I was thinking about how this Husky team will be different from the team Stanford encountered last December, and was surprised by how much more formidable they seem.
Yes, Faris is gone, but her spirit seems to remain as an inspiration and an aspiration: defensive persistence, grit, determination.
And yes, Doty is gone, but the team collectively is more mature and self-possessed.
Dolson is a more agile defender, and has broader offensive range.
Stewart is notably more confident and more effective in every way.
KML is a more committed and skilled defender, and a more versatile offensive player with her inside game.
Hartley is healthy and more confidently herself.
MoJeff is a more dynamic point than the team had last year.
Tuck is healthy, and an impressive presence that was absent last year.
Banks will need some time (maybe less than expected) to hit her stride, but Stokes and Chong have the potential to have impact off the bench.
Am I imagining all this?
How has Stanford improved?