the worse that could have happened, but losing the way we did was troublesome. MS, with all of their youth, schooled us. How you can continue to let their shooters shoot from long range without getting a hand in there face is un-acceptable. I don't know what D we were running, as it wasn't recognizable. And why we didn't change out of it or even try to adjust it in the second half is beyond me. They had 2 players we needed to concetrate on. Demmings with the ball, and Fox on the boards. We did neither. That one's on the coaches. What ever game plan they were working off of, needs to be crumbled up and tossed - and should have been at the break. From my vantage point we made zero adjustments in the second half.
Offensively, we were slow and unsure of ourselves. I don't think Jansone was ready to play, and others looked like they didn't want to be there. We are dealing with a short bench anyway, so why at several times during the game, did we have 2 scorers sitting at once? That can't happen. Several times we had our long range shooters standing wide open on the left side of the basket, and our bigs aren't kicking it out to them, or skip passing from the right. Our passing was slow and suspect. We absolutely looked loss on the inside game. Off balance, forced shots seemed to be the theme from 8ft in. This didn't even look like the same team that competed before the holiday.
We fought all the way back in the second half, only to let them rain 3's on us again. At times it looked like we were playing 4 on 5. They had a player wide open on every possesion. At some point you have to change things up and give them a different look. Never happened.
At the end of the day, You just won't win many, if any games in this league when you end the game with 4 pts in the paint.
We need to put this one behind us and get ready for the weekend. I'm hoping the coaching staff watches this game film over and over, and realize, that, this one was on them. We came in unprepared, with the wrong plan.
You may have more knowledge of the inner-workings of the LS's staff...how are game preparation responsibilities broken up among the coaches? How about in-game responsibilities? Obviously, the buck stops with Keith but I'd be curious how much power he needs to wrestle back from some of his assistants. Are Helm, Komara or *shudder* Kirby big culprits in this loss?
I've replayed this game in my mind about a thousand times since last night....I think you're right Jack, this one falls on the staff. I'm usually a big supporter, but the injury excuse is running its course...they have to have these girls ready to play. Maybe Keith needs to send a message by letting someone on the staff go to shake things up and get everyone serious? Thoughts??
These girls need to learn to play with who they have right now because from what I have heard no one else is coming back.
Shaquira Scott- ACL tear out for remainder of season
Charare Richardson- Red shirt due to eligibility reasons
Betsy Adams- Knee problem (got surgery) (I heard though that she was only suppose to be out for 4 weeks tho..hmmm...)
Stefanie Lang- Knee surgery, then severe back injury, and now her knee is hurt again
Maegan Callaway- Red shirt due to severe back injury
Liz Horton- Concussion
I have a question? From what I hear in the stands Adams, Lang, and Callaway should ALL be back playing right now or sooner. What is going on with the rehab that is holding them back? I know they have a new athletic trainer, but i just question how those girls can be out for this long! I heard they aren't even practicing yet! And sadly I have also heard some pretty disturbing things within the program..
Good luck girls...stay strong, hang tough, ,and keep fighting
I have no knowlege of individual coaching resposibilities or how Keith delegates responsibilities during games, or practices. My comments are just from opinion based on years of coaching, and enjoying the ladies game. It's a more fundamental product to watch, then the men's game.
Speaking of which, I believe this was the breakdown last night. Outside of some questionable coaching, I think some of the blame must rest on the players execution, and fundamentals. We failed, both on the floor, and on the bench, to recognize what WS was giving us on offense. Their plan was obvious. Crowd the inside, don't let Gerardot get decent looks, and keep Varner from slashing to the basket - mission accomplished. We made no adjustments offensively to counter this. Case in point: at one point Carr had been sitting for a time and was brought back in. I believe on the first play, she hits a 3, and got back on D to slow down the ball. In a matter of 2 minutes, she was back on the bench. Same thing happened with Timmerman. I understand neither are still 100%, but neither asked to come out from what I saw, and neither appeared to being coached about anything on the sidelines. Richards is a good little guard, but it was obvious we needed outside scoring with the way the contest was unfolding. Sometimes I think Keith does things in spite of what's best, but only he can answer that. WS was giving us many open looks outside, but we continued to go inside to a game that just wasn't on last night. Maybe if our shooters start knocking them down from 10ft and out, it opens up our inside game a little by forcing their defenders out a little. There were some great opportunities also, to utilize the pick and roll as most of their defenders were packing it inside, and their help D wasn't present outside. The give and go was available numerous times too, but I don't recall 1 time when we tried it. Our guards were setting some nice screens at times, but our bigs were oblivious to them it seemed. Just my observation, but it appeared that some of the ladies were playing scared, which was surprising considering all they've been through thus far. Personally, I think that Jansone could help out as the season progresses, but 14 minutes in her first contest were far too many. 5 or 6 to give others a blow would have made more sense. She wasn't at game speed when she was in.
