Analysis and Comments - Game 25 - UConn vs South Carolina | Page 3 | The Boneyard

Analysis and Comments - Game 25 - UConn vs South Carolina

cferraro04 said:
COMMENTS

Hmmm...Let's see, one of the things I wanted to see in this game was that UConn was preparing itself to go down to Columbia, South Carolina, and take on the number one-ranked team in the country. I don't think that this game did that unless you acknowledge that Aaliyah Edwards is playing her best basketball now. Ashlynn Shade hit a career-high 5 threes and "Q" seems to have found her stroke.

I can't say for sure but, it appears to me that Paige may be showing some signs of the beating she has been taking in just about every game she plays. Her shot was not there in the first half and it was good to see her get back on track for the second half. I know that Paige is impacting the game in other ways, with her defense and her leadership but, I don't think we are seeing the best Paige yet. I don't think we can afford to have KK have an 'ofer' down in Columbia. Finally, Ice Brady needs to improve her rebounding, and her ability to go up strong in the paint and she needs to move towards the ball and make sure she catches the ball and keeps it away from the opposing team...oh, did I mention that she needs to stop making senseless fouls. While I don't think Ice is ready for the big time...let's face it we are out of time. We are going to need her on Sunday. She doesn't have to score double figures (though that would be nice)...we just need her to play tough defense, don't foul, and don't miss bunnies in the paint.

I expect our bench to get much shorter in this game unless our players get into foul trouble and Geno has no option but to go three and four deep into the bench. I think that Geno will give Ice and Q minutes to try and rest his starters who are sure to be tired. I pray that with the intensity that UConn will face in South Carolina, we do not have any additional injuries. These out-of-conference games played late in the season always worry me.

Now onto South Carolina...UConn got lucky with the fact that Dawn had committed to Kamilla Cardoso that she would be allowed to go play with her national team and try to help them qualify for the Olympics. It would have been easy for Coach Staley to tell her hey we have UConn coming to town and we need you to play in this game, of course, it is always a little easier when your team is the only undefeated team in women's college basketball. Regardless, Dawn kept her word to Kamilla and as a result, UConn has certainly dodged the proverbial bullet. But, that being said what does it mean that South Carolina will be playing us without their best player? The answer is, "Not very much". South Carolina is very deep and losing Cardoso's 13.8 points and 9.8 rebounds while they have Ashlyn Watkins with 9.0 points and 7.3 rebounds, Kloe Kitts with 9.4 points and 6.1 rebounds coming off the bench. Yes, Dawn's frontcourt has gotten a little thinner but it still is quite formidable. Losing their best player for 2 games needs to be put into context. When UConn goes down to South Carolina on Sunday they will be doing so having lost Azzi Fudd, Caroline Ducharme, Aubrey Griffin, Ayanna Patterson, and Jana El-Alfy.

At the end of the day, all anyone can do is play the game with who you have. This will not be an easy road game with such a deep, quality team like South Carolina. It will be a daunting task for UConn to keep it respectable. If UConn manages to win this game it will be because of a strong team effort by the starters, heroics from the stars (Paige and Aaliyah), and solid contributions from Ice and Q. Conventional wisdom says UConn will need to bring their "A" game and South Carolina will need to have an off game.

ANALYSIS

Aaliyah Edwards, 6'3" vs Ashlyn Watkins, 6'3" - Ashlyn will be called upon to replace Kamilla Cardoso...she will more than likely do a decent job but will probably end up being "Cardoso Light". Ashlyn averages 9.0 points and 7..3 rebounds. Ashlyn has good size but she is 6'3" not 6'7" and will not be as imposing in the paint. Ashlyn is, however, a good defensive player averaging a team-high 2.7 blocks per game. As I said in the comments section of this analysis Aaliyah Edwards is playing her best basketball. I would expect Dawn to play much more man-to-man defense than what we have seen with teams like Seton Hall who packs the middle and challenges UConn to make 3-point shots. Aaliyah is averaging 17.7 points per game and 8.8 rebounds. I think Ashlyn will find defending Aaliyah one-on-one to be extremely challenging. If Aaliyah can stay out of foul trouble I believe Aaliyah will come out on top in this match-up. If Ashlyn should get in foul trouble look for Sonia Faegin 6'3" Jr. to come into the game. Sonia isn't as productive in the post as Ashlyn is. Sonia averages 6.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. ADVANTAGE - UCONN

Paige Bueckers, 6'0" vs Cloe Kitts, 6'2" - Cloe has a height advantage over Paige however, I think that Paige without having to worry about double and triple teams will be a very difficult assignment for Cloe to have to do on her own. I would look for Dawn to bring help should Paige prove to be a difficult one-on-one assignment. Cloe is a solid player averaging 9.4 points and 6.1 rebounds. With her height advantage, Cloe could be a tough defensive assignment for Paige. And a big concern for UConn is that Paige does not get into foul trouble. To put it simply there is just no replacement should we lose Paige to fouls. Paige averages 20 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 2.3 steals, 1.1 blocks, and 2.0 three-pointers are just irreplaceable with this current team. If Paige stays on the court she will dominate at this position.
ADVANTAGE - UCONN

Nika Muhl, 5'11" vs Raven Johnson, 5'9" - Raven is South Carolina's main facilitator. Raven averages 9.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 2.2 steals per game. This match-up is crucial to the game. Nika needs to be able to stay with Raven and try to keep the ball out of her hands while staying out of foul trouble. This is a tall order as Raven is an excellent points guard who rarely fouls and only turns the ball over 1.6 times per game. Nika averages 7.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. The problem with Nika is that on occasion she makes silly fouls averaging 2.5 fouls per game. UConn will need Nika to stay on the floor. Nika will also need to make shots if left open. This match-up should be exciting.
ADVANTAGE - EVEN

Ashlynn Shade, 5'10" vs Bree Hall 6'0" - Ashlynn gives up two inches to Bree. Bree, being a junior is also a bit more experienced than Ashlynn. However, Ashlynn has been playing consistently and doesn't play like a freshman. Bree averages 10 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and makes 1.7 three-pointers per game. Ashlynn, on the other hand, averages 11.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and makes 1.7 three-pointers per game. It is amazing how close these players' statistics are. Statistically, they appear to be the same player with Ashlynn having a slight edge in points per game.
ADVANTAGE - EVEN

