Time for Nika to shine!

[jdote33]

Nika is so great. Really nature. Has an inner confidence and toughness about her.

 

[The deacon]

Nika is so great. Really nature. Has an inner confidence and toughness about her.

What a wonderful video. If she helps inspire girls in Croatia to a better life, she should be a legend there!

 

[Carnac]

At a halftime interview last season, Geno quipped "Nika picks up one or two fouls during the pregame warmup."

I think Nika will step it up this year, because she is that kind of kid. And there's no way she'll want to let down her slime.

The consensus seems to be that Nika MUST tighten up her game. She will be perceived as a leader as an upperclassman. She must be ready to play 29-33 minutes a night. She must stay on the floor (especially in the first half) by staying out of foul trouble. She’s got 4 fouls to give. She must choose wisely when to risk a foul (choose her battles).

There will be nights when Nika will be whistled for two fouls before the seats are warm. Those nights the reserves must be ready to make a significant contribution minute and production wise.

Her back up should see significant playing time. She’s aggressive but must play under control by realizing she’s more valuable to Geno and the team if she can stay on the floor. The longer Nika is in the game, the better our chances are of winning the game.

 

[Zarathustra]

Nika is so great. Really nature. Has an inner confidence and toughness about her.

I believe Nika's little sister, Hana, is now planning to play for BALL STATE, no??
Hana's first Verbal Commitment was to one the schools in the Illinois system,
Urbana?? I plan to follow Hana!! Go Huskies! Go Muhl sisters!

 

[Bald Husky]

I believe Nika's little sister, Hana, is now planning to play for BALL STATE, no??
Hana's first Verbal Commitment was to one the schools in the Illinois system,
Urbana?? I plan to follow Hana!! Go Huskies! Go Muhl sisters!

I believe she committed to the University of Illinois and opted out after the coaching change. Dam, we could have used her.

 

[Longtime fan]

Every UConn WBB fan loves Nika’s combination of toughness, relentless defensive effort and leadership. She also pushes the ball up the court in transition with a furious pace. But with the injury to Paige, Nika’s role with the Huskies will change significantly. This past season, UConn had as many as 3 capable pg’s: Paige, Evina & Nika. As of right now, Nika is the sole pg for UConn this upcoming season. In a pinch, Azzi and Lou could certainly fill in at pg, but Nika will be the primary option at pg. As such, there are several things she will need to focus on:

• Take care of the ball. Nika had a problem as a freshman with some careless passes. She was much better as a sophomore and hopefully will continue to improve as a junior.
• Stay out of foul trouble. We all know that Nika believes she never commits a foul. Unfortunately, the refs don’t necessarily agree. UConn needs Nika on the court for 30+ minutes a game. She can’t play those kinds of minutes if she’s on the bench in foul trouble.
• Improve her ability to score. Geno has tasked Nika with working on her shooting this off season. In order to be effective at pg, she can’t allow defenses to play off of her.
• Stay healthy! Nika’s all out style of play has resulted in more than a few injuries during her first two seasons in Storrs. UConn needs Nika to be healthy and on the court.

I’m going to go out in the limb here. I think Nika will step up this coming season, earning 1st team all-conference honors while leading the Huskies to yet another FF. Of course I may be incorrect. But optimism costs nothing at this point in time.

" In a pinch ...?" We are in a pinch. The team will deal as best they are able. Good luck.

 

[Bone Dog]

Nika reminds me, and probably others, of Kelly Faris. She has a similar ferocity on D. Faris wasn’t stuck playing point guard and she was a little better at finishing at the rim and perhaps a better rebounder. Otherwise, their contributions to the team seem similar. Nika can turn the tide in a close game, provide a spark that ignites something, and this is just what Faris did so often. Above all, each of them just brought so much energy to the floor. And whoever they were assigned to guard would end up demoralized.

 

[JoePgh]

Nika reminds me, and probably others, of Kelly Faris. She has a similar ferocity on D. Faris wasn’t stuck playing point guard and she was a little better at finishing at the rim and perhaps a better rebounder. Otherwise, their contributions to the team seem similar. Nika can turn the tide in a close game, provide a spark that ignites something, and this is just what Faris did so often. Above all, each of them just brought so much energy to the floor. And whoever they were assigned to guard would end up demoralized.

You are right, and I would add that Kia Nurse is another apt comparison. Her 3-point shot would come and go, but her defense and her hustle were constant. All three of these players (Kelly, Kia, and Nika) were team players through and through, and Geno had to persuade them to take their own personal offensive skills more seriously.

