Gabby Starting Today's Game

[Sluconn Husky]

You said - not just based on these 2 games KLS shooting is going to be more "hit-and-miss" - and "not just based on these 2 games."

Then based on what if not these two games?

I'm not sure what your statements mean. Geno has said he was supremely impressed with the frosh- so that included KLS. SO what is going to be so "interesting" about KLS's minutes? Instead of getting 20 she gets 16?

And I'm not sure what you mean by "more hit-an-miss." You mean KLS won't be the greatest shooter in UCONN History but maybe 2nd or 3rd?

Based on watching her elsewhere as well. Don't think she's going to have the consistency that KML had, but that's my guess. We shall see.

As far as minutes are concerned, I didn't single out KLS' minutes. Was referring to the entire team distribution.

 

[Huskies Rule]

My absolute favorite part of the game... seeing Morgan out there playing 27 minutes, after she played only 12 first half minutes then sat the rest of the Lubbock game.

 

[Sluconn Husky]

I don't agree regarding distance. Distance is ALWAYS a factor. Because DT and Sue Bird hit shots from halfcourt doesn't mean distance doesn't matter and they should then put the halfcourt shot in their repertoire.

There's a difference between a halfcourt shot and 22-foot three. She voluntarily shot and made from that far back and further with Mater Dei and Team USA. Today she was 2-10 from three with the further line, last week she was 2-9 with the regular line. I just don't think distance can be blamed.

The staff will work on it, in which as season progresses we would expect KLS to be a beast, right?

Hopefully. Nurse was pretty much ready to work within the UConn offense right away last year. The early games make me doubt KLS will be.

 

[Sluconn Husky]

Recap:

 

[hoophuskee]

Based on watching her elsewhere as well. Don't think she's going to have the consistency that KML had, but that's my guess. We shall see.

As far as minutes are concerned, I didn't single out KLS' minutes. Was referring to the entire team distribution.

What made you think she wasn't as good of a shooter in high school than that of KML? I thought I've read the coach said she shoots just as well?

 

[Sluconn Husky]

What made you think she wasn't as good of a shooter in high school than that of KML? I thought I've read the coach said she shoots just as well?

I'm saying more inconsistent. It's been a pretty big pattern at several levels the last year plus. She's apt to go 7-7 or 9-10 from three, or 2-10 like today. A lot of fluctuating in her 3-pt results, huge games or clunkers.

 

[hoophuskee]

There's a difference between a halfcourt shot and 22-foot three. She voluntarily shot and made from that far back and further with Mater Dei and Team USA. Today she was 2-10 from three with the further line, last week she was 2-9 with the regular line. I just don't think distance can be blamed.



Hopefully. Nurse was pretty much ready to work within the UConn offense right away last year. The early games make me doubt KLS will be.

I think you're wrong about distance. I think distance and the ball definitely can play a factor. Distance always does. Whether it id in this case obviolusy can't be certain- but distance does matter.

Secondly, you speak of what great range she has had and how she nailed shots here- but the other post you seem to suggest her high school number's showed you she wasn't as good as KML as a shooter. SO basically she has unlimted range but you know now she can't be as good of a shooter as KML despite the fact you saw her drill so well for Mater Dei and Team USA?

If I look at TEAM USA stats they both look tremendous. Per below here are stats for both: I just don't see the difference that you see. Granted I haven't seen near as much as you, but the games we saw together at Mater Dei- I thought both you and I thought she was tremendous.

http://archive.usab.com/bios/mosqueda-lewis_kaleena.html

http://www.usab.com/basketball/players/womens/s/samuelson-katie-lou.aspx

And I'm not sure I understand your point about Nurse. She was 1-5 in her two exhibition games from 3.

 

[hoophuskee]

I'm saying more inconsistent. It's been a pretty big pattern at several levels the last year plus. She's apt to go 7-7 or 9-10 from three, or 2-10 like today. A lot of fluctuating in her 3-pt results, huge games or clunkers.

Team USA that wasn't the case. So you are only identifying these two games. What stats you got from High School? I've given you Team USA and they look even. Where is the inconsistencies other than these two games?

 

[Sluconn Husky]

Team USA that wasn't the case. So you are only identifying these two games. What stats you got from High School? I've given you Team USA and they look even. Where is the inconsistencies other than these two games?

There were plenty of instances like that in high school, a few of the games were linked here last year. She was 7-8 in one game, then had a terrible state semi and final. And it was like that for her with the U-18 team. She was 6-7 from three in the semi-finals, then struggled in the gold medal game.

 

[Sluconn Husky]

I think you're wrong about distance. I think distance and the ball definitely can play a factor. Distance always does. Whether it id in this case obviolusy can't be certain- but distance does matter.

