UCLA Postgame Thread | Page 4 | The Boneyard

UCLA Postgame Thread

oldude said:
Some thoughts on the UCLA game:

  • Like UConn, UCLA is dealing with injuries to key players while trying to figure things out. Both teams had really good and really bad stretches. In the end UConn was able to grind out what felt like a really important win for the Huskies today.
  • Evina pretty much kept UConn in the game single-handedly in the first half, leading the Huskies in points, rebounds and assists.
  • UConn’s 11-2 “mini-run” at the end of the second quarter was huge heading into halftime.
  • Dorka was tremendous today with 16 & 16. She provided some really big minutes in the second half, particularly with Liv in foul trouble.
  • UConn had a distinct size advantage in today’s game. But the team struggled to get the ball into the paint in the first half, and when they did, inexplicably, the Huskies continued to miss way too many layups.
  • If there was ever one player who shouldn’t “overthink” things, it’s Christyn. You could just sense the pressure she feels, particularly with Paige out. When Christyn finally hit a layup, after missing her first attempt, it was like the weight of the world had been removed from her shoulders.
  • There are good technical fouls and there are bad technical fouls. Geno's T defending Evina after she got hammered was a good T. UConn responded to a terrible "no call" in a big way.
  • UConn won this game on the defensive end, holding UCLA to 33% shooting, and also with some great work on the boards in the second half. I guess the Huskies proved that that they can close a tough game without Paige on the court, sort of.....:confused:
  • One thing mentioned before the game is that UConn has had only one practice without Paige. The Huskies now have a week off to get through finals and reset themselves for another big matchup vs Louisville in 8 days. Foul shooting and layup practice next week. :rolleyes:
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Good image of the game. Nothing to disagree with here.
The real plus for me was 6 Uconn Women scored. 5 in double figures. Caroline is getting better with each game, so is Dorka. A few days ago I would have trashed Dorka. This game shows she can score, can defend, can hit the boards. Caroline plays good defense, if spotty. Her three when she takes a second line up is near perfect if she just catches and shoot, not so good, but that will come. She drives well. Her long arms gets blocks.
Evina, she did in this game what I had hoped she'd be from November. She's a leader. With Paige on the floor she defers to Paige a bit too much. Uconn needs 5 Aggressive, shooting/scoring starters deference when you can't shoot or defend. Take the shot if you are open. Don't look around SHOOT. I think Caroline, defers a bit, but when she's hitting she shoots. That's good for her, Geno, Uconn.
 
Just returned from the game ...........not sure how much of it could be seen on tv but from row number two there was a whole lot of body contact out there today........ONO and Dorka were both banging hard against a pretty decent UCLA interior defense.......I've never seen ONO so animated before......she was really aggressive.............for those that think this team is not giving max effort I can assure you they are...........it certainly would have been much more fun if Paige and the other walking wounded were available but I give this group great credit for toughing this one out...............btw has anybody mentioned that Aubrey was in the layup line today?
 
LarryLegend said:
if I was her father, I would beg her to go into coaching and not try to play professionally
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If I were her father, I'd tell her if you want the Wnba and they want you, go for it. You can always coach later if that is your choice. When you graduate from Uconn W C B B you can do what ever floats your boat. Your life is your's I lived mine, I needn't live yours. I've made that speech multiple times to my own (except the Uconn/Wnba parts)
 
eebmg said:
and that Quality 3pt shot in the corner to go up 14. Caroline is going to be a great one. She looks like she knows what she is doing.
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one thing I like about Caroline is that she is not afraid to shoot or go to the basket. When was the last time (other than Paige) does Uconn has a freshman like that? Even Azzi is more hesitant in shooting the ball.
 
Kaizen said:
Good decision Geno to let Carolina started this game. Carolina is good today.
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I was surprised at the number of times she lost the ball trying to drive in or around the baseline. Geno has sad repeatedly that she’s really really good, but I thought she was good in spurts.
 