There's plenty of blame to go around on this one, but, as you said, the buck stops with Freeman. Our coaching staff must do a better job of recognizing what the D is giving us, and, even though the bench is short, we have to have the right personnel in at the right time to maximize our efforts. Having our shooters sitting for any length of time in this one was wasn't a good decision.
I guess it's easy to second guess what's going on from the sidelines after the fact, but I truly believe if the coaches take a good hard look at this game film, they'll make adjustments and react differently if these circumstances present themselves in the future. I'm also sure If I viewed the game film, I may change some of my opinions about how it unfolded as well. Again, at the end of the day, if you finish a game with 4 pts. in the paint, it really doesn't matter what plan you came in with.
Quote from: jhnmttws75 on December 29, 2011, 11:15:42 AM
These girls need to learn to play with who they have right now because from what I have heard no one else is coming back.
Shaquira Scott- ACL tear out for remainder of season
Charare Richardson- Red shirt due to eligibility reasons
Betsy Adams- Knee problem (got surgery) (I heard though that she was only suppose to be out for 4 weeks tho..hmmm...)
Stefanie Lang- Knee surgery, then severe back injury, and now her knee is hurt again
Maegan Callaway- Red shirt due to severe back injury
Liz Horton- Concussion
I have a question? From what I hear in the stands Adams, Lang, and Callaway should ALL be back playing right now or sooner. What is going on with the rehab that is holding them back? I know they have a new athletic trainer, but i just question how those girls can be out for this long! I heard they aren't even practicing yet! And sadly I have also heard some pretty disturbing things within the program..
Good luck girls...stay strong, hang tough, ,and keep fighting
I think you should have said " The coaches need to learn to play with who they have right now" - It's their plan, not the girls. It has to be tough on the coaches when they can't even floor a 5 on 5 in practice. Let's not forget too, that we had a very talented player leave the program that would have made a huge difference. The injury bug has certainly taken it's toll on the team this season, but we have been winning with a very short bench prior to the break. We need to look at, what we did differently last night, and, at some point, we need to look at the players that are hurt, how much did they contribute prior to getting hurt, when, if ever, will they come back to contribute, and help this squad win, and, if not, what direction do we need to go to improve our team, and be able to compete. We have a great core group with these ladies - unfortunately, we lose Varner and Timmerman after this season, Hopefully, Betsy redshirts and comes back next year, we have another year with Lange and Richards, and a couple with Gerardot, and we'll have Scott and Carr for another 3. We've got some good talent waiting in the wings, but we still seem to be missing that one player we need to really be a contender. The type of player we hoped Ladd would be. I think we need to take a good hard look at what our best case scenario would be, even if the injured players make it back, and go from there.
Quote from: Crusader03 on December 28, 2011, 10:22:31 PM
Not sure how much I can take from this squad, emotionally.
Are you serious? They aren't that good and haven't been for a while, so this isn't exactly unexpected. I understand being passionate about a team, but you have to keep the expectations in check as well.
With all of these injuries, it makes me wonder if it has to do with some of the strength and conditioning training the girls do in the offseason and the weight room, or if the women's team constantly gets a different athletic trainer who have different philosophies from when Denise Criswell was there in the late '90s/early 2000s? I mean if we have so many girls out with injuries, and the athletic trainer for the program goes from one grad student to another every two years, why doesn't Mark LaBarbera talk with Rod Moore about this, and maybe work in getting a salary structure for the women's team to have a trainer that is hired in, instead of one working to build up a grad school resume for a summer internship to help with their career? These injuries have been building up, and I know Scott's ACL tear was very freakish, but what about the other back and knee injuries that have taken their toll on our team? Maybe it's time for Keith and the coaching staff to confront this problem with the trainer, or take it up with Mark LaBarbera, and get someone in that can really answer, "When will so-and-so be able to get back on the court again" or "Do we maybe consider that some of these issues might have something to do with the quality of the Nike shoes that the girls are wearing"?
The amount of misinformation on here just makes me laugh. Adams isn't close to playing. Callaway is taking a redshirt and is shut down for the season. Lang has multiple injuries and there is more concern about making sure she doesn't spend too much time rehabbing than there is with her actually putting on a uniform. The team hasn't been able to practice five-on-five since the men's scout team left for break. Say what you want about the coaching staff and the recent struggles this program has had, but I challenge any of you to field a team with six or seven players and try to win games at this level. This team has overachieved from the moment Ladd left. Her leaving had nothing to do with Valpo, but everything to do with her family in Evansville. Anyone who tries to spin that Ladd left here because of Freeman or her teammates or anything else besides homesickness has a hidden agenda.