Again, first game 2-9 with the regular line. If today's issue was distance and the ball what was the previous game's? She just shot poorly for whatever reason.

SO basically she has unlimted range but you know now she can't be as good of a shooter as KML despite the fact you saw her drill so well for Mater Dei and Team USA?

I said not as consistent, game by game. She has more highs and lows from what I've seen.

And I'm not sure I understand your point about Nurse. She was 1-5 in her two exhibition games from 3.

I wasn't referring to Nurse's 3-point shooting or just her performances in exhibition games. Nurse was easily more comfortable in the offense than KLS is at this point. She made plays off the dribble and from mid-range. No hesitation. KLS has looked unsure of what to do and has taken 3 0f 22 shots inside the arc thus far.

 

[Sluconn Husky]

While the Collier and Samuelson continue to adjust to basketball at the collegiate level, Auriemma was pleased with her their performance and development as they get ready to start their regular season Nov. 16 against Ohio State.

“This is the worst they’re ever going to look while they’re at Connecticut, and they look pretty good. That’s the way I look at it,” Auriemma said of Collier and Samuelson. “They’re never going to look this bad, and they look good. Because they’re only going to get better each day and each game.”


http://dailycampus.com/stories/2015...huskies-tame-lions-in-80-point-exhibition-win

 

[hoophuskee]

Again, first game 2-9 with the regular line. If today's issue was distance and the ball what was the previous game's? She just shot poorly for whatever reason.



I said not as consistent, game by game. She has more highs and lows from what I've seen.



I wasn't referring to Nurse's 3-point shooting or just her performances in exhibition games. Nurse was easily more comfortable in the offense than KLS is at this point. She made plays off the dribble and from mid-range. No hesitation. KLS has looked unsure of what to do and has taken 3 0f 22 shots inside the arc thus far.

First game jitters? You've seen two games so far, didn't KML have an off two or three consecutive games her frosh year? Maybe she didn't. I don't know. Right now I don't have time to check.


And as far as highs and lows - okay good point. I'd like to see game to game stats of that back in high school. When you and I watched her - I never heard you say this before. We were both super-impressed with KLS I thought?. If she isn't as good as the greatest 3point shooter in terms of shooting - then maybe she'll be "2nd or 3rd?" But the difference in their %'s- could that also be in high school that KML being just 5'11 and not as quick couldn't get off shots unless she was more wide open? Thus more wide open = better percentages? I know for example vs ND in clutch situations she couldn't get open until Stewie emerged. KLS will shoot the ball more with someone in her face. Thus her %'s may never equal KML.

I didn't see the game. Are you saying KLS was indecisive? The article you provided in quotes below said KLS looked good. If she was wide open and just missing - I wouldn't call that "KLS looked unsure." Geno did say it was her worst game BUT she looked good. Maybe you and I are looking at this game a bit harder than we should? I said it is a problem but I'm saying it - just in terms of her being a frosh and her 1st few games. I expect she will shoot more 2's- heck she can't shoot less.


“This is the worst they’re ever going to look while they’re at Connecticut, and they look pretty good. That’s the way I look at it,” Auriemma said of Collier and Samuelson. “They’re never going to look this bad, and they look good. Because they’re only going to get better each day and each game.”

So based on this - I don't see "disconcerting." It seems to me KLS was wide open and just missed. Many players when they are open they dribble too far into traffic and force a tough shot. As we see KLS now- as a frosh - if she is wide open from 3, I'd scream for her to shoot it. Her strength is shooting. Sure if she is off that day she can put ball on floor and take a closer shot. But that comes with experience. She has played only two exhibition games.

 

[BroadwayVa]

I did see the game; actually the first one I've seen in person, which for basketball is so much, much better. It goes without saying that Courtney is not as athletic as her teammates, but she does see the floor very well. All three assists were on passes that not many young college players are capable of making. She knows when to skip pass and when to rotate, a skill that the coaches will certainly find endearing. As for KLS, no one should worry about her missing threes; the arc on her shots is just about perfect and they will be going in sooner than later. She is also remarkably athletic for her size and build and like Courtney sees the floor very well. I would not be at all surprised to see her used in the high post more frequently by the end of the season; a 6'3" guard who can shoot, pass and drive would be devastating in that position against a match-up zone.

Thank you I couldn't agree more. However, I am not unhappy I didn't see this game. Usually I love to see "blowouts" because I get to see the growth (or lack thereof) of up and coming players. I thought that our opponent in this game was at way too many disadvantages along with the depth of UConn they had to combat a larger ball, shorter time, wider lanes --all of which, To ME, gave Uconn much too much for most AAC teams let alone a Div 2 team. 18 to 98 isn't an embarrassment for opponent

 

[BroadwayVa]

While the Collier and Samuelson continue to adjust to basketball at the collegiate level, Auriemma was pleased with her their performance and development as they get ready to start their regular season Nov. 16 against Ohio State.

