In Reply to: We're No. 3! (WBB) posted by TheHappyBurgermeister on January 13, 2026 at 10:25:08
Close has commented that CLW taking over primary point guard responsibilities is freeing Kiki up to dominate from off the ball but as you were pointing out, it's a huge credit to Kiki and Coach Close's program that she still is looking to set up her teammates as much as she is drive and score the ball (because her athleticism and body control is so superior, he can flex and maneuver around to score on almost any opponent she might encounter and yet she is focused on getting the team their best opportunity to score every time down court regardless of which player happens to get that look.
Close also keeps driving the point home that four of the last five NCs iirc this correctly led the nation in defense. We're #1 or 2 in offense in the nation but stand at #5 in defense. Some of that is Cori substituting to give the younger players more time and a chance to grow more quickly - which is good sportsmanship but will also pay off down the road. Also our team defense is far far better since that awful first half against Texas and as the season goes on, our standing on defense will improve more and more.
What a great team and season!