I was at the game, and first off a few things about the arena. It is noticeably better. Everything - walls and seats - are in a charcoal grey color and it gives the arena a darker feel, even as the lighting seems better. This is not a criticism, I think it works. The seats, at least our seats in Section 106, are more comfortable and seem a bit wider.
There are what I refer to as the "monster seats" along the sidelines just above the first level. Two rows with small counters in front, and the seats are similar to what you get in a relatively new movie theater without the recline feature. nice enough. I tried to sit in one with about five minutes left just to see what would happen and I was politely told to scram. Which is interesting in that in prior years no one at XL gave a rat's *** where you sat.
The sound system seems much better. Conor was conspicuous by his absence. Is he gone for good or is it just because this was an exhibition game? The arena announcer was different as well, and he has a daytime game show host quality to his delivery. The whole thing felt a little more corporate than the minor league baseball feel that I am used to at that venue.
I did not notice anything significantly different in the concession area, other than perhaps a new concession stand on the north end of the arena. It does have more of a blueish feel with the signage.
Things are switched around - the benches are on the other side of the court, and the student section is on the other end of the court. I think there are more seats at floor level, at least more than I remember. Three or four rows, including a row directly behind the opponent's bench. I am sure those seats go for quite a lot of $, but I think one is better off with something more elevated. For example, I would hate to be directly behind the opponent's bench, as you can't very well tell the players to sit down. It may be that those seats go to boosters of the opponent.
Oh there was a game being played. Some observations - stifling defense, Fudd automatic and smooth as silk, Allie looking good! The press is weakened when the opposing center is allowed to bring the ball up, Serah has to be defending full court as well. I think Geno can easily go ten deep if he wants to.
I think a message went out to this group to get in the best shape you possibly can. Message received. They all look amazing. Somewhat surprisingly the one who stood out the most to me was KK, who is noticeably thinner and (presumably for that reason) seems taller. That probably means increased quickness, when she was pretty darn quick to begin with.
Sometimes the things you notice are unusual. For example, I noticed that the super quick Kelis and the ultra athletic Blanca both have very long arms. Part of the reason they will defend well and get a lot of steals.
Decent crowd for an exhibition game, not nearly filled but respectable.