KK Arnold, 5'9" vs Te-Hina Paopao, 5'9" - Te-Hina being a senior gives her an advantage over KK in experience. Te-Hina is the second half of a back-court tandem that has paid big dividends for Dawn. She is a prolific 3-point shooter averaging 2.4 threes per game. Te-Hina averages 11.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1 steal per game. Te-Hina only turns the ball over 1.6 times per game. KK averages 9.4 points, 2.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 2.2 steals, and .7 three-pointers per game. KK turns the ball over 1.8 times per game. Statistically, Te-Hina has the advantage in assists, points, and three-pointers per game while KK has the advantage in steals per game. Given that Te-Hina is a senior and her statistical advantages...
ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA

BENCH

South Carolina will bring 26.5 points and 11 rebounds off the bench while UConn will bring in 11 points and 6.9 rebounds.
ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA

INTANGIBLES

This game will be played on the Gamecocks home court. It will be a hostile environment. SC is deeper than UConn and South Carolina's swagger will be evident when they take the court. ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA

COACHING

Dawn is an excellent coach, her play on the court both in college and the WNBA as well as her Olympic experience as a player and a coach. Additionally, having won a national championship and her recruiting over recent years makes her a formidable challenge for Geno and his staff. ADVANTAGE - EVEN

SCORE (my head keeps saying South Carolina by 4-5 points but my heart won't allow me to prognosticate a UConn loss...therefore, I am going with UConn pulling off the upset of the season by 3 points...I haven't been able to pick the MOV yet this season...so, I wouldn't be surprised if I miss it again).

UConn - 74
South Carolina - 71

MOV - 3
Expand ...
A pretty fair evaluation. I think you upped Uconn a bit . Dawn should get a pat on the back for her generous and player consideration both deserve high praise --including belief in her team. Good person, good coach.
You are truly right on Ashlynn--she play basketball better than a freshman. Geno should recruit her lower level coach. KK is a freshman, a talented freshman, a terrific passer--experience nearly always tells.
With this team Uconn has a decent chance of winning---chance--not expectation.
 
How the two Uconn freshman play (Shade and Arnold) will go a long way in determining how well the Huskies play at SC where they have won something like 51 straight games. A lot of pressure on those two freshman to play well in a big environment. Not to mention the players guarding them are fast and athletic as well as skilled. I think Paige and Edwards will need their A+ games in this one, and those two are probably up to that challenge, they have seen everything already in their careers and won’t be frazzled. But UConn has so few fouls to play with, in spite of both teams having 9 players each suited up for this game. That is because SC’s bench players are all productive and active participants in their team’s play, not so for the UConn bench players.
 
fomalhaut said:
When did Connecticut last have to suspend a player, if ever?
Expand ...
The closest recent case that I recall is Andra Espinoza-Hunter, who was a freshman in the 2017-18 season. She left the team during the Christmas break and transferred to Mississippi State and later Seton Hall. Subsequently, Geno revealed that she had been given an ultimatum to follow the coaches' instructions or leave the team, and she chose the latter path.

There were other cases in the more distant past where players left the team because things weren't working out. There have probably been cases where lesser punishments were sufficient to resolve the problem, but we typically don't hear about those.
 
I think our starting 5 can beat SC’s starting 5 (sans Cardoso). So the real question is… how do the benches do? Obviously SC’s is deeper and better. So, barring serious foul trouble on our part, we can win this one. It’s a bit of a long shot, but not impossible. Go Huskies!
 
Blacketh’D said:
Coaching advantage EVEN??? I didn’t even know that was possible. Shocked I tell you.
Expand ...

Dawn is a great coach and the biggest draw in terms of recruiting top talent. But Coach Geno is still the best bench coach in history.
 
.-.
Artifact said:
I know that possibly, I'm wrong, but seems as if, we are always end up playing on the S.C. home court ?
Expand ...
If I'm not mistaken, this game hasn't been held in Columbia since 2020. Since then, 2 were in Connecticut, 1 in the Bahamas and one in the Championship Game.
 
POST GAME COMMENTARY

I had to watch the game while visiting my grandchildren in New York. South Carolina just proved to be too much for UConn. As a team, they had swagger, played with confidence, played great defense, and made shots. I take my hat off to Dawn great job coaching a great group of players.

During the Analysis above I was pretty much on target except for the SCORE...let's face it I'm a homer I like being as fair as I can when deciding the match-ups and who prevails in each match-up. However, when it comes to predicting who will win the game...I confess...my glasses are Huskie Blue and even though my head says one thing...my heart just can't bring me to let the words "we will lose" escape from my mouth. So, a review of the match-ups and some quick comments as I prefer not to dwell on the loss but look forward to how this team can improve going into the postseason.

ANALYSIS

PREDICTED

Aaliyah Edwards, 6'3" vs Ashlyn Watkins, 6'3" - Ashlyn will be called upon to replace Kamilla Cardoso...she will more than likely do a decent job but will probably end up being "Cardoso Light". Ashlyn averages 9.0 points and 7..3 rebounds. Ashlyn has good size but she is 6'3" not 6'7" and will not be as imposing in the paint. Ashlyn is, however, a good defensive player averaging a team-high 2.7 blocks per game. As I said in the comments section of this analysis Aaliyah Edwards is playing her best basketball. I would expect Dawn to play much more man-to-man defense than what we have seen with teams like Seton Hall who packs the middle and challenges UConn to make 3-point shots. Aaliyah is averaging 17.7 points per game and 8.8 rebounds. I think Ashlyn will find defending Aaliyah one-on-one to be extremely challenging. If Aaliyah can stay out of foul trouble I believe Aaliyah will come out on top in this match-up. If Ashlyn should get in foul trouble look for Sonia Faegin 6'3" Jr. to come into the game. Sonia isn't as productive in the post as Ashlyn is. Sonia averages 6.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. ADVANTAGE - UCONN