This women's team and the players that are currently playing are something special. Varner had a crushing injury last year and rehabbed all season only to come back to a team that has plenty of other crushing injuries. Richards and Lange are asked to play 40 minutes a night and do so without hesitation. Gerardot expected to have loads of help in the post this season with Ladd, Callaway and Lang, but now she's on her own. Carr is a freshman and being forced to play through freshman mistakes. Callaway can hardly speak without tears when she talks about her back injury and how much it kills her not to be on the floor with her teammates. That all says nothing of a coaching staff that has to prepare a team for competition with little/no depth.
It sickens me that people criticize this team.
Pgmado, I understand where you coming from about people criticizing the women's downfall this season, but there hasn't been a lot of information provided to give an inkling of why players are out for so long. Unless you've written about it in the Times, or posted what you ethically can here, most of us have no clue that Callaway is redshirting or that Adams isn't in any kind of playing condition. Even if Keith can't give all the details, it would be nice if we could at least get some indication from him that the injuries aren't in any condition of getting better right now.
Quote from: Pgmado on December 29, 2011, 03:43:00 PM
It sickens me that people criticize this team.
C'mon, this is a bit over the top.
Quote from: Pgmado on December 29, 2011, 03:43:00 PM
The amount of misinformation on here just makes me laugh. Adams isn't close to playing. Callaway is taking a redshirt and is shut down for the season. Lang has multiple injuries and there is more concern about making sure she doesn't spend too much time rehabbing than there is with her actually putting on a uniform. The team hasn't been able to practice five-on-five since the men's scout team left for break. Say what you want about the coaching staff and the recent struggles this program has had, but I challenge any of you to field a team with six or seven players and try to win games at this level. This team has overachieved from the moment Ladd left. Her leaving had nothing to do with Valpo, but everything to do with her family in Evansville. Anyone who tries to spin that Ladd left here because of Freeman or her teammates or anything else besides homesickness has a hidden agenda.
This women's team and the players that are currently playing are something special. Varner had a crushing injury last year and rehabbed all season only to come back to a team that has plenty of other crushing injuries. Richards and Lange are asked to play 40 minutes a night and do so without hesitation. Gerardot expected to have loads of help in the post this season with Ladd, Callaway and Lang, but now she's on her own. Carr is a freshman and being forced to play through freshman mistakes. Callaway can hardly speak without tears when she talks about her back injury and how much it kills her not to be on the floor with her teammates. That all says nothing of a coaching staff that has to prepare a team for competition with little/no depth.
It sickens me that people criticize this team.
The amount of misinformation is directly tied to the complete lack of information from the sports information office and the local papers. Callaway has been shut down? Lang is officially out. All we read is that they are hurt and haven't played in x games. Seems like misinformation that they might. No one until you brought it up blamed this coaching staff for Ladd.
Pgmado, This isn't a matter of misinformation, or even information for that matter. You seem to be taking on a paranoid attitude to all of this. As stated, no one has blame the coaching staff, or the players, for Ladd's departure. I know some things were posted on another media that suggested that, and Ladd and her family didn't do anything to help that cause, but it was made clear in the beginning, even before she signed, that there was some apprehension in her decision. As I posted previously, she was having seperation issues for the 1 week she spent away from home during the All Stars run. You are the only one I've seen, to date, that has even suggested that.
The general concesus on this board has been, that these ladies are certainly over-achieving, given the hand they've been dealt. There is no denying that. I can't imagine running a practice without a healthy 10 to put on the floor. Much of their sucess is atributed to the ladies themselves, and the gut, heart, and determination they bring to the team. You are right, this is a special group of young ladies, and they will achieve success, both on the floor, and in the classroom.
My hat is off to the coaching staff for what they've been able to achieve while dealing with such adversity. They have seemed to be snake bit thus far. Having said that, a good coach looks at what's transpired, and learns from it. We had the healthy horses to beat a lessor WS team last night. Period. We didn't come with the right game plan, and we didn't execute like we should have. Period. I'd bet money that Freeman will tell you the same thing. We missed opportunities, and our D, at times, was helter skelter. In my experience, some of that happens when the players realize what they should be doing before the coaching staff does. I've never seen so many uncontested 3's in 1 game in all my years of coaching, and following ladies basketball. That has nothing to do with the short bench, and everything to do with the game plan. We came in knowing we had 2 players to control, to stay competitive. others contributed, but controlling just the 2, and we're in the game. These 2 schooled us, and it had nothing to do with the talent we had on the floor.
I like Freeman, and his staff, but at the end of the day, they blew this one. They'll bounce back, but only if they realize this one was on them, and they need to learn, and adjust.
