I watched a lot of video of Evelyn during her time playing at Murray State. This is a talented, well-rounded player. The player I saw today was tentative and not sure of where she was supposed to be. With the news of Camura's surgery, Evelyn, now more than ever, has to relax and let ability shine through. Even if she simplifies it and just rebounds and defends, she could provide valuable backup minutes for Olivia.
Adapting to the UConn way must be a difficult process.
Based on the news revealed over the weekend, I’d say it’s imperative that Evelyn reprise her play of a year ago. Being down to 9 players means the 4 bench players will have to step up and play a large role in any success UConn hopes to achieve this season. This Husky team has no place for cheerleaders. The starters can’t carry the team alone. Any success this team has will truly be a “team” effort.
I see no reason the reserves can’t step up. Griffin is 18, and the only one of the group with no prior experience at this level (Div1). Bent and Irwin are 22, Adebayo turns 23 next month. If not now, when? These 3 are seniors. Griffin will have to walk the same path Christyn Williams did last year: “learn as you go”, or as it’s better known, OJT. Williams did it, Griffin can do it. Freshmen have been known to come in and play well their first year at other programs. This needs to be one of those times.
This team can’t afford to carry anyone. Geno can’t be apprehensive about using any of his reserves at any time. He’s going to need them throughout the year. A minor injury to a starter is a possibility, causing one to miss a game or two (Lou missed 4 last year) and foul trouble is a certainty.
He might as well get them prepared mentally and physically for the road ahead. There will be a few bumps in the road during the season that the team will have to navigate if they expect to get a #1 seed.