“This is the worst they’re ever going to look while they’re at Connecticut, and they look pretty good. That’s the way I look at it,” Auriemma said of Collier and Samuelson. “They’re never going to look this bad, and they look good. Because they’re only going to get better each day and each game.”


http://dailycampus.com/stories/2015...huskies-tame-lions-in-80-point-exhibition-win

Leave it to the Master to have the RIGHT and Final word on Collier and Samuelson as beginning Freshmen.. Thanks!!!!

 

[BroadwayVa]

Has any consideration been given for Boykin to red shirt this season? Anybody know (beside Geno and Rosemary)?

Don't we have to near Christmas to sit her for Red Shirting?? Why do it before it is necessary. Rehab etc can continue without Red Shirting.
I never ever disagree with Kibtzer--these are questions not insults, so please take them in the intended manner.

 

[BroadwayVa]

Well she can't possibly continue to shoot 21% from three one wouldn't think. The fact that nearly all of her shots have been three attempts is a bit more disconcerting. She's not involved in the offense yet. Don't think she's ready to be in the starting lineup against quality competition. Probably gonna be Williams which would've been my last guess a few months ago.

I hope I wasn't so ignorant as to say---KLS will be starting!! Geno has historically allowed his Frosh, even his greatest Frosh (except maybe DT) to sit for a while and watch and learn before being put into the game. Against "Quality" competition, Geno rarely ever puts anyone expect his anointed starting 5 --at least to start. You are on firm ground spouting true Geno-isms. When you do that you are most likely arguing with yourself.

 

[Bgillon]

Based on what I have read from our excellent posters, I believe KLS is trying to adjust to the college game, including speed and expectations. She clearly was comfortable in AAU and International play from a movement and positioning standpoint. Conversely, it sounds like she is not yet comfortable with those things at UCONN. On the other hand, Pheese sounds like she has adjusted much better so far as evidenced by her double double yesterday. And now the season begins for Geno to work is magic aiming toward April!

 

[Sluconn Husky]

hoophuskee,

I'm not worried about KLS, just noting that she doesn't appear real comfortable in the offensive system yet. We'd all have liked to have seen her make more shots; it'd make everyone including her feel better. They've kept her outside the 3-pt line constantly and I'd like to see her move around for other shots. She had a wide open shot from the foul line yesterday and never considered taking it, instead passing quickly to Stewart who found Collier inside for a basket. I think some makes inside the arc might take some pressure off her.

Anyway, Geno agrees with you.

 

[Sluconn Husky]

“The players that played a lot last year, the four returning starters and Gabby, had a pretty good sense of what we were trying to do defensively,” Geno Auriemma said. “The young guys [Samuelson and freshman Napheesa Collier] are getting better at it. They are both long and pretty smart.


“The fact we have many interchangeable parts, when we switch on screens, really makes it matter little who is playing who [defensively]. But being a great defensive team is always something we pride ourselves in being. And having Kia Nurse and Moriah Jefferson up front with Gabby in the middle, three really good athletes, allows us to do a lot of things.


”Now, it might not be good enough to defend Ohio State. They have guards that are hard to defend. But for now, I kind of like where we are.”

 

[RockyMTblue2]

Slu, you said Katie Lou compared to KML was "not as consistent, game by game. She has more highs and lows from what I've seen".

Certainly not the senior KML. But her freshman season? She was very inconsistent game by game. Here are her game by game 3 point shooting.

0-7, 5-6, 3-8, 2-6, 0-5, 6-8, 5-8, 2-8, 3-8, 3-8, 1-5, 4-7, 0-6, 2-5, 1-2, 3-5, 3-13, 2-5, 5-7, 2-9, 1-6, 2-6, 3-7, 1-6, 3-9, 2-5, 3-8, 3-5, 5-9, 0-1, 5-6, 4-8, 1-4, 2-6, 2-5, 2-5, 2-7, 0-3.



I bolded the 17 games where she shot 33% or less. She had 21 games that were over 33%. I would consider that consistent game by game. And she had one LONG 6 game streak where she went 12-43 for 28%. I can only imagine what will be said that if Lou does that. And she might.



You also said Lou wasn't involved much in the offense because she only took mostly three point shots. If Geno didn't want her doing it, I would guess he would have told her to stop. She took open threes and she is a great shooter. I was happy she kept shooting. She also set several good screens and had 5 assists. Nurse only had 3. Her shooting threes is part of the offense.