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oldude said:
Some thoughts on the UCLA game:

  • Like UConn, UCLA is dealing with injuries to key players while trying to figure things out. Both teams had really good and really bad stretches. In the end UConn was able to grind out what felt like a really important win for the Huskies today.
  • Evina pretty much kept UConn in the game single-handedly in the first half, leading the Huskies in points, rebounds and assists.
  • UConn’s 11-2 “mini-run” at the end of the second quarter was huge heading into halftime.
  • Dorka was tremendous today with 16 & 16. She provided some really big minutes in the second half, particularly with Liv in foul trouble.
  • UConn had a distinct size advantage in today’s game. But the team struggled to get the ball into the paint in the first half, and when they did, inexplicably, the Huskies continued to miss way too many layups.
  • If there was ever one player who shouldn’t “overthink” things, it’s Christyn. You could just sense the pressure she feels, particularly with Paige out. When Christyn finally hit a layup, after missing her first attempt, it was like the weight of the world had been removed from her shoulders.
  • There are good technical fouls and there are bad technical fouls. Geno's T defending Evina after she got hammered was a good T. UConn responded to a terrible "no call" in a big way.
  • UConn won this game on the defensive end, holding UCLA to 33% shooting, and also with some great work on the boards in the second half. I guess the Huskies proved that that they can close a tough game without Paige on the court, sort of.....:confused:
  • One thing mentioned before the game is that UConn has had only one practice without Paige. The Huskies now have a week off to get through finals and reset themselves for another big matchup vs Louisville in 8 days. Foul shooting and layup practice next week. :rolleyes:
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I always write my thoughts on Old Dude's post because I am respectful of his views ( and I am probably older ). But I don't read his material until after I post mine ( to be independent, and uninfluenced). Here goes:

1. I mis-read the team today. Midway in the second quarter, I thought it was a certain loss.
2. The team really began to " fight back." They will need to fight hard the rest of the way.
3. Ducharmes is getting valuable experience and her confidence will grow. As it does, her offense will become more impactful. But she is working and contributing already.
4. Great to see a better Dorka. I think when she hit the " three" ...her confidence soared. And she fought for rebounds like a tiger. She made a difference in this game. For the first time, really.
5. Olivia also battled and played well. The team needs to play angry and she did.
6. Edwards still cannot hit a shot to save herself. Not even very reliable under the basket. But she battled today. She showed more energy and determination. Results were limited. But the direction of her game was better. Man, do we need her to soar again.
7. Williams just needs to figure out how to be a part of this. When she plays defense and scores by driving to the hoop...it calms her down. And she then starts hitting her outside shot. Her mistakes come when she decides she is going to take a shot, even when it isn't there. Even when she is surrounded by the entire UCLA team...And she loses the ball. C'mon, girl. Settle down. We need you at your best. Which is really good.
8. DeBarry is getting a taste. And that is positive. And a surprise. We all want to see more.
9. Mir seems buried on the bench, doesn't she? I wonder if she'll ever fight her way onto this team? It is not a good sign to get no role when the team is thin and desperate.
10. I think it is a big deal that they came back and held on to win. They still are too prone to unforced errors. I counted at least three times they lost the ball because they dribbled off of their own sneakers, and another three where it was a case of bad hands. But transitioning from dependence on one player may be at a start. It wasn't even an idea in the GT loss.
11. Westbrook was the stabilizing influence and the courage. The team took nourishment from her performance. I fear overwork, but she is a gem.
12. Finally, the team gets to breathe. And some practice time. Next game is Dec. 17, I think. This was a good day for them.

It was fun to watch them fight.
 
A lot of people were questioning whether Geno could coach and/or the team could play. Last game they had known for 3 days or so that they wouldn't have their all-world point guard and 1 day that they wouldn't have their backup point guard. That game looked like it. The beginning of this one did, too. But they got it together.

Geno can coach, and the team can play.

Shoutout to Evina for keeping them in the game early and Dorka for doing what I knew she could do.
 
I am just so happy for the team to get this win today! OMG. Hearing all of the negative comments, can eat at your confidence and messes with your head. I am just so happy for all of them. Seeing Dorka shine out there. These are the types of games that fuel your confidence and it showed today. Love that she is always on the floor. Falling or just crashing into somebody. Just be safe out there, young lady.

Seeing Caroline attacking the basket more with each game, is just an awesome sight to see. Her confidence is growing. AE looked a little more comfortable out there. Loved that steal and layup. She is going to keep getting better each game/practice. Caroline Ducharme just has to keep attacking the rim. 4-13 wasn't pretty but it wasn't like she was forcing shots. Keep attacking the rim, Caroline Ducharme. Evina....the truth! She had that look the whole game. She was not going to let this team down. Love the fire this young lady has.