I, and others, know a little more about this great game then you give us credit for.
It goes without saying that this program has an uphill battle this season. But at some point, we need to quit hoping for reinforcements, prepare the players we have, and utilize each and every one of them to their strengths.
This was a bad loss for the team, coaches, and players. It's time to put this one behind us, learn from it, and head north to take it to Detroit. We know what players we have to utilize, and we need to instill a plan catered to them. They say that situations like this is where the coaches earn their keep. Losing isn't the worse thing that can happen, as long as we come in with a workable plan, are willing to adjust, and the players give us al they have. These three things didn't happen at WS. I trust they will in Detroit.
this has been an ongoing problem-we are not competitive in the horizon league...not just from our rash of injuries recently...
Quote from: jimdandy on December 29, 2011, 10:14:57 PM
this has been an ongoing problem-we are not competitive in the horizon league...not just from our rash of injuries recently...
We can be. With the talent we have, and the talent coming in, we can compete in this league. It's all about a plan, preparation, and utilizing the talent we have. We seem to get hung up on a pecking order. If a Freshman comes in with more talent then an upper classmen, they need to be playing, to help the team, and drive the upper classmen to do better. Prior to Scott getting hurt, her playing time was increased only due to injury. She should have been playing regardless. If we plan on continuing to live by this philosophy when bodies are healthy, we be watching more of the same.
Quote from: jack on December 30, 2011, 07:55:51 AM
Quote from: jimdandy on December 29, 2011, 10:14:57 PM
this has been an ongoing problem-we are not competitive in the horizon league...not just from our rash of injuries recently...
We can be. With the talent we have, and the talent coming in, we can compete in this league. It's all about a plan, preparation, and utilizing the talent we have. We seem to get hung up on a pecking order. If a Freshman comes in with more talent then an upper classmen, they need to be playing, to help the team, and drive the upper classmen to do better. Prior to Scott getting hurt, her playing time was increased only due to injury. She should have been playing regardless. If we plan on continuing to live by this philosophy when bodies are healthy, we be watching more of the same.
Honestly, if the philosophy doesn't change soon talent will leave and/or be hard to recruit solid players in the future. WBB game has evolved and we must keep up. I have faith that this will occur with the talent the coaches are bringing mixed w/current players. Keep in mind, the kid that 'killed' us in Wright State game was a freshman!
Just wanted to take a minute and say how much I appreciate the balanced analysis here in the "Lady 'Saders Lounge" (as I like to call it). It's a breath of fresh air from some of the blowhards and old timers in the MBB threads who are so up and down on the team. One minute we're ridin' high, the next minute we are not close to being contenders in the HL...it's maddening. Keep up the thoughtful conversation gents, it's needed!
Since Paul seems to know everything within the program why haven't we seen any articles on it? You sitting on all this information is BS. Do your job, be a reporter, and report what is going on. It's disgusting how you refuse to post anything in the times referring to all this. You know more than anyone...Keith paying you to keep your mouth shut? Classy.
Wow, JH making his presence felt. Tell us how you really feel.
Quote from: jhnmttws75 on December 30, 2011, 05:40:54 PM
Since Paul seems to know everything within the program why haven't we seen any articles on it? You sitting on all this information is BS. Do your job, be a reporter, and report what is going on. It's disgusting how you refuse to post anything in the times referring to all this. You know more than anyone...Keith paying you to keep your mouth shut? Classy.
Have you ever been a member of the regular media? I don't know what leeway Paul has in terms of how he gathered his information and how he is allowed to report on it within the space he is provided. I know that the radio broadcasters mention the injuries to a certain extent, but they also have a primary need to cover the game and talk about the people that actually play instead of going ad nauseum about who isn't.
I am not Paul nor do I know exactly what his framework is for his work, therefore I'm going to let him do his job and avoid any further comments on it if possible.
There are many factors that make up a team's successes and failures. It is difficult for most of us on this board to have the internal knowledge required to actually understand the issues facing this team. Unfortunately for us, watching how the team plays in a game only tells a portion of the story. What happens in practice every day? I'm of the opinion that 80% of the game is decided in the practices leading up to that game. Who practices? Who does not? How do the team meetings go? How do the meetings with the coaches go? What are the attitudes? How hard are the injured girls rehabbing? How many of the parents are creating issues? Does the team have the support of the administration? Why are there no fans in the stands? There are many things to be considered, but first and foremost would be the level of support given to the girls and the coaches. They need our support.
Quote from: jhnmttws75 on December 30, 2011, 05:40:54 PM
Since Paul seems to know everything within the program why haven't we seen any articles on it? You sitting on all this information is BS. Do your job, be a reporter, and report what is going on. It's disgusting how you refuse to post anything in the times referring to all this. You know more than anyone...Keith paying you to keep your mouth shut? Classy.
