Maryland (12) @ Northwestern - 12/31/19

[DefenseBB]

Very surprised that Mikesell is still shooting at 44% from distance after her 1/6 performance yesterday and reading the Maryland message boards that stated that she was in a "major sophomore slump." I looked it up and you are spot on.

She is averaging 2.2 points per game less than she did as a frosh, but her shooting percentages are similar to what she did last season. I guess the Maryland fans are looking for a scapegoat for the squad's three early losses. Or, it could be a recency opinion because she is a combined 2/17 overall in her last two games. She is a quality shooter and puts in the time on that part of her game.

I don't know if it is a slump or the fact Osuwu is now on the team and handling the ball as much or more than Mikesell. Personally, I am not a fan of Osuwu as she does not always play in a "team concept" but she is talented. There is definitely a "chemistry" issue going on with Maryland. Charles is supposed to be "the Star player" but I have thought she's a tad over-rated and is capable of being shut down with modicum effort. To me, Mikesell and Austin should be the focus, with Watson, Jones and Charles as strong supports. Bring Osuwu and Masonius off the bench as energizer bunnies to spell the starters, provide offense and defense. I like Faith a lot and wish she would get more time. Alas, Brenda has her own curious patterns...

 

[TerpWomenFan]

To me, Mikesell and Austin should be the focus,

I couldn't disagree with you more. Mikesell has no ability to break defenses and create her own shot. Other than the floater she uses every now and then, she is a very limited player. She caught the Big 10 off guard last season and now the good teams know how to play her.

Austin is extremely talented and works hard but at this time she has a low basketball IQ. She hasn't learned how to pass out of a double team and forces alot of shots. Also as little as she handles the ball she is a turnover machine. Once she cleans up her game, she will be an excellent player. Maybe an All American. I do believe Maryland can run the offense through Austin if she passes it out once the double team comes. This season Charles and Watson are the Terps best players. Watson is extremely underrated.

 

[Checkmate 2.0]

I tried to tell yall that Northwestern was a good team, but apparently yall dont listen to guys with bags over their heads.

Good teams do not lose by 26 at home to unranked teams. Iowa 77 NW 51 today.