Geno Auriemma on Nika Mühl: “She’s had an incredible year … Nika’s our identity. She’s the one that drives us.”
How much pressure do you think this kid is under this season? She's been asked to play more minutes than any other teammate and all but 9 minutes in the last 10 games, (6 minute break in one game and one minute each in three others), the team has been working through a rough patch and you're coach says you are the 'identity' of the team and 'the one that drives us'
Nika isn't immune to all the struggles that her teammates have endured (limited help from the bench, injures to key teammates, physical, mental and emotional fatigue). Even as Geno finds a few minutes here and there to rest the other starters, Nika remains on the floor. I don't believe it is because Geno doesn't feel she needs a break - IMO it's because he doesn't feel he can not have her on the floor.
In various press conferences throughout the season she has said she welcomes pressure and the challenges placed on her, but despite her reputation for endless energy and a no quit attitude, she actually is human so, IMO, it has to be a heavy burden to carry.
Hopefully Azzi will return soon, Caroline will continue to get back to the player she was and the other reserves will build on the contributions they are now making. If we can get back to full strength TO's should drop, assists rise, offensive production increase and we can finish out the seasons with smiles and joy..... and Nika might get a breather here and there.