On defense, correct, the teams are close although I acknowledge SC’s stronger strength of schedule. On offense - so many people have freaked out about mere 25 point wins, they haven’t noticed UConn is actually pretty good.
Yes, of course, I was referring to Jana and Ice whose minutes would be limited, and not to Sarah and Aubrey, the latter of whose minutes would be limited for other reasons..
The statistic that says it all about SC’s biggest threat is #shots taken- they lead the country. This is due to relentless rebounding since shooting percentage has them at #19 versus UConn at #1. Aubrey’s return will definitely help with rebounding, but limiting turnovers and boxing out will determine who wins that game.
The interesting thing about SC’s rebounding is that nearly half come from their guards, more than half in some games. For example, in the blowout of OU, 22 of their 42 rebounds, and 5 of their 15 O-boards. Boxing out will be key, but it may not be a matter of boxing out their bigs. In this sort of rebounding environment, I think you’re right about Aubrey making a difference, as well as Morgan Ash and KK, who are all active rebounders. We’ll see if they’re up to this challenge.