Updates from around the B1G

[HB]

Iowa:

 

Letdown possibility concerns Bluder

 

Lisa Bluder has issued a Letdown Watch, effective Thursday for suburban Chicago.

Conditions are favorable for danger.

 

“Absolutely,” she said Tuesday, a day after Iowa snapped its women’s basketball hex against Nebraska. “I’m very concerned about a letdown.

 

“We only have one day to practice, and we’re going into an environment in which there’s not much energy. We’ll have to bring it ourselves.”

 

 

Go Wildcats!!

 

Noah, I expect you to single-handedly prove Bluder wrong about an "environment in which there's not much energy".    

[Noah121]

 

Iowa:

 

Letdown possibility concerns Bluder

 

Lisa Bluder has issued a Letdown Watch, effective Thursday for suburban Chicago.

Conditions are favorable for danger.

 

“Absolutely,” she said Tuesday, a day after Iowa snapped its women’s basketball hex against Nebraska. “I’m very concerned about a letdown.

 

“We only have one day to practice, and we’re going into an environment in which there’s not much energy. We’ll have to bring it ourselves.”

 

 

Go Wildcats!!

 

Noah, I expect you to single-handedly prove Bluder wrong about an "environment in which there's not much energy".    

 

 

I'll make her eat her words.  Too bad I can only Exalt the last two posts once each

 

But, my cheering will not involve directly getting into Bluder's face.  The players' faces, though, at the free throw line...

[Row6Seat10]

Michigan State:

 

The lingering symptoms of a concussion have sidelined Jasmine Hines for nearly the last two months.

 

And at this point, Michigan State women's basketball coach Suzy Merchant doesn't think it's worth trying to get the senior center back for possibly the final week of the regular season.

 

"I think they're going to re-evaluate her in three more weeks, which gives you like the last week of the season, but I wouldn't waste a kids' opportunity to potentially come back because we're going to redshirt her," Merchant said.

 

http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/college/msu/2015/01/29/michigan-state-womens-basketball-shutting-jasmine-hines-rest-season/22511531/

[Row6Seat10]

Drake:

 

Don't look now but there's an interesting story somewhat Nebraska related developing about miles 190 to the east of Pinnacle Bank Arena.

 

The Drake Bulldogs entered the MO Valley conference play with a 5-6 record after non conference play. Needless to say after yesterday's victory over first place Wichita St they are now sitting at the top of the Missouri Valley with a 9-0 record they've turned their season around. Their last loss was to Iowa (100-98) in Dec. 

 

They're becoming a dangerous team as they start two freshmen and two sophomores.

 

The Nebraska connection comes through one of three seniors Carly Grenfell who is the first off the bench from York and their Director of Basketball Operations Dominique Kelly!

 

http://www.godrakebulldogs.com/SportSelect.dbml?&DB_OEM_ID=15700&SPID=8128&SPSID=71372

[whoopdeedoo]

i was confronted lately with the question, "do you think Maryland will become the UConn of the B1G?"

 

found that interesting and had to think about that for a bit. i could definitely see how and why that question was posed. Mincy, according to the stats, has the most minutes (631) and is a RSr. Howard, who has accumulated 453 minutes, is a Jr. The 3 names you seem to hear the most about and are all starters, Jones, Walker-Kimbrough, and Brown are sophs. Most likely a dominating trio for the next 2 yrs. They also have 3 other freshman that have accumulated over 200 minutes of playing time so far. Pfirman is a jr who has almost reached the 300 mark this year. 

 

Then, for 2015, you add the #15 (Brianna Fraser 6-3) and #27 Kiah Gillespie (6-1). So far for 2016, Maryland has commits from #18 Stephanie Jones (6-2), #33 Jenna Staiti (6-5), and #35 Blair Watson (6-0).

 

While i can see Maryland dominating for at least the next couple years, who knows how things will progress. I think as long as Frese stays there (and, i think the only thing that might woo her away is if UConn would be searching for a coach---i would have to believe she would be high on their list). 