ACTUAL

In this match-up, I had it right...however, Ashlyn was better than advertised and it was closer than I thought it would be.
Aaliyah had 20 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 block
Ashlyn had 15, points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks, and 2 steals
Consistent with the call in the Game Analysis...ADVANTAGE (albeit slight) - UCONN


PREDICTED

Paige Bueckers, 6'0" vs Cloe Kitts, 6'2" - Cloe has a height advantage over Paige however, I think that Paige without having to worry about double and triple teams will be a very difficult assignment for Cloe to have to do on her own. I would look for Dawn to bring help should Paige prove to be a difficult one-on-one assignment. Cloe is a solid player averaging 9.4 points and 6.1 rebounds. With her height advantage, Cloe could be a tough defensive assignment for Paige. And a big concern for UConn is that Paige does not get into foul trouble. To put it simply there is just no replacement should we lose Paige to fouls. Paige averages 20 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 2.3 steals, 1.1 blocks, and 2.0 three-pointers are just irreplaceable with this current team. If Paige stays on the court she will dominate at this position.
ADVANTAGE - UCONN

ACTUAL

In this match-up, I also had it right...but, I must say I was very impressed with Cloe KItts...
Paige had 20 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 1 block and 2 three-pointers
Cloe had 14 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block...she also fouled out of this contest.
Consistent with the call in the Game Analysis...ADVANTAGE - UCONN


PREDICTED

Nika Muhl, 5'11" vs Raven Johnson, 5'9" - Raven is South Carolina's main facilitator. Raven averages 9.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 2.2 steals per game. This match-up is crucial to the game. Nika needs to be able to stay with Raven and try to keep the ball out of her hands while staying out of foul trouble. This is a tall order as Raven is an excellent points guard who rarely fouls and only turns the ball over 1.6 times per game. Nika averages 7.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. The problem with Nika is that on occasion she makes silly fouls averaging 2.5 fouls per game. UConn will need Nika to stay on the floor. Nika will also need to make shots if left open. This match-up should be exciting.
ADVANTAGE - EVEN

ACTUAL

In this match-up, I had it wrong...I thought that Nika would be able to contain Raven but Rave proved how tough a player she is and she dominated in this match-up, especially in the rebounding.
Nika had 6 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal,and 2 three-pointers and unfortunately she also had 5 turnovers.
Raven had 10 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals
The call for this match-up in the Analysis was ADVANTAGE - EVEN....However, based on game data that call has to be changed from EVEN to ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA.


PREDICTED

Ashlynn Shade, 5'10" vs Bree Hall 6'0" - Ashlynn gives up two inches to Bree. Bree, being a junior is also a bit more experienced than Ashlynn. However, Ashlynn has been playing consistently and doesn't play like a freshman. Bree averages 10 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and makes 1.7 three-pointers per game. Ashlynn, on the other hand, averages 11.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and makes 1.7 three-pointers per game. It is amazing how close these players' statistics are. Statistically, they appear to be the same player with Ashlynn having a slight edge in points per game.
ADVANTAGE - EVEN

ACTUAL

In this match-up, I also had it wrong...I predicted that this match-up would be even but Ashlynn played well in a high-profile game once again causing me to think that this kid is not playing like a freshman...she is poised, plays solid defense, and is consistent on the offensive end.
Ashlynn had 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 three-pointers and 1 block.
Bree had 4 points, 1 assists, 1 block
So the call on this match-up must be changed from EVEN to: ADVANTAGE - UCONN


PREDICTED

KK Arnold, 5'9" vs Te-Hina Paopao, 5'9" - Te-Hina being a senior gives her an advantage over KK in experience. Te-Hina is the second half of a back-court tandem that has paid big dividends for Dawn. She is a prolific 3-point shooter averaging 2.4 threes per game. Te-Hina averages 11.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1 steal per game. Te-Hina only turns the ball over 1.6 times per game. KK averages 9.4 points, 2.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 2.2 steals, and .7 three-pointers per game. KK turns the ball over 1.8 times per game. Statistically, Te-Hina has the advantage in assists, points, and three-pointers per game while KK has the advantage in steals per game. Given that Te-Hina is a senior and her statistical advantages...
ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA

ACTUAL

In this match-up, Te-Hina dominated she had an incredible game. KK showed that she is still a freshman and needs more time to adjust to the college game.
KK had 2 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block (she had a bad shooting night but, not a bad all-around game)
Te_Hina had 21 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 5 three-pointers.
Consistent with the call in the Game Analysis - ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA

BENCH

PREDICTED - ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA

ACTUAL

South Carolina's bench outplayed UConn...
South Carolina had 19 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, 1 block, and 2 three-pointers.
UConn had 3 points, 1 rebound, and 1 three-pointer
Consistent with the analysis - ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA
 
cferraro04 said:
POST GAME COMMENTARY

I had to watch the game while visiting my grandchildren in New York. South Carolina just proved to be too much for UConn. As a team, they had swagger, played with confidence, played great defense, and made shots. I take my hat off to Dawn great job coaching a great group of players.

During the Analysis above I was pretty much on target except for the SCORE...let's face it I'm a homer I like being as fair as I can when deciding the match-ups and who prevails in each match-up. However, when it comes to predicting who will win the game...I confess...my glasses are Husky Blue and even though my head says one thing...my heart just can't bring me to let the words "we will lose" escape from my mouth. So, a review of the match-ups and some quick comments as I prefer not to dwell on the loss but look forward to how this team can improve going into the postseason.