 

[JellyBean]

No one player will make up for the loss of Paige. The sentiment for Nika should be applied to everyone on the team. Imagine what the season would be like if Dorka, Azzi, Caroline, lou, Aliyah, Aubrey along with Nika had outstanding seasons.

Yup. This isn't all on Nika. Every member of the team has to play their game. If everyone is 100% healthy and the team has developed a solid chemistry and understands their role within the team concept, good things are going to happen, all the while lifting up Paige and keeping her in the team mix.

 

[TCC Kid]

I always agree, my take on Nika is different. I believe you overlooked a great Point guard in Caroline. No Geno never used her as such. However, if you watch all the games she played, she is an excellent passer. She sees the court extremely well, she is a quick learner. She shoots the three and drives with the best of them, sometimes a bit carefreely. (is there a word?)

Nika, is exceptionally better in 2 areas: Shooting and not fouling (as much). She will be better in both this year. If you expect an "all out--give it your all--take no prisoners" to change drastically--you really don't want that to happen. What is great about Nika is--NIKA.

Nika shall never ever be PAIGE. She came to us when we needed her and she drove this team to victories we were not expected to win. The same is true of Caroline. Geno is loyal, Geno hates to lose, Geno adapts (some never thought so, we've seen proof), and he'll adapt his players. The great ones excel, the not so great find another team. Nika, is working on being great.

Oldude, please accept my apology for "Cheerleading for Nika and Caroline". I believe!

 

[TCC Kid]

I don’t think Nika’s assists and her ability to finish in the lane and whether she has a pop-up midrange jumper are not separate issues. If she’s not a scoring threat inside, she won’t be able to draw other defenders in to help so she can pass to the perimeter shooters.

Currently, Azzi can get her own shot off the dribble, as can Caroline and Lou to a lesser extent. But the offense can’t reach peak potential if they have to do that all the time. Nika doesn’t have to be MoJeff to contribute in this way. But it wouldn’t hurt if she could channel just a little of Mo’s spirit and confidence.

Mojef was one of my favorites. Nika is a totally different body style. Aerodynamics aren't part of Nika as they were with Mojeff. When your center of gravity is low, you don't float through the air with the greatest of ease. You don't easily stop and pop to do that you need speed and Nika at time reaches supersonic, but not in the pack in the lane. Mojeff could. A Stanford Professor says often, it is becoming my Mantra: You don't need to be perfect to be good.
Most things AZZI, I believe. When she breaks the Freshman ice, look out!

 

[TCC Kid]

I've got to admit I've been reticent to write a reply such as you have, BobbyJ, not so much as to avoid the inevitable shots against the bow from Nika's many fans, but more so because we're all reeling from Paige's latest injury and I figured why bother to quell whatever enthusiasm or future hope any fellow BYer might have.

That said, I believe you're spot on. I've been amazed at how many people have advocated for more minutes for Nika right from the start of her UConn career, when her on-court performance and its impact on the Huskies' fortunes don't merit it. The myths of how she is the reason for UConn's successes are just that.

Nika is so amazingly likable and charismatic that I understand why she's a fan favorite but, in spite of Geno's words of praise, I find it hard to conceive he'd trust the Huskies' season to her as the chief point guard. By committee, whatever one might want to call it, is the way they'll need to go.

Along with everyone else, I'll be rooting for Nika to be substantially improved and enjoy a strong season but, as BobbyJ said, she just hasn't shown topflight point guard talent... attitude and energy, yes, but not the skills.

Not a shot across your bow. Nika,I've defended her here, because I see what you don't see. Personality,drive, determination. She just won't accept defeat. Geno sees that too. Or is he wrong in playing her when games are on the losing side of the W collumn? I respect your opinion, and your right to express it. My opinion is different. However, while it is fun to state those opinions here--GENO and probably only GENO will determine Nika's playing time. No offense intended.

 

[CL82]

I always agree, my take on Nika is different. I believe you overlooked a great Point guard in Caroline. No Geno never used her as such. However, if you watch all the games she played, she is an excellent passer. She sees the court extremely well, she is a quick learner. She shoots the three and drives with the best of them, sometimes a bit carefreely. (is there a word?)

Nika, is exceptionally better in 2 areas: Shooting and not fouling (as much). She will be better in both this year. If you expect an "all out--give it your all--take no prisoners" to change drastically--you really don't want that to happen. What is great about Nika is--NIKA.

Nika shall never ever be PAIGE. She came to us when we needed her and she drove this team to victories we were not expected to win. The same is true of Caroline. Geno is loyal, Geno hates to lose, Geno adapts (some never thought so, we've seen proof), and he'll adapt his players. The great ones excel, the not so great find another team. Nika, is working on being great.

