She's definitely a work in progress. I knew that's how it would go (learned my lesson and have tempered my expectations of transfers), which is why I was cautiously optimistic about declaring this team the greatest ever in the history of UConn WCBB. It simply isn't and may never rival those early 2000s or big three teams.
The thing about Z is that while she’s still improving in her defensive skills, her offensive skills are otherworldly. She has to be defended and if she’s smart (hey, she went to Duke, for crying out loud) she’ll get her defenders in foul trouble. Whoever UConn plays has to worry about Z, a recently energized Napheesa, and Gabby as well as fend off Meg for rebounds. In other words, Z may have issues on defense but so will the other guys.
Couldn't agree more, I was only commenting on her defense against our upcoming games against "big guys", such as Wilson, whom I believe will be Gabby's guy anyways, and possibly down the road...MSST, Baylor...
Hope you are right. This year, have seen UConn get hammered under boards by big teams, have seen small, quick guards get into lane at will. Never have seen one team have both going at same time so while I feel UConn is the favorite, still causes concern particularly if Z or other rebounder gets in foul trouble.
I think teams that we will be playing will see during their scouting that if you can get away with mugging our inside players and Lou, then your chances for the W are increased. So, it could depend on the the type of officials that are calling the game. For example, one of the refs from this weekend's debacle at SC was calling a game last night. The type of "physical" plays that were let go at Columbia, she was calling last night. These were mainly when the inside players were battling for position.
The best way to stop great post play is with guards who can disrupt the play. Think back to the Men's NC orchestrated by Shabazz and Boat. Kia and Crystal can provide that type of defense. We still need a third guard and until we get one, we will be suspect. Kia is smart enough to avoid fouls and Crystal has done a good job staying on the court, but if a scenario develops where we lose one for an extended period of time, i.e., a half or more, then we are going to have difficulty against Baylor, Miss St, and A'ja and the seven dwarfs.
Megan can handle the ball if need be.
Or possibly Lou in a pinch. However, not sure if she could handle full court pressure.
I would prefer that Z drive to the basket. Odds are better that she will score and/or get fouled. Make 3s the ol fashioned way.