ANALYSIS

PREDICTED

Aaliyah Edwards, 6'3" vs Ashlyn Watkins, 6'3" - Ashlyn will be called upon to replace Kamilla Cardoso...she will more than likely do a decent job but will probably end up being "Cardoso Light". Ashlyn averages 9.0 points and 7..3 rebounds. Ashlyn has good size but she is 6'3" not 6'7" and will not be as imposing in the paint. Ashlyn is, however, a good defensive player averaging a team-high 2.7 blocks per game. As I said in the comments section of this analysis Aaliyah Edwards is playing her best basketball. I would expect Dawn to play much more man-to-man defense than what we have seen with teams like Seton Hall who packs the middle and challenges UConn to make 3-point shots. Aaliyah is averaging 17.7 points per game and 8.8 rebounds. I think Ashlyn will find defending Aaliyah one-on-one to be extremely challenging. If Aaliyah can stay out of foul trouble I believe Aaliyah will come out on top in this match-up. If Ashlyn should get in foul trouble look for Sonia Faegin 6'3" Jr. to come into the game. Sonia isn't as productive in the post as Ashlyn is. Sonia averages 6.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. ADVANTAGE - UCONN

ACTUAL

In this match-up, I had it right...however, Ashlyn was better than advertised and it was closer than I thought it would be.
Aaliyah had 20 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 block
Ashlyn had 15, points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks, and 2 steals
Consistent with the call in the Game Analysis...ADVANTAGE (albeit slight) - UCONN


PREDICTED

Paige Bueckers, 6'0" vs Cloe Kitts, 6'2" - Cloe has a height advantage over Paige however, I think that Paige without having to worry about double and triple teams will be a very difficult assignment for Cloe to have to do on her own. I would look for Dawn to bring help should Paige prove to be a difficult one-on-one assignment. Cloe is a solid player averaging 9.4 points and 6.1 rebounds. With her height advantage, Cloe could be a tough defensive assignment for Paige. And a big concern for UConn is that Paige does not get into foul trouble. To put it simply there is just no replacement should we lose Paige to fouls. Paige averages 20 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 2.3 steals, 1.1 blocks, and 2.0 three-pointers are just irreplaceable with this current team. If Paige stays on the court she will dominate at this position.
ADVANTAGE - UCONN

ACTUAL

In this match-up, I also had it right...but, I must say I was very impressed with Cloe KItts...
Paige had 20 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 1 block and 2 three-pointers
Cloe had 14 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block...she also fouled out of this contest.
Consistent with the call in the Game Analysis...ADVANTAGE - UCONN


PREDICTED

Nika Muhl, 5'11" vs Raven Johnson, 5'9" - Raven is South Carolina's main facilitator. Raven averages 9.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 2.2 steals per game. This match-up is crucial to the game. Nika needs to be able to stay with Raven and try to keep the ball out of her hands while staying out of foul trouble. This is a tall order as Raven is an excellent points guard who rarely fouls and only turns the ball over 1.6 times per game. Nika averages 7.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. The problem with Nika is that on occasion she makes silly fouls averaging 2.5 fouls per game. UConn will need Nika to stay on the floor. Nika will also need to make shots if left open. This match-up should be exciting.
ADVANTAGE - EVEN

ACTUAL

In this match-up, I had it wrong...I thought that Nika would be able to contain Raven but Rave proved how tough a player she is and she dominated in this match-up, especially in the rebounding.
Nika had 6 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal,and 2 three-pointers and unfortunately she also had 5 turnovers.
Raven had 10 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals
The call for this match-up in the Analysis was ADVANTAGE - EVEN....However, based on game data that call has to be changed from EVEN to ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA.


PREDICTED

Ashlynn Shade, 5'10" vs Bree Hall 6'0" - Ashlynn gives up two inches to Bree. Bree, being a junior is also a bit more experienced than Ashlynn. However, Ashlynn has been playing consistently and doesn't play like a freshman. Bree averages 10 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and makes 1.7 three-pointers per game. Ashlynn, on the other hand, averages 11.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and makes 1.7 three-pointers per game. It is amazing how close these players' statistics are. Statistically, they appear to be the same player with Ashlynn having a slight edge in points per game.
ADVANTAGE - EVEN

ACTUAL

In this match-up, I also had it wrong...I predicted that this match-up would be even but Ashlynn played well in a high-profile game once again causing me to think that this kid is not playing like a freshman...she is poised, plays solid defense, and is consistent on the offensive end.
Ashlynn had 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 three-pointers and 1 block.
Bree had 4 points, 1 assists, 1 block
So the call on this match-up must be changed from EVEN to: ADVANTAGE - UCONN


PREDICTED

KK Arnold, 5'9" vs Te-Hina Paopao, 5'9" - Te-Hina being a senior gives her an advantage over KK in experience. Te-Hina is the second half of a back-court tandem that has paid big dividends for Dawn. She is a prolific 3-point shooter averaging 2.4 threes per game. Te-Hina averages 11.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1 steal per game. Te-Hina only turns the ball over 1.6 times per game. KK averages 9.4 points, 2.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 2.2 steals, and .7 three-pointers per game. KK turns the ball over 1.8 times per game. Statistically, Te-Hina has the advantage in assists, points, and three-pointers per game while KK has the advantage in steals per game. Given that Te-Hina is a senior and her statistical advantages...
ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA

ACTUAL

In this match-up, Te-Hina dominated she had an incredible game. KK showed that she is still a freshman and needs more time to adjust to the college game.
KK had 2 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block (she had a bad shooting night but, not a bad all-around game)
Te_Hina had 21 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 5 three-pointers.
Consistent with the call in the Game Analysis - ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA

BENCH

PREDICTED - ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA

ACTUAL

South Carolina's bench outplayed UConn...
South Carolina had 19 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, 1 block, and 2 three-pointers.
UConn had 3 points, 1 rebound, and 1 three-pointer
Consistent with the analysis - ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA
Expand ...
Your matchups are off. Bree Hall guarded Paige. I would say advantage UConn. However Kitts and Shade would be even.
 
Dognusty said:
Your matchups are off. Bree Hall guarded Paige. I would say advantage UConn. However Kitts and Shade would be even.
Expand ...
It is hard to predict what a coach will do on game day...so the match-ups were made according to statistics, height, and position played. It doesn't matter in regards to predictive match-ups on who plays who on game day...it is a statistical analysis. With regards to Hall playing Bueckers you are right...it stays Advantage UConn as that match-up is even more lop-sided and the point was that my original predicted match-up conclusion at least in this case was correct regardless of who guarded Paige. As far as Shade's match-up with Kitts who for the most part played in the post with Bueckers playing defense on her. If we look statistically at that match-up it technically falls in line with my original prediction that had the Shade/Hall match-up as ADVANTAGE - EVEN or (arguably slight advantage - UConn as how many points did UConn score off fouls created by the player, Ashlynn assisted on 2 baskets compared to Kitts assisting on only one basket).

