Dec. 3, 2000
Head Coach Tara VanDerveer Opening Statement:
Again, I thought it was a good team effort. People areraising the bar for each other. Nicole (Powell) and Lauren (St. Clair) started us out today, then Carolyn (Moos) came off the bench and did a great job. This has been a real good stretch. Now, we'll work hard for two weeks in preparation for Tennessee, Purdue and Oklahoma.
(On the two weeks between games): I like having preparation time, but, you can only practice so much. I think our team will benefit and will use the time productively.
(On the pressing defense employed by Massachusetts): I was disappointed - I thought we would handle the press better. But, by the time they started pressing, we didn't always have our best press-breakinglineup. I'm glad UMass exploited that, because now we recognize that we have to do better. As coaches, we will spend more time on that aspect.
(On points of emphasis when facing Tennessee): One, we have to handle their defensive pressure. They want to take you out of your offensive flow, in football terms, they really have a "blitzing" defense. Theyare aggressive and like to take away the passing lanes. Also, we have to limit their transition baskets and keep them off the offensive boards.
(On the style of this year's team following the loss of Jamie Carey and two freshman in the backcourt): Ithas been a big adjustment. Susan King was forced immediately into the starting point guard role. Also, Nicole Powell became the second rather than the third point guard. Initially, it was a big adjustment, butwe had to move on, and we have. Our guard play is good, and the team is getting used to Susan and Nicole. Also, I like playing a big "2" guard, which Nicole gives us.
(On play of Carolyn Moos and Cori Enghusen): I have been very pleased with Carolyn. She's been practicing great and showing great concentration. She's taking balanced shots, blocking shots, running the floor welland hitting threes. Cori has been good on the block, finishing. I like the Carolyn/Cori combination a lot.