Zaay's rehab this season may force other players to work harder to develop consistent shooting. If they can just knock down the wide-open looks given when the opponent sags off of them, that will give our volume shooters room to operate. A few reserves still forcs interior shots when covered, but most are being pretty smart. Still, got to make the defense respect you and can't pass up every open shot.
Thought Rennia did a great job of letting the game come to her. Smooth as silk and just as comfortable. Team was unselfish and hunted good shots (excluding the forced transition passes) and had some great series with crisp passing that forced ND to work hard.
As others have said, many of those turnovers were the result of being aggressive, including the charges and trying to pound the ball inside to Tamari. Some...but not many...lazy passes or lack of effort. Horston had one errant pass to Brown, who appeared to be cutting baseline but wasn't looking for the pass. They'll get better communication with more time together. Of course, it helped that Jordan immediately stole back the outlet pass. That's the type of effort that offsets aggressive turnover.
Yes, we need to play better, absolutely. And shoot better. And hit our free throws. But the spirit, energy, intensity, and willingness to learn are visible. This team wants to win, hates to lose, and support each other. That's going to help them improve each day. And they look like they're having a blast doing it!
Very encouraged so far. Bumps in the road lie ahead, but this team looks to be a resilient bunch.
Stainless steel Lady Vols.