Ashlynn Shade had 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 blocks, and 2 three-pointers, 2 turnovers, 1 foul.
Cloe Kitts had: 14 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block, 0 three-pointers, 3 turnovers, and 5 fouls.

But, all of this predictive match-up is merely an exercise to look at the pregame analysis a little differently, to provide perspective. The only match-up that mattered in this case was UConn vs South Carolina and clearly, the conclusion was overwhelmingly...
ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA
 
cferraro04 said:
It is hard to predict what a coach will do on game day...so the match-ups were made according to statistics, height, and position played. It doesn't matter in regards to predictive match-ups on who plays who on game day...it is a statistical analysis. With regards to Hall playing Bueckers you are right...it stays Advantage UConn as that match-up is even more lop-sided and the point was that my original predicted match-up conclusion at least in this case was correct regardless of who guarded Paige. As far as Shade's match-up with Kitts who for the most part played in the post with Bueckers playing defense on her. If we look statistically at that match-up it technically falls in line with my original prediction that had the Shade/Hall match-up as ADVANTAGE - EVEN or (arguably slight advantage - UConn as how many points did UConn score off fouls created by the player, Ashlynn assisted on 2 baskets compared to Kitts assisting on only one basket).

Ashlynn Shade had 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 blocks, and 2 three-pointers, 2 turnovers, 1 foul.
Cloe Kitts had: 14 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block, 0 three-pointers, 3 turnovers, and 5 fouls.

But, all of this predictive match-up is merely an exercise to look at the pregame analysis a little differently, to provide perspective. The only match-up that mattered in this case was UConn vs South Carolina and clearly, the conclusion was overwhelmingly...
ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA
Expand ...
What I'm saying is your matchups didn't play out the way you predicted, so in turn you can have a valuable result. Therefore either you change the conclusions because of that. The Kitts vs Paige matchup never occured really and the Hall vs Shade never occured. You cant conclude who won or losses. It never happened
 
.-.
Dognusty said:
What I'm saying is your matchups didn't play out the way you predicted, so in turn you can have a valuable result. Therefore either you change the conclusions because of that. The Kitts vs Paige matchup never occured really and the Hall vs Shade never occured. You cant conclude who won or losses. It never happened
Expand ...
What I am saying it was a predictive analysis and the way it played out is a little different than predicted because it is impossible to predict what a coach will do on game day. So, considering your suggestions...(mind you at least half of the match-up played out as Paige did play defense on Kitts and Shade did play defense on Hall). The conclusion was essentially the same...with Paige dominating her match-up; and Shade playing essentially even. I think we are both in agreement that the only important conclusion was the UConn vs South Carolina which was born out by the score.

It should be noted that in every one of these Game Analyses in the past and going forward, I am bound to make an incorrect assumption that Player A will be matched up with Player B.
 
OK let's try this again Husky Nan. UConn is great and their is no deficiencies in their game right now. The sky isn't falling, next year when every one is hopefully healthy UConn will make a run at the Final Four.
 
I just rewatched the first quarter. They missed shots but were not playing bad. Both Shade and Paige had some great looks. Additionally some of the shots Watkins made in the quarter were tough. KK did have a stretch where she got blocked emphatically and then took a bad three but I agree her energy wasn't bad. Honestly I'd take that first quarter despite it probably being the quarter they got outscored the most. It wasn't like they were disorganized or playing timid. They just missed shots. Will probably watch the rest of the game later.
 
jdote33 said:
I just rewatched the first quarter. They missed shots but were not playing bad. Both Shade and Paige had some great looks. Additionally some of the shots Watkins made in the quarter were tough. KK did have a stretch where she got blocked emphatically and then took a bad three but I agree her energy wasn't bad. Honestly I'd take that first quarter despite it probably being the quarter they got outscored the most. It wasn't like they were disorganized or playing timid. They just missed shots. Will probably watch the rest of the game later.
Expand ...
Wait until the second and esp the third quarter.
 
I have long been an admirer of UCONN basketball from the west coast. UCONN injuries are real & most definitely have legitimate impact on the overall performance of the team, and especially to those players who have remained healthy. What I have seen missing from UCONN's team this year is the defensive maturity of so many great UCONN teams of the past. UCONN's best teams were defensive monsters. UCONN's most dominating defensive teams would often not allow a team to get a shot off, or force a horrible late in the shot clock prayer. And as many have pointed out, UCONN's great teams also had 5 players on the court who could score. Hopefully the injury bug will not slay UCONN next season and the fans will enjoy a team with a deep bench. Having watched what Oregon State went through the past few seasons (injuries and portal losses), a return to the UCONN Teams of the past is surely in the cards. Also, could someone ask Geno to call Scott Rueck and explain how to get TOP 10 teams on your non-conference schedule. Thanks.
 
.-.
LoTrader said:
I have long been an admirer of UCONN basketball from the west coast. UCONN injuries are real & most definitely have legitimate impact on the overall performance of the team, and especially to those players who have remained healthy. What I have seen missing from UCONN's team this year is the defensive maturity of so many great UCONN teams of the past. UCONN's best teams were defensive monsters. UCONN's most dominating defensive teams would often not allow a team to get a shot off, or force a horrible late in the shot clock prayer. And as many have pointed out, UCONN's great teams also had 5 players on the court who could score. Hopefully the injury bug will not slay UCONN next season and the fans will enjoy a team with a deep bench. Having watched what Oregon State went through the past few seasons (injuries and portal losses), a return to the UCONN Teams of the past is surely in the cards. Also, could someone ask Geno to call Scott Rueck and explain how to get TOP 10 teams on your non-conference schedule. Thanks.
Expand ...
I would add that due to the youth of the freshmen, maturity in general is in short supply. Impatience was a part of the poor shooting yesterday and that is an immature approach. Geno said the team was trying to make up the deficit on the next shot, another symptom. Fortunately, this bunch seems coachable. I just hope they’ve kept their confidence intact
 
cferraro04 said:
What I am saying it was a predictive analysis and the way it played out is a little different than predicted because it is impossible to predict what a coach will do on game day. So, considering your suggestions...(mind you at least half of the match-up played out as Paige did play defense on Kitts and Shade did play defense on Hall). The conclusion was essentially the same...with Paige dominating her match-up; and Shade playing essentially even. I think we are both in agreement that the only important conclusion was the UConn vs South Carolina which was born out by the score.