As much as I agree that we need MUCH MORE coverage in both papers for the Lady 'Saders, I think it is a bit over-the-top to level a respected poster like PGMADO like this. Right or wrong, there is a pecking order 'round these parts and you are stepping out of line. PGMADO may not have a TON of posts, but he is a long timer and is well-liked by the regulars here. Does he have the clout of say '72, rlh, DMValpo, myself, jack, SaintLouisValparasioUniversityfan, or "THE CHEF?" No, but that's fine...he doesn't have the time for the board like we do and we all get that. But as I said, he is a beloved poster and you aren't going to win any friends blasting him.
Totally forgot about sectionee!!!!! He has fast become one of the most respected journalists on the board. If there is anyone who I most pattern my posting style and way of thinking after, it is ee. KUTGW EE!!!
Quote from: Girlsbbfan on December 30, 2011, 06:55:58 PM
What happens in practice every day? I'm of the opinion that 80% of the game is decided in the practices leading up to that game. Who practices? Who does not? How do the team meetings go? How do the meetings with the coaches go? What are the attitudes? How hard are the injured girls rehabbing? How many of the parents are creating issues? Does the team have the support of the administration? Why are there no fans in the stands? There are many things to be considered, but first and foremost would be the level of support given to the girls and the coaches. They need our support.
These are fantastic questions. Maybe Jack can handle these??? Or Valpohoops...he alluded to the fact that he is a student manager or something with the women's team.
Quote from: Crusader03 on December 30, 2011, 07:12:23 PM
Totally forgot about sectionee!!!!! He has fast become one of the most respected journalists on the board. If there is anyone who I most pattern my posting style and way of thinking after, it is ee. KUTGW EE!!!
are we sure sectionee would agree with that?
Quote from: DMvalpo18 on December 30, 2011, 07:17:15 PM
Quote from: Crusader03 on December 30, 2011, 07:12:23 PM
Totally forgot about sectionee!!!!! He has fast become one of the most respected journalists on the board. If there is anyone who I most pattern my posting style and way of thinking after, it is ee. KUTGW EE!!!
are we sure sectionee would agree with that?
Well, they say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery...so I bet he doesn't mind!
Seriously, though, for kicks sometime....cover up the user names and avatars and try to guess which posts are mine and which are ee's. I bet you dollars to donuts you have a tough time with it...our posts are eerily similar I have found.
Quote from: Crusader03 on December 30, 2011, 07:22:15 PM
Quote from: DMvalpo18 on December 30, 2011, 07:17:15 PM
Quote from: Crusader03 on December 30, 2011, 07:12:23 PM
Totally forgot about sectionee!!!!! He has fast become one of the most respected journalists on the board. If there is anyone who I most pattern my posting style and way of thinking after, it is ee. KUTGW EE!!!
are we sure sectionee would agree with that?
Well, they say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery...so I bet he doesn't mind!
Seriously, though, for kicks sometime....cover up the user names and avatars and try to guess which posts are mine and which are ee's. I bet you dollars to donuts you have a tough time with it...our posts are eerily similar I have found.
well if respect is the name of the game i guess there can't be anything wrong with that. but i don't exactly see the other posters agreeing with you on that.
Quote from: DMvalpo18 on December 30, 2011, 07:23:49 PM
Quote from: Crusader03 on December 30, 2011, 07:22:15 PM
Quote from: DMvalpo18 on December 30, 2011, 07:17:15 PM
Quote from: Crusader03 on December 30, 2011, 07:12:23 PM
Totally forgot about sectionee!!!!! He has fast become one of the most respected journalists on the board. If there is anyone who I most pattern my posting style and way of thinking after, it is ee. KUTGW EE!!!
are we sure sectionee would agree with that?
Well, they say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery...so I bet he doesn't mind!
Seriously, though, for kicks sometime....cover up the user names and avatars and try to guess which posts are mine and which are ee's. I bet you dollars to donuts you have a tough time with it...our posts are eerily similar I have found.
well if respect is the name of the game i guess there can't be anything wrong with that. but i don't exactly see the other posters agreeing with you on that.
This is the beauty of message boards, friend...we can agree to disagree!! :) Just my :twocents:
I only wish I had your slightly twisted sense of humor. I'm also not a journalist, just a fan who expresses his thoughts with poorly constructed sentences on a rarely visited blog!