 

No doubt Frese is in a great region for recruiting---i don't know if they will dominate the B1G like UConn has dominated women's bb, but, i would be willing to bet that as long as Frese is there, they will be a perennial top 3 finisher in the conference.

[Row6Seat10]

Ohio State:

 

Ohio State women's basketball forward Kalpana Beach will undergo arthroscopic surgery on her right knee on Wednesday, coach Kevin McGuff announced today.

Beach has missed 14 of the past 15 games with lingering soreness in the knee. She missed the previous two seasons after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in the same knee and undergoing surgery that included extensive rehab.

The redshirt sophomore was attempting a comeback this season and played in the first six games. She left a Nov. 28 game against Wichita State with soreness in the knee. Beach didn't play again until Jan. 18 when she logged seven minutes in a win over Penn State.

Beach started 30 games for the Buckeyes as a freshman in the 2011-12 season. Her status for the remainder of the season has yet to be determined. Beach was averaging 4.7 points and 5.8 rebounds this season.

 

http://buckeyextra.dispatch.com/content/stories/2015/02/02/0202-kalpana-beach-injury.html

[KarlHessEatMy....]

http://espn.go.com/espnw/news-commentary/article/12283020/jessica-shepard-mend-fluke-ended-senior-season

 

Good article on ESPN about Shepard

[Row6Seat10]

San Jose St:

 

Sure could have used Becca yesterday. She would have been a senior this year.

 

The Bulldogs clawed back in the second half, but every time they built momentum it was erased by San Jose State sharpshooter Rebecca Woodberry.

Three times the score was tied in the second half, and each time Woodberry put the Spartans back on top from long range.

The senior transfer from Nebraska went 5 of 10 on 3-pointers and 7 of 13 from the field overall while scoring a game-high 19 points.

 

http://www.fresnobee.com/2015/02/04/4364861_fresno-state-womens-basketball.html?rh=1

 

[redsteve]

So what's the story on her leaving NU ?

[huskerchode]

Was she the one that arrived on campus as a freshman and was out of shape, and then there were some issues with practice effort? I don't know that there was ever an official explanation, same with Katya Leick.

[Bugeaters1]

Was she the one that arrived on campus as a freshman and was out of shape, and then there were some issues with practice effort? I don't know that there was ever an official explanation, same with Katya Leick.

There is more to the story, She broke some team rules.

[redsteve]

Do we have to keep recruiting kids?   There's got to be some 30 yr olds out there that have become adults.

[Row6Seat10]

Q&A with Maryland Women's Basketball Coach Brenda Frese:

 

PRESSBOX: How have you and your team enjoyed your first season as members of the Big Ten?

 

BRENDA FRESE: Our first season as members of the Big Ten has been fantastic. We have really been impressed in many ways. The first thing that comes to mind are the fan bases at various schools in the conference. They are legit, and we are playing in front of real road crowds, which didn't happen very often in the past.

 

 

PB: What new Big Ten venue has been the most exciting place for you and the team to play?

 

BF: Right now, I'd say the two Big Ten venues that have been the most exciting for us have been Nebraska and Minnesota. Both places get incredible support from their fans. At Nebraska, they're about the nicest people you could meet. We had countless fans welcome us to Nebraska, and then, even after we won, they were very complimentary of our team. Nebraska also has a brand new state-of-the-art arena, which is really well done.

 

When we played at Minnesota, we had the added dimension of that being the job I left to come to Maryland. It's been over a decade, but it was still a big deal, even though I only worked there for about nine months. Plus, what Nebraska and Minnesota have in common is that they were both quality opponents, so the games were challenging.

 

http://www.pressboxonline.com/2015/02/13/q-a-maryland-womens-basketball-coach-brenda-frese

[Cazzie22]

If Theriot cannot play the rest of the year the Huskers may not make the NCAA's.  The remaining schedule is not good. You want to avoid Maryland's bracket if at all possible.  Good experience will be gained by Romeo, Cincore and Smith for the future.  