It should be noted that in every one of these Game Analyses in the past and going forward, I am bound to make an incorrect assumption that Player A will be matched up with Player B.
Expand ...
I agree with the conclusions however I don't agree with he start and finish analyzing. How can you say Hall lost to Shade when they were never matched up consistently. Hall lost to Paige and Kitts player about even to Shade. That should be the conclusion and u should note that. I'm just saying
 
HuskyNan said:
I would add that due to the youth of the freshmen, maturity in general is in short supply. Impatience was a part of the poor shooting yesterday and that is an immature approach. Geno said the team was trying to make up the deficit on the next shot, another symptom. Fortunately, this bunch seems coachable. I just hope they’ve kept their confidence intact
Expand ...
What's so funny about this narrative is UCONN had More experience on the court that'll SC. Kitts is really a freshman she basically sat the bench her senior year. Tessa and Fuilwileu are freshmen. Raven is in her second year after injury, Watkins is a Sophomore who, until Cardoso say down, was a replacement. Stop the narrative of how much better you could be. Talent is being lost on Uconn bench and it is not at SC.
 
Dognusty said:
What's so funny about this narrative is UCONN had More experience on the court that'll SC. Kitts is really a freshman she basically sat the bench her senior year. Tessa and Fuilwileu are freshmen. Raven is in her second year after injury, Watkins is a Sophomore who, until Cardoso say down, was a replacement. Stop the narrative of how much better you could be. Talent is being lost on Uconn bench and it is not at SC.
Expand ...
I have no idea what you’re talking about. I said the young players played in an immature way and that I hoped it didn’t affect their confidence. I didn’t say anything about South Carolina. Take your attitude somewhere else
 
Dognusty said:
What's so funny about this narrative is UCONN had More experience on the court that'll SC. Kitts is really a freshman she basically sat the bench her senior year. Tessa and Fuilwileu are freshmen. Raven is in her second year after injury, Watkins is a Sophomore who, until Cardoso say down, was a replacement. Stop the narrative of how much better you could be. Talent is being lost on Uconn bench and it is not at SC.
Expand ...
Really? Let's see now....

UConn - Aaliyah - Sr.; Muhl - Sr.; Paige RS - Jr.; Ashlynn Shade - Fr; KK - Fr; Off the Bench - "Amari DeBerry - Jr.; Ines Bettencourt - So.; Ice Brady - R-Fr; Qadence Samuels - Fr.

In the starting line-up, UConn has (2) Sr.; (1) Jr.; (2) Fr.
Coming off the bench UConn has (1) Jr.; (1) So.; (2) Fr

South Carolina - Cardoso - Sr.; Te'Hina - Sr.; Hall Junior; Watkins - So.; Raven Johnson - So. Off the Bench - Sakima Walker - Sr.;
Sania Faegin - Jr.; Chloe Kitts - So.; Milaysia Fulwiley - Fr; Tessa Johnson - Fr.; Sahnya Ja - Fr.

In the starting line-up, South Carolina has (2) Sr., (1) Jr., (1) So., and (1) freshman.
Coming off the bench South Carolina has (1) Sr., (1) Jr., (1) So., and (3) Freshmen.

As you can see South Carolina has more experience on the floor (starting line-up) than UConn and,
South Carolina has more experience on the bench than UConn.

While Watkins might be a replacement or a reserve...she averages 20 minutes per game
Fulwiley averages 19 minutes per game
Tessa Johnson averages 15 minutes per game

Contrast that to the bench player for UConn:

Ice Brady gets 15.2 minutes per game.
Qadence Samuels gets 12.2 minutes per game.
Ines Bettencourt gets 5.6 minutes per game.
Amari DeBerry gets 4.6 minutes per game.

Yes, relative to a lot of elite teams in Women's NCAA basketball South Carolina is a young team. However, in comparison to which players South Carolina and UConn can put on the floor South Carolina is more experienced than UConn.
 
cferraro04 said:
Really? Let's see now....

UConn - Aaliyah - Sr.; Muhl - Sr.; Paige RS - Jr.; Ashlynn Shade - Fr; KK - Fr; Off the Bench - "Amari DeBerry - Jr.; Ines Bettencourt - So.; Ice Brady - R-Fr; Qadence Samuels - Fr.

In the starting line-up, UConn has (2) Sr.; (1) Jr.; (2) Fr.
Coming off the bench UConn has (1) Jr.; (1) So.; (2) Fr

South Carolina - Cardoso - Sr.; Te'Hina - Sr.; Hall Junior; Watkins - So.; Raven Johnson - So. Off the Bench - Sakima Walker - Sr.;
Sania Faegin - Jr.; Chloe Kitts - So.; Milaysia Fulwiley - Fr; Tessa Johnson - Fr.; Sahnya Ja - Fr.

In the starting line-up, South Carolina has (2) Sr., (1) Jr., (1) So., and (1) freshman.
Coming off the bench South Carolina has (1) Sr., (1) Jr., (1) So., and (3) Freshmen.

As you can see South Carolina has more experience on the floor (starting line-up) than UConn and,
South Carolina has more experience on the bench than UConn.

While Watkins might be a replacement or a reserve...she averages 20 minutes per game
Fulwiley averages 19 minutes per game
Tessa Johnson averages 15 minutes per game

Contrast that to the bench player for UConn:

Ice Brady gets 15.2 minutes per game.
Qadence Samuels gets 12.2 minutes per game.
Ines Bettencourt gets 5.6 minutes per game.
Amari DeBerry gets 4.6 minutes per game.

Yes, relative to a lot of elite teams in Women's NCAA basketball South Carolina is a young team. However, in comparison to which players South Carolina and UConn can put on the floor South Carolina is more experienced than UConn.
Expand ...