Quote from: Girlsbbfan on December 30, 2011, 06:55:58 PM
There are many factors that make up a team's successes and failures. It is difficult for most of us on this board to have the internal knowledge required to actually understand the issues facing this team. Unfortunately for us, watching how the team plays in a game only tells a portion of the story. What happens in practice every day? I'm of the opinion that 80% of the game is decided in the practices leading up to that game. Who practices? Who does not? How do the team meetings go? How do the meetings with the coaches go? What are the attitudes? How hard are the injured girls rehabbing? How many of the parents are creating issues? Does the team have the support of the administration? Why are there no fans in the stands? There are many things to be considered, but first and foremost would be the level of support given to the girls and the coaches. They need our support.
I think for the most part, they get our support. Unfortunately, some of the comments being made here are from fans that are frustraighted by the lack of success they have enjoyed thus far. The seasoned players that are able to play deserve the success, and the younger players that are also competing are doing their best to achieve it as well. One of the most frustraighting elements right now are all of the injuries. There are conditioning exercises out their that cater to the female athlete. I, for one, have been involved in these exercises in the past, and am a true believer in their values specific to women. I'd have to believe that the Valpo trainers are in tune with these, and are customizing their conditioning exercises to this vain. Do I know that for sure? No. I think the question needs to be asked though as we seem to have more then our share of long term, and season ending injuries. It would be interesting to take a cross section of similiar teams and compare injury reports. I follow the ladies game frequently, and don't recall another D1 squad that's been competing for the duration we have with less then 8 healthy bodies. I'd be interested to hear if anyone else has an example of one that has.
As for the 80% of a game's success being decided in the practices, I'm not sure I agree with that. Granted, teams play as they practice, but it's up to the coaches to see what's going on in practice, and make the needed adjustments to give their squad the best possible chance of winning when the game whistle blows. Our coaches have been behind the eight ball all season without the opportunity to practice 5 on 5 in prep for a game. That's a severe disadvantage for any team. Frankly I'm suprised with what success we've had to this point.
All of the other "what ifs" you mention are no different then with any other team. This is a special group of young ladies enduring more then their share of adversity, and they will all be better and stronger athletes, and people for having done so. We can only hope they experience their share of success as they work through it all. Go Crusaders!
The differences between winning and losing are very small. It is very hard for a team with limited numbers to do all the little things well all the time. Fatigue and the lack of complete practices put this team in a tough position from the get go. The girls on this team can play and the coaches can coach (I know this first hand) beyond that all we need to do is support them. They will work it out eventually.
if we did not have the injuries on this team some of you would come up with other excuses as to the reasons why we are not doing well..as has been the case in the past
Just for future reference if you eliminate Green Bay from the Horizon league they are no better than the Summit League's women's basketball. Check the Sagarin ratings.
Quote from: Girlsbbfan on December 31, 2011, 04:11:17 PM
Just for future reference if you eliminate Green Bay from the Horizon league they are no better than the Summit League's women's basketball. Check the Sagarin ratings.
That statement could be made with many of the leagues, insert team! I believe if we could have hit the ground running with a full compliment of players, we could have competed with GB for the league tittle. We have as much talent when we're healthy. Unfortunately, we won't know this season, but I believe we'll give them a better game then expected. We're getting hammered now, but learning, and getting tougher for it, with the players we can floor. This is a tough and resilient group of young ladies and I, for one am proud to be a fan!
if you think we could be considered a threat to green bay (even with a full roster) then you really are skewed on how much talent this team has(had) and how the team is prepared
we are a middle of the pack horizon league team AT BEST
Quote from: jimdandy on January 01, 2012, 09:18:17 AM
if you think we could be considered a threat to green bay (even with a full roster) then you really are skewed on how much talent this team has(had) and how the team is prepared
we are a middle of the pack horizon league team AT BEST
Oh ye of little faith. If we had a full roster, including Ladd, who we planned on, we would have give GB a run for their money. Not a doubt in my mind. Unfortunately, we'll never truly know. I suspect you felt the same about the 6 players we floored and beat a very good EI squad. Winners can't be picked prior to the contest. As they say 'that's why they play the game."
We just have to keep rooting for the Crusaders and hope they can improve week to week at this point.
Quote from: Girlsbbfan on December 31, 2011, 04:11:17 PM
Just for future reference if you eliminate Green Bay from the Horizon league they are no better than the Summit League's women's basketball. Check the Sagarin ratings.
So what you are saying is we aren't even a competitive Summit League team. I agree.... seems to me that our current system has run its course. The women's game has evolved and we are stuck about 5 years behind. You are not consistently win scoring in the 50's which is where we will have been for 3 straight years. The women's game is more uptempo now. 200 D1 schools are averaging 60 or better, you need to be able to score in the 70's. We need someone who coaches to a more uptempo style. Lets be honest our style is not all that entertaining. We need to recruit shooters and our plodding style is not a great selling point.