Looking at the stat sheet. This is what I was thinking that the team would look like back in the summer. That balanced scoring attack. You got five players with double figures. If this can continue, which I hope that it does, this is what we were all talking about this summer of "what could be" if the pieces all come together. Great win today. Huge boost to the mind and soul for these young ladies. I am just over here happy as heck from them.

Let's go, UConn!!
 
one other thought on the refs, for this whole year the refs seem to be calling tie ups very quickly. On one today it seemed like there was a fight for the ball, it was never tied up, we came away with it but the ref had already blown the whistle. Is this a change in focus this year?
 
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BostonBay said:
The post-game interview with geno was interesting. he said Dorka came to see him in his office and told him she was wandering on offense and didnt know where to be. Geno said go where you want to be & we'll find you & get you the ball. An example of simplifying the offense and playing to the players' strengths. Dorka was a beast inside today, even while getting hacked all day.
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Geno can still coach! Not simplifying but adapting.
 
Ralph said:
one other thought on the refs, for this whole year the refs seem to be calling tie ups very quickly. On one today it seemed like there was a fight for the ball, it was never tied up, we came away with it but the ref had already blown the whistle. Is this a change in focus this year?
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Yes. Evina ripped the ball out in about a nanosecond, and they called a held ball.
 
Centerstream said:
One thing that bothers me about Dorka is that she appears to lose the ball from her hands when nobody has touched it. But her overall game today was outstanding. And she looked like she was enjoying the game.
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Dorka overall is a plus contributer, but I agree her ability to hold onto the ball
is not one of her strengths.
 
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Heytherego said:
I have to say I’m really proud of this team. From the second quarter on they looked completely different, almost reinvigorated. I loved to see all the fight they showed even through adversity. Even Geno was showing some fight for his players. Fourth quarter got scary, but they pulled it off. Something they need to be better at going forward.

Dorka and Caroline really contributed to the win. Caroline took a lot and missed a lot, but the shots she hit were timely. She hit a big three going into half and then another big three in the fourth. I thought they both played really smart and made some key plays. Dorka had a big night and congrats to her; first UCONN double double and reached 1000 career points. Liv had another nice game, I really like the way she’s been playing this season. CW I thought was big in the fourth too, she just needs to put a whole game together. Evina carried this team early and did it all, gotta hit those free throws though.

Let’s hope we can keep this momentum going. It was a really good sign today to get a win with they players we had. Some of these wins may not be pretty, but if they played the way they did in the second quarter on I’ll be happy, even with a loss. I think Georgia Tech was so disappointing because it looked like no one wanted to be there or was even trying, I thought everyone was FIGHTING for that win today. With more practice they will continue to be more cohesive. Let’s close out the year strong and hope to see some injured players back soon.
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We all hope to see some injured players come back soon. But I don't think you'll see anyone before mid-January. And that report from Holly during the game on her research into Paige's injury ( or those similar) was very dismaying. It sounds like Paige will need far more than 6-8 weeks, and the need for surgery is likely. Not much point speculating until we have more facts from her medical team, but I am hopeful that, whatever therapy is needed, she can return 100% when ready. Even if it is not this season.
 
Bigboote said:
A lot of people were questioning whether Geno could coach and/or the team could play. Last game they had known for 3 days or so that they wouldn't have their all-world point guard and 1 day that they wouldn't have their backup point guard. That game looked like it. The beginning of this one did, too. But they got it together.

Geno can coach, and the team can play.

Shoutout to Evina for keeping them in the game early and Dorka for doing what I knew she could do.
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Far be it of me to disagree or have a different point of view than you or 100 other BY'ers on this. BUT!
Often in the ACC or BE games of recent history, after a rough game, like SC or GT--going into a team like UCLA or Butler or even Marquette and winning , small or big, proves little except the talent of Uconn is better on that day. All the lessons that MUST be learned still need teaching. I like the win. It was better than losing. There are issues how big how small only the coaching staff knows and can fix, if fix able. When Paige returns for weeks if not more she won't be the Paige that went down. Uconn really needs 4 others to fill up 1/2 of what Paige has done or the season won't end where most By-er thought 3 weeks ago. My different drum is still beating. No offense intended.
 