This is a little cherry picked and misleading if your data implies that Sakima Walker has more experience than Paige Bueckers. I think a more accurate way of looking at experience is seeing who has direct playing experience and their role on their team.

UCONN has 3 players with a wealth of experience in Edwards/Bueckers/Muhl. Edwards/Muhl are 4 year starters, Bueckers has been the star player her whole career and is probably the most experienced and relied upon player out of the 3. After that, it's all freshmen in the rotation. I wouldn't even mention Deberry/Bettencourt since neither can crack the lineup. UCONN has ample experience in some spots but none in others and no insurance policy of the bench for when their freshmen struggle.


South Carolina has a couple of similarly experienced veterans in Pao-Pao and Cardoso (though she didn't play vs UCONN), and a returning rotation player in sophomore Raven Johnson. After that, it's a slew of players who were seldom used the previous year but have thrived in larger roles this season (ex. Watkins/Feagin/Kitts/Hall), plus 2 freshmen (Johnson/Fulwiley). Jah/Walker aren't rotation players so I don't think it's relevant to bring them up here.


I think it's hard to say one team overall is more experienced than the other--their roster make ups are just different. Due to injuries, UCONN's is imbalanced and their players are either extremely experienced or have no experience. With SC, they have a couple of experienced players, a slew of players without much playing experience prior to this year, and a couple without experience.
 
.-.
bballnut90 said:
UCONN has 3 players with a wealth of experience in Edwards/Bueckers/Muhl. Edwards/Muhl are 4 year starters, Bueckers has been the star player her whole career and is probably the most experienced and relied upon player out of the 3. After that, it's all freshmen in the rotation. I wouldn't even mention Deberry/Bettencourt since neither can crack the lineup. UCONN has ample experience in some spots but none in others and no insurance policy of the bench for when their freshmen struggle
Expand ...
Nika and Aaliyah have played 120 college games; Paige has played in 67.
 
HuskyNan said:
Nika and Aaliyah have played 120 college games; Paige has played in 67.
Expand ...
I think there's something to be said for the amount of experience Paige has in a go to role. She's played fewer games overall but has more experience being relied upon to carry the team and make plays compared to the others. Compared to SC's go to player in Cardoso, Paige has far more experience playing in a go to role and navigating defenses designed to slow her down compared to Kamilla even if Kamilla has played more games overall.
 
Dognusty said:
Your matchups are off. Bree Hall guarded Paige. I would say advantage UConn. However Kitts and Shade would be even.
Expand ...
It's hard to predict what a coach will do. Plus, during the course of the game assignments change, switching on screens, players getting breathers, foul trouble, etc. Case in point, I'm of the opinion that Nika did a good job on Hidalgo while actually guarding her. Hidalgo scored when Nika got switched off on a screens and of course when Nika was sitting on the bench with foul trouble (no, I'm not excusing Nika's foul troubles, that's a problem too). However, several posters have said that Nika couldn't guard Hidalgo.
 
bballnut90 said:
I think there's something to be said for the amount of experience Paige has in a go to role. She's played fewer games overall but has more experience being relied upon to carry the team and make plays compared to the others. Compared to SC's go to player in Cardoso, Paige has far more experience playing in a go to role and navigating defenses designed to slow her down compared to Kamilla even if Kamilla has played more games overall.
Expand ...
Aaliyah is the go-to player, not Paige. Perhaps you should watch a few more games
 
cferraro04 said:
POST GAME COMMENTARY

I had to watch the game while visiting my grandchildren in New York. South Carolina just proved to be too much for UConn. As a team, they had swagger, played with confidence, played great defense, and made shots. I take my hat off to Dawn great job coaching a great group of players.

During the Analysis above I was pretty much on target except for the SCORE...let's face it I'm a homer I like being as fair as I can when deciding the match-ups and who prevails in each match-up. However, when it comes to predicting who will win the game...I confess...my glasses are Husky Blue and even though my head says one thing...my heart just can't bring me to let the words "we will lose" escape from my mouth. So, a review of the match-ups and some quick comments as I prefer not to dwell on the loss but look forward to how this team can improve going into the postseason.

ANALYSIS

PREDICTED

Aaliyah Edwards, 6'3" vs Ashlyn Watkins, 6'3" - Ashlyn will be called upon to replace Kamilla Cardoso...she will more than likely do a decent job but will probably end up being "Cardoso Light". Ashlyn averages 9.0 points and 7..3 rebounds. Ashlyn has good size but she is 6'3" not 6'7" and will not be as imposing in the paint. Ashlyn is, however, a good defensive player averaging a team-high 2.7 blocks per game. As I said in the comments section of this analysis Aaliyah Edwards is playing her best basketball. I would expect Dawn to play much more man-to-man defense than what we have seen with teams like Seton Hall who packs the middle and challenges UConn to make 3-point shots. Aaliyah is averaging 17.7 points per game and 8.8 rebounds. I think Ashlyn will find defending Aaliyah one-on-one to be extremely challenging. If Aaliyah can stay out of foul trouble I believe Aaliyah will come out on top in this match-up. If Ashlyn should get in foul trouble look for Sonia Faegin 6'3" Jr. to come into the game. Sonia isn't as productive in the post as Ashlyn is. Sonia averages 6.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. ADVANTAGE - UCONN

ACTUAL

In this match-up, I had it right...however, Ashlyn was better than advertised and it was closer than I thought it would be.
Aaliyah had 20 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 block
Ashlyn had 15, points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks, and 2 steals
Consistent with the call in the Game Analysis...ADVANTAGE (albeit slight) - UCONN


PREDICTED

Paige Bueckers, 6'0" vs Cloe Kitts, 6'2" - Cloe has a height advantage over Paige however, I think that Paige without having to worry about double and triple teams will be a very difficult assignment for Cloe to have to do on her own. I would look for Dawn to bring help should Paige prove to be a difficult one-on-one assignment. Cloe is a solid player averaging 9.4 points and 6.1 rebounds. With her height advantage, Cloe could be a tough defensive assignment for Paige. And a big concern for UConn is that Paige does not get into foul trouble. To put it simply there is just no replacement should we lose Paige to fouls. Paige averages 20 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 2.3 steals, 1.1 blocks, and 2.0 three-pointers are just irreplaceable with this current team. If Paige stays on the court she will dominate at this position.
ADVANTAGE - UCONN