Quote from: jack on January 01, 2012, 10:00:11 AM
Quote from: jimdandy on January 01, 2012, 09:18:17 AM
if you think we could be considered a threat to green bay (even with a full roster) then you really are skewed on how much talent this team has(had) and how the team is prepared
we are a middle of the pack horizon league team AT BEST
Oh ye of little faith. If we had a full roster, including Ladd, who we planned on, we would have give GB a run for their money. Not a doubt in my mind. Unfortunately, we'll never truly know. I suspect you felt the same about the 6 players we floored and beat a very good EI squad. Winners can't be picked prior to the contest. As they say 'that's why they play the game."
We just have to keep rooting for the Crusaders and hope they can improve week to week at this point.
Jack, I asume you had hit New Years pretty hard before this post. You are usually pretty "right on" in your analysis but this one is even a reach for 03.
Quote from: IndyValpo on January 01, 2012, 03:45:09 PM
Quote from: jack on January 01, 2012, 10:00:11 AM
Quote from: jimdandy on January 01, 2012, 09:18:17 AM
if you think we could be considered a threat to green bay (even with a full roster) then you really are skewed on how much talent this team has(had) and how the team is prepared
we are a middle of the pack horizon league team AT BEST
Oh ye of little faith. If we had a full roster, including Ladd, who we planned on, we would have give GB a run for their money. Not a doubt in my mind. Unfortunately, we'll never truly know. I suspect you felt the same about the 6 players we floored and beat a very good EI squad. Winners can't be picked prior to the contest. As they say 'that's why they play the game."
We just have to keep rooting for the Crusaders and hope they can improve week to week at this point.
Jack, I asume you had hit New Years pretty hard before this post. You are usually pretty "right on" in your analysis but this one is even a reach for 03.
Not a reach at all.
The two guys who watch more Lady 'Saders bball than probably the rest of the board combined keep telling you how good this team could be/could have been and you guys just write it off. That's too bad.
Quote from: Crusader03 on January 01, 2012, 03:46:56 PM
Quote from: IndyValpo on January 01, 2012, 03:45:09 PM
Quote from: jack on January 01, 2012, 10:00:11 AM
Quote from: jimdandy on January 01, 2012, 09:18:17 AM
if you think we could be considered a threat to green bay (even with a full roster) then you really are skewed on how much talent this team has(had) and how the team is prepared
we are a middle of the pack horizon league team AT BEST
Oh ye of little faith. If we had a full roster, including Ladd, who we planned on, we would have give GB a run for their money. Not a doubt in my mind. Unfortunately, we'll never truly know. I suspect you felt the same about the 6 players we floored and beat a very good EI squad. Winners can't be picked prior to the contest. As they say 'that's why they play the game."
We just have to keep rooting for the Crusaders and hope they can improve week to week at this point.
Jack, I asume you had hit New Years pretty hard before this post. You are usually pretty "right on" in your analysis but this one is even a reach for 03.
Not a reach at all.
The two guys who watch more Lady 'Saders bball than probably the rest of the board combined keep telling you how good this team could be/could have been and you guys just write it off. That's too bad.
Hold on there pilgrim, at noon today on another thread you said the following:
"Well, lock the doors and turn off the lights boys, the party's over. This collection of Lady 'Saders, for all intents and purposes, is done. I think Keith may need to think about blowing things up. There are some assistants/managers/trainers that may need to be shown the door. Nothing personal, but the lack of recovery from injuries, lack of development etc falls on the staff. (Keith can either take responsibility and be axed or he can pass the buck as he should and gain more time.) Next, he might need to decide which players are non-essential and "nudge" them to consider other opportunities. We need every s'ship free we can get so that Keith can bring in HL-level players (*elbow, elbow* and some of these girls ain't it, pal). "
Get rid of all the assistants, dump the managers and trainers, chase non HL level players.....BLOW IT UP! Yes that certainly sounds like a team that should be competive with GB.
Quote from: IndyValpo on January 01, 2012, 03:43:32 PM
Quote from: Girlsbbfan on December 31, 2011, 04:11:17 PM
Just for future reference if you eliminate Green Bay from the Horizon league they are no better than the Summit League's women's basketball. Check the Sagarin ratings.
So what you are saying is we aren't even a competitive Summit League team. I agree.... seems to me that our current system has run its course. The women's game has evolved and we are stuck about 5 years behind. You are not consistently win scoring in the 50's which is where we will have been for 3 straight years. The women's game is more uptempo now. 200 D1 schools are averaging 60 or better, you need to be able to score in the 70's. We need someone who coaches to a more uptempo style. Lets be honest our style is not all that entertaining. We need to recruit shooters and our plodding style is not a great selling point.