[Silverbacked1]

I can't see us not getting in even if we do slump her without Rachel.

What is our RPI right now. Has to be pretty good have a couple of good wins and even good loses as of right now.

Our seed my really stink and we will have to travel and we might not win more than one game. But I think we are in.

[Noah121]

As of tonight, our RPI is 33 and our SOS is 39.  The loss to Alabama is still a Bad Loss (their RPI is 158), but we have 7 Quality Wins and one High Quality Win.

 

I would be concerned about us getting in if the Huskers go 0-5 through the end of the Big Ten Tournament, but I can't see them losing to Indiana, nor do I see a loss on Senior Day.

[whoopdeedoo]

Q&A with Maryland Women's Basketball Coach Brenda Frese:

 

PRESSBOX: How have you and your team enjoyed your first season as members of the Big Ten?

 

BRENDA FRESE: Our first season as members of the Big Ten has been fantastic. We have really been impressed in many ways. The first thing that comes to mind are the fan bases at various schools in the conference. They are legit, and we are playing in front of real road crowds, which didn't happen very often in the past.

 

 

PB: What new Big Ten venue has been the most exciting place for you and the team to play?

 

BF: Right now, I'd say the two Big Ten venues that have been the most exciting for us have been Nebraska and Minnesota. Both places get incredible support from their fans. At Nebraska, they're about the nicest people you could meet. We had countless fans welcome us to Nebraska, and then, even after we won, they were very complimentary of our team. Nebraska also has a brand new state-of-the-art arena, which is really well done.

 

When we played at Minnesota, we had the added dimension of that being the job I left to come to Maryland. It's been over a decade, but it was still a big deal, even though I only worked there for about nine months. Plus, what Nebraska and Minnesota have in common is that they were both quality opponents, so the games were challenging.

 

http://www.pressboxonline.com/2015/02/13/q-a-maryland-womens-basketball-coach-brenda-frese

 

 

 

remember when she left minnesota. fans of the gophers were none to pleased she left after being there for only 9 months. her parting comment didn't do her any favors either. i don't remember her exact quote that was in the paper, but, she stated she wanted to be somewhere where you can win championships. inferring she wouldn't be able to do that in minnesota. while it may be true, probably not a wise comment to make.

[whoopdeedoo]

IF rachel is done, taking away that stability she has brought to that position will be tough to manage throughout the final stretch. nothing shocking in that statement. not to take anything away from romeo, smith, and/or cincore. the experience is just not there. gonna need ALL to step it up. hate to say it, but, i think any of these games could go either way now.

[huskerchode]

Wow, Iowa had no answer for Zahui B. tonight. She had 39 points and 29 boards for a Big 10 rebounding record. And she surpassed 1000 career points as a sophomore. If she plays like that in Lincoln, we will be in trouble.

[HB]

Iowa losing to the Gophers tonight really hurts Nebraska's chance to finish in the top 4 and get a double bye in the tournament. It was next to impossible to cheer for Iowa, but I had to under the circumstances. Although I feel a little dirty.

Serious talent on the Gophers. Too bad for the coach that recruited it all, since she got whacked and won't get to experience the success from her efforts.

Defense was optional tonight. Iowa has Elite 8 offensive talent. Lots of players who can make plays. But the lack of defense may well bite them in the NCAA tournament. There will be a night in a cavernous arena where the shots aren't falling, and they get knocked out of the tourney early. The Hawks just don't seem to buy into playing D. Either that, or they are just very limited.

Zahui B is just ridiculous. 39 and 29. Not a typo. 39 and 29. With Banham back next year, and everyone else except Shae Kelly, Minnestota should be crazy good next year.

[Row6Seat10]

Nebraska/Kearney:

 

Not B1G related but Nebraska none the less. The Univ Nebraska/Kearney Lopers fired their head women's basketball coach Kevin Chaney this afternoon and are now in the process of searching for a new one.