Ball n said:
If I were her father, I'd tell her if you want the Wnba and they want you, go for it. You can always coach later if that is your choice. When you graduate from Uconn W C B B you can do what ever floats your boat. Your life is your's I lived mine, I needn't live yours. I've made that speech multiple times to my own (except the Uconn/Wnba parts)
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been a dad too long
 
Vowelguy said:
Before today, UConn was ranked 113/348 in D1 and 21/67 in the P5(+1) in FT shooting.
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The thing is by Uconn standards, any statistic where Uconn is only in the top third or so nationally would be considered a team weakness. With the healthy players, we do not have as much three point or foul shooting as most Uconn teams. We were an easy team to deliberately foul.

In that scenario you don't want the ball in Liv, Dorka or Aaliyah's hands, and Evina and Christyn are only mediocre options. Part of me wanted to get the ball to Caroline despite her lack of experience in clutch situations. I am pretty sure when her uconn career is over her FT percentage will be way better than Evina's or Christyn's, as will of course Paige's and Azzi.
 
ucbart said:
Ok. Now that the dust has settled. That 3rd quarter could be the turning point of the season.

If and when Paige comes back-these minutes for all these players are going to pay dividends that are immeasurable
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Please correct me if I am wrong, but I thought I heard one of today’s announcers go into
the nature of Paige’s injury. She surmised that it would take much longer than 6 to 8 weeks to fully recover.
 
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Heytherego said:
I have to say I’m really proud of this team. From the second quarter on they looked completely different, almost reinvigorated. I loved to see all the fight they showed even through adversity. Even Geno was showing some fight for his players. Fourth quarter got scary, but they pulled it off. Something they need to be better at going forward.

Dorka and Caroline really contributed to the win. Caroline took a lot and missed a lot, but the shots she hit were timely. She hit a big three going into half and then another big three in the fourth. I thought they both played really smart and made some key plays. Dorka had a big night and congrats to her; first UCONN double double and reached 1000 career points. Liv had another nice game, I really like the way she’s been playing this season. CW I thought was big in the fourth too, she just needs to put a whole game together. Evina carried this team early and did it all, gotta hit those free throws though.

Let’s hope we can keep this momentum going. It was a really good sign today to get a win with they players we had. Some of these wins may not be pretty, but if they played the way they did in the second quarter on I’ll be happy, even with a loss. I think Georgia Tech was so disappointing because it looked like no one wanted to be there or was even trying, I thought everyone was FIGHTING for that win today. With more practice they will continue to be more cohesive. Let’s close out the year strong and hope to see some injured players back soon.
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Yes.
TOTALLY different personality with this team today vs last.
And it wasn’t the opponent.
Team said ‘ not on our watch’.
Coach ‘em up Geno.
One game at a time.
 
This was a confidence builder for a number of players and we certainly needed that. We held UCLA to 32.9% shooting folks. That is the game right there. Dorka is proving what most of us knew at the start of the year that SHE IS THE BEST REBOUNDER ON THIS TEAM. She blocks out well and works hard and has some size. She is still anxious and having some needless turnovers but it's from wanting to do well so badly. Starting Dorka and giving her more playing time gets her up to speed faster and frankly, it was overdue.

Caroline has the goods but she is going to take some time to develop. She didn't get any rolls today and she is one of the few on this team that is able to get to the basket. The zone doesn't help anyone on our team but she deals with it better than most. She can get her shot off against good competition. Defensively she doesn't hurt us folks. Look at the numbers with this lineup. Are people beating her off the dribble? No. Is she applying good defensive pressure? Yes. Chou was the player she was guarding most often and she was 1 for 11. Caroline had 2 blocks and she wasn't the only player who missed some shots.

Ono was pretty solid again. Overall though, from a player development standpoint, we made progress today.
 
I say we are 50/50 against Louisville though. I wouldn't have said that until seeing the approach Geno is taking currently. Dorka and Caroline need to play. Long term, even if they don't end up starting, we are going to need them to be sharp. Now is a great time to give them the opportunity to contribute. We should have had more than a 6 rebound advantage against this team though, especially when they shot only 32.9%. We should be a dominant rebounding team. If we continue the strong defense and continue to play Dorka for the rebounding edge all we have to do is hit 35% of our 3 shots to beat even a top 10 team.
 
oldude said:
I do believe that late in the game, the refs finally called a foul on UCLA for riding Dorka to the floor after she secured a loose ball.;)
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ONO, Dorka and Aaliya all made multiple trips to the floor today...............Edward's attempt at taking a charge was particularly nasty.........I wasn't sure she was getting up...............I know I wouldn't have........but she did..........they will be feeling it tomorrow big time......
 
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