In Reply to: this team ... posted by barrya on November 18, 2024 at 10:19:27
The evolution of Betts that's encouraging and may keep her on the floor even when facing difficult matchups is her passing out of the post early in the season.
She's hit the high post, same side wing, opposite wing - leading to hockey assist layups, layups, and open 3s.
She tried to force a few through double/triple teams early Sunday, then adjusted quite nicely before going back to dominating in the paint once things loosened up. Granted, Arkansa was undergunned from the jump, but it was a good opportunity for her to see how easily things can operate when the balls goes inside - outside - inside.
Barker will help tremendously with big, athletic teams if she can channel her aggressiveness and avoid unecessary fouls.
Jaquez has a glue person backup now in Dudley who should only get better and better.
Dugalic looks like she's having a blast, has size, and is playing very hard.
Gardiner - what a luxury to have a reliable deep ball threat, making Betts even more dangerous.
Aarnisalo has been a revelation and keeps getting better - more assists, less TOs.
Jones needs to start hitting shots in order to be a regular contributor. She does play hard on defense and can be a perimeter pest, but the plus there is likely a wash when considering her size disadvantage. I love her in spurts, particularly when hot, but the clunky mask didn't do her any favors.
Kiki just needs to get back, comfortable, and be Kiki. Playing her and Aarnisalo together is interesting as both have offense in spurts and can clearly handle and pass the ball.