 

"Kevin and I have come to the conclusion that it is in our mutual best interest to move in different directions. We appreciate Kevin's contributions to our Athletic Department over the past five years," said Plinske. "I'm thankful for Kevin's passion, effort and care for the women's basketball program. His commitment and hard work helped us transition to the highly competitive MIAA. He is a wonderful person and served as a great representative of our university," said Plinske.

 

http://www.lopers.com/news/2015/3/5/WBB_0305152347.aspx

[Row6Seat10]

South Dakota:

 

Here's a fantastic article written by the Sioux Falls Argus/Leader on South Dakota Head Coach Amy (Gusso) Williams. The ex-Husker recounts her life from when she was a small kid to now as the head women's basketball coach at USD.

 

This article helps to explain why she is one of my all time favorite Huskers! She may not have been the most talented player on the court but her heart and desire she exuded while here when she played and her career since, has made a lasting impression on me. The way she has carried herself since she donned Husker gear in the "Bob" would make any Husker fan proud.

 

USD's Williams living "a dream come true"

 

When Amy called her parents her sophomore year and said she wanted to become a walk-on for Nebraska women's basketball, the reaction was mixed. Her mother was puzzled and her father was intrigued.

"It didn't fit into her mom's idea of what she should do as far as being a student," explains Tim. "But I told her, 'You don't want to be 30 years old and look back and wish that you had tried.' "

 

 

Facing the completion of her double major in biology and math and preparing for medical school admission tests, Williams saw her life at a crossroads and had doubts about her path.

 

"I was doing an internship at St. Elizabeth in Lincoln, and it got to the point where I realized I didn't want to go to the hospital every day for the rest of my life," she says.

 

She had dinner with one of her former coaches and learned about a graduate assistant job at Nebraska-Kearney, and things fell into place quickly. That led to another phone call home.

 

"My mom almost fell out of her chair, but my dad understood," Amy says. "He knows that coaching is in my blood and it was something I needed to do, and I never really looked back."

 

 

[Row6Seat10]

KU:

 

The inevitable has finally happened at KU. Bonnie Hendrickson was relieved of her duties of head coach this morning.

 

"Bonnie has been an outstanding representative of the University of Kansas and Kansas Athletics," Zenger said.  "It came down to the fact that we expect this program to rank among the best in the Big 12 Conference, and we have not accomplished that goal."

 

http://www.kuathletics.com/news/2015/3/9/WBB_0309152404.aspx?path=wbball#.VP31Z_dWu9Y.twitter

[Bugeaters1]

KU:

 

The inevitable has finally happened at KU. Bonnie Hendrickson was relieved of her duties of head coach this morning.

 

"Bonnie has been an outstanding representative of the University of Kansas and Kansas Athletics," Zenger said.  "It came down to the fact that we expect this program to rank among the best in the Big 12 Conference, and we have not accomplished that goal."

 

http://www.kuathletics.com/news/2015/3/9/WBB_0309152404.aspx?path=wbball#.VP31Z_dWu9Y.twitter

I thought this would have happened while Nebr. was was still in the league.

[HB]

 

KU:

 

The inevitable has finally happened at KU. Bonnie Hendrickson was relieved of her duties of head coach this morning.

 

"Bonnie has been an outstanding representative of the University of Kansas and Kansas Athletics," Zenger said.  "It came down to the fact that we expect this program to rank among the best in the Big 12 Conference, and we have not accomplished that goal."

 

http://www.kuathletics.com/news/2015/3/9/WBB_0309152404.aspx?path=wbball#.VP31Z_dWu9Y.twitter

I thought this would have happened while Nebr. was was still in the league.

 

 

She was  close on a couple of occasions to getting it done.  Only 2 years from beating the Huskers in the first round of the tourney.  Would suck to get to the round of 32 and get whacked. Too many down years.   It's a tough business out there.  I would think the opportunity at Kansas is good, and they will have interest from some top coaches.