ACTUAL

In this match-up, I also had it right...but, I must say I was very impressed with Cloe KItts...
Paige had 20 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 1 block and 2 three-pointers
Cloe had 14 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block...she also fouled out of this contest.
Consistent with the call in the Game Analysis...ADVANTAGE - UCONN


PREDICTED

Nika Muhl, 5'11" vs Raven Johnson, 5'9" - Raven is South Carolina's main facilitator. Raven averages 9.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 2.2 steals per game. This match-up is crucial to the game. Nika needs to be able to stay with Raven and try to keep the ball out of her hands while staying out of foul trouble. This is a tall order as Raven is an excellent points guard who rarely fouls and only turns the ball over 1.6 times per game. Nika averages 7.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. The problem with Nika is that on occasion she makes silly fouls averaging 2.5 fouls per game. UConn will need Nika to stay on the floor. Nika will also need to make shots if left open. This match-up should be exciting.
ADVANTAGE - EVEN

ACTUAL

In this match-up, I had it wrong...I thought that Nika would be able to contain Raven but Rave proved how tough a player she is and she dominated in this match-up, especially in the rebounding.
Nika had 6 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal,and 2 three-pointers and unfortunately she also had 5 turnovers.
Raven had 10 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals
The call for this match-up in the Analysis was ADVANTAGE - EVEN....However, based on game data that call has to be changed from EVEN to ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA.


PREDICTED

Ashlynn Shade, 5'10" vs Bree Hall 6'0" - Ashlynn gives up two inches to Bree. Bree, being a junior is also a bit more experienced than Ashlynn. However, Ashlynn has been playing consistently and doesn't play like a freshman. Bree averages 10 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and makes 1.7 three-pointers per game. Ashlynn, on the other hand, averages 11.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and makes 1.7 three-pointers per game. It is amazing how close these players' statistics are. Statistically, they appear to be the same player with Ashlynn having a slight edge in points per game.
ADVANTAGE - EVEN

ACTUAL

In this match-up, I also had it wrong...I predicted that this match-up would be even but Ashlynn played well in a high-profile game once again causing me to think that this kid is not playing like a freshman...she is poised, plays solid defense, and is consistent on the offensive end.
Ashlynn had 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 three-pointers and 1 block.
Bree had 4 points, 1 assists, 1 block
So the call on this match-up must be changed from EVEN to: ADVANTAGE - UCONN


PREDICTED

KK Arnold, 5'9" vs Te-Hina Paopao, 5'9" - Te-Hina being a senior gives her an advantage over KK in experience. Te-Hina is the second half of a back-court tandem that has paid big dividends for Dawn. She is a prolific 3-point shooter averaging 2.4 threes per game. Te-Hina averages 11.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1 steal per game. Te-Hina only turns the ball over 1.6 times per game. KK averages 9.4 points, 2.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 2.2 steals, and .7 three-pointers per game. KK turns the ball over 1.8 times per game. Statistically, Te-Hina has the advantage in assists, points, and three-pointers per game while KK has the advantage in steals per game. Given that Te-Hina is a senior and her statistical advantages...
ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA

ACTUAL

In this match-up, Te-Hina dominated she had an incredible game. KK showed that she is still a freshman and needs more time to adjust to the college game.
KK had 2 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block (she had a bad shooting night but, not a bad all-around game)
Te_Hina had 21 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 5 three-pointers.
Consistent with the call in the Game Analysis - ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA

BENCH

PREDICTED - ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA

ACTUAL

South Carolina's bench outplayed UConn...
South Carolina had 19 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, 1 block, and 2 three-pointers.
UConn had 3 points, 1 rebound, and 1 three-pointer
Consistent with the analysis - ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA
Expand ...

The problem with this player to player matchup and analysis is that the South Carolina starters played far fewer minutes. So if you were to do this position-to-position and aggregated all of the points, rebounds, blocks, etc., then South Carolina would come out far ahead at each position. To just put in the Bench as if it were one position fails to acknowledge that the SC players dominated during the minutes they were in the game, and the four bench players also continued to extend the lead when they went in. There's no surgar coating it: we were beaten soundly by the best team in the nation. By far.
 
cferraro04 said:
It is hard to predict what a coach will do on game day...so the match-ups were made according to statistics, height, and position played. It doesn't matter in regards to predictive match-ups on who plays who on game day...it is a statistical analysis. With regards to Hall playing Bueckers you are right...it stays Advantage UConn as that match-up is even more lop-sided and the point was that my original predicted match-up conclusion at least in this case was correct regardless of who guarded Paige. As far as Shade's match-up with Kitts who for the most part played in the post with Bueckers playing defense on her. If we look statistically at that match-up it technically falls in line with my original prediction that had the Shade/Hall match-up as ADVANTAGE - EVEN or (arguably slight advantage - UConn as how many points did UConn score off fouls created by the player, Ashlynn assisted on 2 baskets compared to Kitts assisting on only one basket).

Ashlynn Shade had 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 blocks, and 2 three-pointers, 2 turnovers, 1 foul.
Cloe Kitts had: 14 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block, 0 three-pointers, 3 turnovers, and 5 fouls.

But, all of this predictive match-up is merely an exercise to look at the pregame analysis a little differently, to provide perspective. The only match-up that mattered in this case was UConn vs South Carolina and clearly, the conclusion was overwhelmingly...
ADVANTAGE - SOUTH CAROLINA
Expand ...
Shade had a pretty rough shooting day and ultimately didn't have much of an impact.

But she absolutely played hard and unafraid.

There was never any chance Kitts was going to guard Bueckers. Just wouldn't have made any sense.
 
  • Like
Reactions: sun
.-.
You must log in or register to reply here.

Forum statistics

Threads
168,153
Messages
4,554,937
Members
10,438
Latest member
UConnheart


Top Bottom