The good news for Katie Lou is she hasn't taken a 3 pointer in a real game yet. Her percentage is starting from scratch.

BUT, I'm glad to see you are starting to think that burying KLS early may be a bad call.

 

[Gus Mahler]

I don't know how Katie Lou is feeling, but I have to believe both she and Ekmark are feeling a lot of pressure to get in a game and make some threes. Hope it (pressure) doesn't hinder their progress.

 

[Kaizen]

I don't know how Katie Lou is feeling, but I have believe both she and Ekmark are feeling a lot of pressure to get in a game and make some threes. Hope it (pressure) doesn't hinder their progress.

The ball size is bigger, and some new rules would make people not comfortable...

 

[UcMiami]

Based on watching her elsewhere as well. Don't think she's going to have the consistency that KML had, but that's my guess. We shall see.

As far as minutes are concerned, I didn't single out KLS' minutes. Was referring to the entire team distribution.

Well based on the elsewhere that is available to us for direct comparison - their HS team - KLS was both more prolific and more proficient as a senior than KML was in any of her years.

As for the OSU game - just a reminder, KML began her career at Uconn 0-7 from three against Holy Cross in a 40 point rout. She came back the next game and hit 5-6 in a 59 point rout of Pacific, and follow those games with 3-8, 2-6, and 0-5 for a five game stretch of 10-32 or 31%. It is never all roses in the life of a shooter!

 

[Sluconn Husky]

You also said Lou wasn't involved much in the offense because she only took mostly three point shots. If Geno didn't want her doing it, I would guess he would have told her to stop. She took open threes and she is a great shooter. I was happy she kept shooting. She also set several good screens and had 5 assists. Nurse only had 3. Her shooting threes is part of the offense.

She has 5 assists in the two games combined, not in yesterday's game. I still didn't see her do much but shoot threes, and while it's fine to say that's part of the reason she is at UConn, I'd think everyone including her would hope she can be more. Threes are her specialty. Hopefully, she becomes more integrated into the offense in other ways; it will only help the team.

BUT, I'm glad to see you are starting to think that burying KLS early may be a bad call.

Not sure what this means. I haven't said anything about "burying" Samuelson in any way.

 

[Sluconn Husky]

Well based on the elsewhere that is available to us for direct comparison - their HS team - KLS was both more prolific and more proficient as a senior than KML was in any of her years.

Actually, Lou was far more efficient shooting as a junior. Part of that probably had to do with taking fewer shots but her percentages were much better than they were as a senior. I can't find expanded stats for KML during her HS years. Either way, nobody is arguing KLS can't shoot. I just get the feeling she's more bang or bust than KML based on what I've seen the past year or so. Might not turn out that way.

 

[RockyMTblue2]

She has 5 assists in the two games combined, not in yesterday's game. I still didn't see her do much but shoot threes, and while it's fine to say that's part of the reason she is at UConn, I'd think everyone including her would hope she can be more. Threes are her specialty. Hopefully, she becomes more integrated into the offense in other ways; it will only help the team.



Not sure what this means. I haven't said anything about "burying" Samuelson in any way.

Sure. Okay. I must have read those posts all wrong. But, then, many of us only see what we want to see.

 

[Sluconn Husky]

Sure. Okay. I must have read those posts all wrong. But, then, many of us only see what we want to see.

Seems to be the case. The only things I've said about her are she doesn't appear to be comfortable/integrated in the offense yet, and she strikes me as being more hit-and-miss on her long range shooting per game. But I also said the latter is just a feeling based on some observation. Nothing is set in stone.

 

[RockyMTblue2]

I just get the feeling she's more bang or bust than KML based on what I've seen the past year or so. Might not turn out that way.

Is that a waffle or a scone?

 

[Sluconn Husky]

Is that a waffle or a scone?

Guess it's a waffle.

 

[hoophuskee]

Based on what I have read from our excellent posters, I believe KLS is trying to adjust to the college game, including speed and expectations. She clearly was comfortable in AAU and International play from a movement and positioning standpoint. Conversely, it sounds like she is not yet comfortable with those things at UCONN. On the other hand, Pheese sounds like she has adjusted much better so far as evidenced by her double double yesterday. And now the season begins for Geno to work is magic aiming toward April!

I wouldn't put too much stock in these two games. NC and GW can pound these type of teams with their eyes closed. They are so much more athletic. KLS was shooting bombs. She goes 7-9 - the suddenly she is the hero.

I'm elated Gabby is knocking down free throws. And listening a little bit to the game I would hear "Steal by Gabby." "Steal by Williams."