Oldude, please accept my apology for "Cheerleading for Nika and Caroline". I believe!

I don’t feel like Caroline has the handle to be a point guard per se. But the hallmarks of an Auriemma team are movement and passing. So, to an extent, everyone’s going to take turns filling that role.

 

[Bone Dog]

Nika,I've defended her here, because I see what you don't see. Personality,drive, determination. She just won't accept defeat. Geno sees that too. Or is he wrong in playing her when games are on the losing side of the W collumn?

To the contrary, in March Geno often left Nika on the bench at crunch time, or occasionally used an offense-defense platoon. Why? It's a deep mystery, but it may have something to do with her scoring limitations. In the 4th quarter, when teams are evenly matched, and both teams are locked in, we can't afford to play 4 on 5 in the half court offense.

However, while it is fun to state those opinions here--GENO and probably only GENO will determine Nika's playing time.

You're not being serious here, I hope. Because I'm waiting for my paycheck as Geno's BY consultant.

But the hallmarks of an Auriemma team are movement and passing. So, to an extent, everyone’s going to take turns filling that role.

Truer words were never spoke, nor writ. This is what Stanford runs, too, a positionless offense. Watching games from the Stewie-Steph years, the speed of the passing game is stunning. We haven't often matched that in the last two seasons.

 

[TCC Kid]

To the contrary, in March Geno often left Nika on the bench at crunch time, or occasionally used an offense-defense platoon. Why? It's a deep mystery, but it may have something to do with her scoring limitations. In the 4th quarter, when teams are evenly matched, and both teams are locked in, we can't afford to play 4 on 5 in the half court offense.


You're not being serious here, I hope. Because I'm waiting for my paycheck as Geno's BY consultant.


Truer words were never spoke, nor writ. This is what Stanford runs, too, a positionless offense. Watching games from the Stewie-Steph years, the speed of the passing game is stunning. We haven't often matched that in the last two seasons.

I like what you say. As for Nika on the bench. There is a time for Nika and a time not for Nika. Which can be true of each player. Geno, also, feeling a bit snake bit--with all the injuries, may have been keeping her in reserve, knowing in those games her--SPARK would not be needed. As much as I like Nika--she isn't Paige, Caroline, or CW. Her talent is in her desire --her never give in never give up. SPARK.
Every sidelining isn't a physical injury, yet physical. Geno, allows his players some level of privacy. Personally, I have no need to know why any player isn't playing, yet I'm curious

 

[TCC Kid]

The consensus seems to be that Nika MUST tighten up her game. She will be perceived as a leader as an upperclassman. She must be ready to play 29-33 minutes a night. She must stay on the floor (especially in the first half) by staying out of foul trouble. She’s got 4 fouls to give. She must choose wisely when to risk a foul (choose her battles).

There will be nights when Nika will be whistled for two fouls before the seats are warm. Those nights the reserves must be ready to make a significant contribution minute and production wise.

Her back up should see significant playing time. She’s aggressive but must play under control by realizing she’s more valuable to Geno and the team if she can stay on the floor. The longer Nika is in the game, the better our chances are of winning the game.

 

[TCC Kid]

To the contrary, in March Geno often left Nika on the bench at crunch time, or occasionally used an offense-defense platoon. Why? It's a deep mystery, but it may have something to do with her scoring limitations. In the 4th quarter, when teams are evenly matched, and both teams are locked in, we can't afford to play 4 on 5 in the half court offense.


You're not being serious here, I hope. Because I'm waiting for my paycheck as Geno's BY consultant.
******* I was stating the obvious. However, if you can actually get that paycheck--accept it, 52 goes in to 4.5 million how many times? Nice weekly stipend.

Truer words were never spoke, nor writ. This is what Stanford runs, too, a positionless offense. Watching games from the Stewie-Steph years, the speed of the passing game is stunning. We haven't often matched that in the last two seasons.

 

[Bone Dog]

@TCC Kid you appear to have inserted your reply within the quote you meant to reply to.

 

[Beemer]

UCONNWBBWEEKLY.SUBSTACK.COM
UConn WBB Weekly: With Paige Bueckers out, Nika Mühl is now UConn’s most important player
The junior is the only true point guard on the Huskies’ roster, which means she’ll need to cut down on fouls and turnovers while improving her scoring ability.

 

[Bone Dog]

UCONNWBBWEEKLY.SUBSTACK.COM
UConn WBB Weekly: With Paige Bueckers out, Nika Mühl is now UConn’s most important player
The junior is the only true point guard on the Huskies’ roster, which means she’ll need to cut down on fouls and turnovers while improving her scoring ability.

