Why Geno sees Ashlynn as UConn WBB difference-maker off the bench

[BRS24]

Gift article

He said that in the history of the program, most of his better teams have had a game-changing player coming off the bench, and he believes he has that in Big East Sixth Player of the Year Ashlynn Shade.

Although her point production had dropped slightly from 11.0 last season to 8.3 this season, nearly every other part of her game has improved despite playing almost nine minutes less per game to accommodate the Huskies’ deeper roster.

“Our best teams ever had a player like Ash coming off the bench, going back to Shea Ralph,” Auriemma said. “Before a couple kids got hurt, Stewie was coming off the bench. Maya Moore was coming off the bench. Diana Taurasi was coming off the bench. Svetlana Abrosimova coming off the bench. Asjha Jones. You’re kidding me, right? We are talking about legendary players.

 

[Forego]

Like the tee shirt advertisement that appeared in the Boneyard the other day, “dibs on the redhead.”

 

[RockyMTblue2]

I'm not rushing things, but I really want to see Ash as a Junior.

 

[ERWUC65]

I'm not rushing things, but I really want to see Ash as a Junior.

Geno made the point that for Ash to be the complete player she needs to work on her drives to the basket, probably a by-product of gaining more confidence with more responsibility.

 

[Bigboote]

I’m glad he mentions KK, too. “They go in and the game changes. . . That’s what coaches hope for.”

 

[Next 12]

I have been high on ASHLYNN since she came to Uconn. Her freshman year was stellar and her all around play were way beyond being a freshman. 419 points, 64 3's and 164 rebounds ( all third on the team )were not expected,but circumstances caused it. This year ,I felt ASHLYNN would have done better If she started every game like last year.The difference being GENOs confidence in her, being the best option for the team. The little subtleties that make a difference.I believe ASHLYNN WILL make a BIG difference in the NC and Uconn will get NO12. GO ASHLYNN!!!! GOFRESHMEN!!!!! GO SOPHOMORES!!!! O HUSKIES!!!!!

 

[Skeets]

When Geno subs in Ash and KK, the agents of chaos, it smacks the other team upside the head.

 

[BRS24]

Geno made the point that for Ash to be the complete player she needs to work on her drives to the basket, probably a by-product of gaining more confidence with more responsibility.

This is part of Geno's expectations of progression. He also used to say this about Maya, Stewie, and others. After a season or two as a jump shooter, the next step is driving to the hoop. Right now, Ash has a mini drive to a mid range jumper, which reminds me of Sue Bird.

 

[Bone Dog]

For Ash to drive effectively she has to read-react well and recognize mismatches and defensive mistakes. Unlike KK, she doesn’t have the twitchy-quick first step that would allow her to force the issue and get to the rim. Experience is already showing her progress. We’ve also seen serial examples this season where she’s forced the issue on transition layups through contact. Ash is well on her way to where Geno wants her to be next season.

 

[Linart]

As for disrupters, don't forget Ashley. Those three coming off the bench--man, we are blessed!

 

[JellyBean]

I said it in the first half of the season, I think Ash (and KK) is going to be that X factor for the team. Her defense, scoring, and stamina are going to be a huge bonus during the tournament.

 

[my2cents]

Heck, they were starters and big contributors on last years final four team, so we know they can play. This year, coming off the bench , they both have more energy and more willing to play tough because fouling won't be an issue.

 

[PAHuskeyFan]

I believe in Ashlyn... last year she seemed to always make the shot (often a 3 pointer) when UCONN needed it. I started calling her "Ash is Cash"... as in... "Money"!!!! She and KK are a pair of Energizer Bunnies when they get in the game...together or separately... they drive the opponent's defense crazy, and always have a hand in their face or the passing lanes. UCONN's future is bright!

 

[Bone Dog]

I said it in the first half of the season, I think Ash (and KK) is going to be that X factor for the team. Her defense, scoring, and stamina are going to be a huge bonus during the tournament.

Stamina is often overlooked as a factor, especially at tournament time. Ash is outstanding in this department. She simply does not slow down.

 

[FormerCTrez]

When Geno subs in Ash and KK, the agents of chaos, it smacks the other team upside the head.

I like it!