Gotnext Women's Basketball Boards

M6Zara · Joined: 31 Jul 2004 Posts: 51 Location: Maryland

That was a close one. I only got to see the first quarter before having to leave the house in a hurry, but I did tape it. Despite a sloppy start, the US managed to limit their turnovers to 14.

I was really mad at that foul by Baranova on Swoopes. I thought Lisa would get in her face, but that didn't happen :D They said Dee did bump her and say something, but we never really saw that in the game.

It was a real test, and hopefully it helped in preparing them for tomorrow's game against Australia.

Key (momentum stopping) baskets:
- Dee's baseline fadeaway after Russia's 7-0 run late in the third.
- Swoopes in the 4th quarter after another 7-0 run

What are your thought on Sue, Swin, and Ruth not playing? It must have been hard, but they seemed to be enjoying the game and were really showing a lot of support. Overall, it was a fun game to watch, but it was a little too close for me. I predict that tomorrow will be a close one. I say USA wins by 10, although a blowout would make me less nervous.

DTFAN · Joined: 03 Jun 2004 Posts: 104 Location: Newington CT

WAY too close for my comfort. I think my heart rate has finally gotten back into a normal rythym.....7 hours later!! Hopefully tomorrows game will be a little less intense? Yeah right.....LJ is lethal on her 3's ,she played really well todayagainst Brazil....saw gail and c. vivian at that game scouting....hopefully they saw what they needed to see and brought back some helpful info....until tomorrow..............

GO USA!!!!!

1carol · Joined: 17 Jul 2003 Posts: 1043 Location: Phoenix AZ

I think it depends on how the game goes & what Van thinks is the best line up against the team we're playing at any given moment. He's had enough time to know his players abilities very well. Van (and everyone he can get to help him) also thoroughly scout the opposing teams before each game. He'll have a "book" ready by game time with oposing team plays, strengths, and weaknesses.
Sue, Swin & Ruth will get their chance if he thinks they'll do the job better than whoever is on the floor at any given moment.
Grafie coaches that way. She says there are no real starters. Everything depends on the team they're playing.