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Message: [QUOTE="BlueSkyGLW, post: 4229030, member: 11281"] Comparing statistics of predominantly different and not-so-large-number of opponents for these two teams leads to fantasy observations and conclusions. Perhaps, an analysis of the players in each team might yield better insight. It is not surprising that SC would outrebound everyone they play with Boston and Cardoso manning the post (probably the reason why Geno went for Dorka once she entered the transfer portal). SC also has speedier guards and they are competent shooters but the twin towers are not built for speed. Staley drills her teams on defense and likes to be post-centric on offense......they are a formidable team. But, what I thought about UConn when the season started is finally coming to pass - no, they are not the well-oiled offensive machine they could be but they have only had a handful of games together with a full roster (the ones I thought would be key contributors, save one: Aubrey would have contributed, especially in a pressing defense). Right now, they are hyperenergetic from the joy of everyone back. It helps the defense tremendously but the offense is sometimes rushed. Still, you can see moments of how it can eventually become. A couple of SC guards may be faster but UConn guards are no slouches and they are getting much better in the "read-and-react" defense and offense. And, it is no longer just Paige who is a reliable shooter from distance: the newcomers are very good (though Caroline has to get it back quickly) and the two seniors have improved their distance shooting. Do they have enough time to control their energies and get in sync on offense before the Regional Final? It's four games of high-stakes "rehearsals" and some time to practice in between tournaments. Six of them have worked with each other last year, the other three look like really smart players - no need to mention good....they are very good. They are being mixed and matched constantly, in part to prepare for contingencies so that Coach can play any group of five to advantage against any opponent in any circumstance they find themselves in. And, I say that they will get there with room to spare..... So much so that if they should meet SC whenever, I can see the greater flexibility growing in the UConn team beating the power and backcourt speed of SC. [/QUOTE]

Verification: First name of men's bb coach

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