[/b]
As a fan who has watched only a little of women's basketball games this season, I remain confused after reading this rather complete analysis of our situation by several different people. So here's the question: Indy says our style is not a great selling point. I think if you look at the combined resumes of our players it would compare very favorably with anyone in the conference. I mean the number of Indiana All Stars etc. Ladd was the runner-up for Miss Basketball, for an example. It seems players from way down in the Evansville area are a little home sick or otherwise troubled so I can't really blame Keith for her leaving. Nonetheless, resumes are a starting point and our players have good ones. Why we can't put it all together is the looming question. Injuries are clearly an issue this season. Thus, it is hard to say that the coaches are failing. As for style, any of our girls could play a different more up-tempo game if asked. They probably would prefer it given the overall NBA influence on today's athletes.
So hear is another question: Why is Green Bay Green Bay? Are they really recruiting Big Ten caliber players or is it something more? It isn't the weather. I'm willing to give Keith another year but if it doesn't turnaround then, unfortunately it may be a time for a change.
Quote from: IndyValpo on January 01, 2012, 09:01:59 PM
Quote from: Crusader03 on January 01, 2012, 03:46:56 PM
Quote from: IndyValpo on January 01, 2012, 03:45:09 PM
Quote from: jack on January 01, 2012, 10:00:11 AM
Quote from: jimdandy on January 01, 2012, 09:18:17 AM
if you think we could be considered a threat to green bay (even with a full roster) then you really are skewed on how much talent this team has(had) and how the team is prepared
we are a middle of the pack horizon league team AT BEST
Oh ye of little faith. If we had a full roster, including Ladd, who we planned on, we would have give GB a run for their money. Not a doubt in my mind. Unfortunately, we'll never truly know. I suspect you felt the same about the 6 players we floored and beat a very good EI squad. Winners can't be picked prior to the contest. As they say 'that's why they play the game."
We just have to keep rooting for the Crusaders and hope they can improve week to week at this point.
Jack, I asume you had hit New Years pretty hard before this post. You are usually pretty "right on" in your analysis but this one is even a reach for 03.
Not a reach at all.
The two guys who watch more Lady 'Saders bball than probably the rest of the board combined keep telling you how good this team could be/could have been and you guys just write it off. That's too bad.
Hold on there pilgrim, at noon today on another thread you said the following:
"Well, lock the doors and turn off the lights boys, the party's over. This collection of Lady 'Saders, for all intents and purposes, is done. I think Keith may need to think about blowing things up. There are some assistants/managers/trainers that may need to be shown the door. Nothing personal, but the lack of recovery from injuries, lack of development etc falls on the staff. (Keith can either take responsibility and be axed or he can pass the buck as he should and gain more time.) Next, he might need to decide which players are non-essential and "nudge" them to consider other opportunities. We need every s'ship free we can get so that Keith can bring in HL-level players (*elbow, elbow* and some of these girls ain't it, pal). "
Get rid of all the assistants, dump the managers and trainers, chase non HL level players.....BLOW IT UP! Yes that certainly sounds like a team that should be competive with GB.
COULD HAVE BEEN. With Ladd leaving, the injuries and some development issues, we aren't good. We could have been good if things had broken the right way. I concede they aren't going to at this point. You chastised Jack for saying the Lady 'Saders COULD HAVE competed with Green Bay. They COULD HAVE. We've said that all along. But now we are at the point of no return. Make sense, Kemosabe?
I'll concede to Indy V, we need to look at playing more uptempo basketball. I've said that even before this season. I disagree that, if healthy, we still wouldn't have the horses to compete in this league. I felt Keith and the gang did a nice job in recruiting the incoming players. All were bringing something to the table that's been needed, and 2 were indy all stars. I've always liked their drive to go after local talent. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, the injury bug, along with the defection, has taken it's toll. I suppose, if you look at the player we'll get next season when Richardson is elgeable, and the 3 guards who have commited vebally for next season, There's no time like the present to look at picking up the tempo. Scott and Carr both played up tempo ball prior to coming to Valpo, Jansone appears to have some speed, and I'm sure the others left standing after this year can adapt as well. I think it'll be important to go after another big to replace Ladd, and help fill the void when Varner departs.
Green Bay has some well conditioned athletes, and are the class of the HL league. A lot of that comes from confidence, which comes from winning, and buying into the system. Whether you like Freeman's style of play or not, I think we can all agree that he could have totally retooled his game plan with an up tempo program starting this year, and it wouldn't have mattered. You can't play an up tempo style when you on have 6 or 7 players to compete, night in and night out. We can't even work on an up tempo plan in practice when we can't put a 5 on 5 on the floor. I would have loved to have seen what could have been this season, but it wasn't in the cards for us this year. All we can do is continue to play hard, work on the fundamentals, and try to improve every game. We'll get some W's, and be a better team coming in next season.