Tennessee v. Oregon State at 9PM on PAC12

[JoePgh]

It must be noted that Diamond's individual skills as a basketball player, as shown last night, are extremely impressive. As an individual performer, I am not sure that Maya was better as a sophomore. Diamond wasn't attempting 3's last night (the whole LV team must have sworn off them for the game), but as far as individual skills are concerned, she could star on any team in WCBB, including UConn. Whether she is truly committed to team play, well, that is another question.

It's become a familiar refrain concerning LV teams, but at the level of individual skills, Tennessee's top 3 of Russell / Graves / Deshields is probably second in WCBB only to Stewie / Moriah / "Tuck". There is no reason why this should not be a Top 10 team, even Top 5. And 2 members of the Volunteer "triumvirate" should be back next year.

Generally also, Tennessee's press was working well; it produced over 20 Beaver turnovers. Their half-court defense seemed to be porous, however, allowing several uncontested layups and 3-point attempts.

Diamond made a comment after the game to the effect that the team's play in recent games had "put a lot of pressure on Holly", and they were determined to relieve that pressure. If she really meant that, it's a good sign.

 

[stwainfan]

Joe yes Diamond has been blessed. With some great athletic ability and skills. I don't think she is 100% yet. I do think the game had been coming back to her. I think she will continue to improve. That's great news for Tennessee. That she can be that player we expect to see.