Here's a quote from Geno that has been on all of our minds all summer long:
“Nika has to be better offensively — more consistent offensively,” Geno Auriemma said in June. “Just to be more of a threat offensively so that people guard her more and there’s less leaving her to go double someone else.”

 

[TCC Kid]

Oldude, no disrespect, just a question or 3.

1. In what respect, and how does Nika "Tighten up her game"? You mentioned fouling, maybe she can but not by any order of magnitude. What else?

2. As a human affected by many ingrained, born in, heredity inflicted traits, I've tried to change SOME without substantial luck. For a moment here and there, that change will come through. In times of stress and pressure, old me pops up without thinking. BB is stress/pressure at times.
As a Human watcher, I believe my characteristics approach impossibility to change, Nika too.

3. Nika, because shooting is hand-eye coordination, and SOME physical characteristics can change, she may improve her shooting. She'll never ever be on the scale of Paige, Caroline, or AZZI.

4. I suggest that those things Geno and us fans like about Nika are those same traits some want her to change. To reduce a trait is near impossible, more success comes in eliminating it and that is rare.

5. Tame her, play her against certain teams, it is easier for Geno to adjust his way of using Nika, I suggest, than to change her. Personality, is built in, you can back ground it for a while--but you always come out when least desirable.

 

[oldude]

Oldude, no disrespect, just a question or 3.

1. In what respect, and how does Nika "Tighten up her game"? You mentioned fouling, maybe she can but not by any order of magnitude. What else?

2. As a human affected by many ingrained, born in, heredity inflicted traits, I've tried to change SOME without substantial luck. For a moment here and there, that change will come through. In times of stress and pressure, old me pops up without thinking. BB is stress/pressure at times.
As a Human watcher, I believe my characteristics approach impossibility to change, Nika too.

3. Nika, because shooting is hand-eye coordination, and SOME physical characteristics can change, she may improve her shooting. She'll never ever be on the scale of Paige, Caroline, or AZZI.

4. I suggest that those things Geno and us fans like about Nika are those same traits some want her to change. To reduce a trait is near impossible, more success comes in eliminating it and that is rare.

5. Tame her, play her against certain teams, it is easier for Geno to adjust his way of using Nika, I suggest, than to change her. Personality, is built in, you can back ground it for a while--but you always come out when least desirable.

I didn’t use the term “tighten up her game.” But I did outline 4 areas of focus for Nika this coming season: take care of the ball, stay out of foul trouble, improve her scoring & stay healthy. Unless you haven’t been watching, Nika was much better as a sophomore than she was as a freshman in all these areas, something that we’ve come to expect of everyone that ever played in Geno’s system.

I absolutely expect Nika to continue to improve in all areas as a junior. That expectation is not wishful thinking or blind hope. It is an absolutely reasonable belief based on my observations of 36 years of successful player development by the greatest coach in WBB.

 

[hoophuskee]

UCONNWBBWEEKLY.SUBSTACK.COM
UConn WBB Weekly: With Paige Bueckers out, Nika Mühl is now UConn’s most important player
The junior is the only true point guard on the Huskies’ roster, which means she’ll need to cut down on fouls and turnovers while improving her scoring ability.

Did this come from Geno? Or the writer's opinion?

To me, Azzi Fudd is the most important player.

And imo Lou is very, very high up depending on what she can do. Not that she is 2nd best player. But she might not even play which puts big pressure on the others to being an impact player which would mean at all times UCONN would have at least two fine perimeter scorers (not just shooters).

 

[TCC Kid]

I didn’t use the term “tighten up her game.” But I did outline 4 areas of focus for Nika this coming season: take care of the ball, stay out of foul trouble, improve her scoring & stay healthy. Unless you haven’t been watching, Nika was much better as a sophomore than she was as a freshman in all these areas, something that we’ve come to expect of everyone that ever played in Geno’s system.

I absolutely expect Nika to continue to improve in all areas as a junior. That expectation is not wishful thinking or blind hope. It is an absolutely reasonable belief based on my observations of 36 years of successful player development by the greatest coach in WBB.

If I misquoted you, my apology. 2 of your 4, may not entirely be within her control. ball handling and scoring may see MINOR improvements. I'm a fan of NIKA from the start. As a junior, using past history of a few hundred Uconn Huskies as my models, at this point in their careers, Juniors are expected to be teachers, minimal students.
With anyone other than Nika, Id say she is what she is. Nika is a never quit kid. We'll see. In any case I expect to see her with good minutes.

Your term was Focus on, not tighten up. Another poster used tighten up. I shouldn't have used the quotes " " . Ms Novak, my English teacher told me I get in trouble using quotes. in 1898.