Recent content by HopJim

Am I the only one who is lacking in their knowledge of Norse mythology? Always was curious why this name was chosen. Valkyrie, in Norse mythology, any of a group of maidens who served the god Odin and were sent by him to the battlefields to choose the slain who were worthy of a place in Valhalla.

Don't see how this would work without the ability for players to go between leagues. Non-US players work locally to make the NBA and many fringe NBA players use the foreign leagues to extend their earnings or upgrade their skills. Many of the high draft choices were "unpaid" professionals that...

An unmentioned detail is that Ice's primary injury last year was to her shoulder. Agree that when you are on a potential National Championship Team that the overall conditioning of every player is key. On a Geno coached team, with the emphasis on going all out every practice, this is even more...

I have been predicting big things from Ice, but much of this depends on this year's version of UConn small ball. I never predicted last year's success with the small lineup so will not take a shot at how Geno employs his guards in this year's season.

Predicting the Ice Brady will play a more active role this year. Seems like she was fighting some lingering injuries this past year but suspect that she will come in this year stronger and with more confidence. My pick for an under the radar surprise.

First time in this tread but the Alabama reference does bring up a few thoughts. Relative to actual recruiting, UConn has a highly leveraged recruiting program in basketball, similar to Alabama football. Everyone who follows women's college basketball knows of the Huskies and there are UConn...

Interesting point that needs to be built into future negotiations is what WNBA players can make overseas. Many compare the men's and women's US salaries, but ignore the fact that women play 44 games a year ver 82 for the men. The WNBA players certainly deserve a higher % or revenues but are...

Have to agree with Cuango on the tee shirt and some issues that some players brought up. There are positive and negative tactics to use to gain benefits and increase your overall brand image. The basic issue with the WNBA is that they are not doing enough to attract fans and most (all?) teams...

Second the prediction of "best PG combo" for BOTH offense and defense. Kayleigh, once she gets used to UConn's style and her teammates, will likely react more quickly in all facets of the game. She plays solid defense and has the size to not get into mismatches from pick and roles.

Weird shirt. Not sure it's the brand image she wants or needs.

Good to have Strong back in US. While unstoppable in the FIBO 3x3 Tournament, doubt she had the time and opportunity to do proper training.

One of my favorite players. Always seemed to be undervalued. Clutch player.

This type of messaging is not positive for the WNBA. Shows that management still is not experienced enough. For all the attention the WNBA needs to grow, having focus on "their game is too rough" serves no positive purpose. Most well managed leagues would know how to manage the message(s).

With the team of Gary, Kara, Meg, and Allan, you got B level overall talent, but they demonstrated A+ knowledge of UConn basketball. It will be difficult for 99% of the potential announcers to come in and know UConn as the past team did. Most of us will also miss the pre and post-game shows, as...

No precedent for a 15-person team where all are on scholarship. Have watched Geno for 20+ years and he always went with his top 7-8 players, maybe 9 in the year Lou, Collier, Gabby were frosh. How will he react? Your guess is as good as mine.