Monarchs Open Practice today

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Den-Den

Bench
#1
#1
It was great to see so many fans out to watch practice today! I have to say, that I was impressed by the group that Whiz & Jenny have put together. While there were still six returning players overseas--Bekka, Nicole, DeMya, Kara, Harper & Fro--the group that was there worked HARD for 2 1/2 hours. I would not want to be the coaching staff, and have to narrow 18 down to 13.

There are several players who fit nicely with this team. Hands down, the best new piece that was there today was Aqua Franklin. She is a perfect fit for this team. Great defense, incredible ball and player awareness-GREAT court vision--and the girl has a whole 'nother gear bringing the ball up court.

I was also impressed with Amy Sanders. I had thought she would just be a training camp player, but I am not so sure having seen her play today. I think she really might have a chance to make this team.

Adrian Williams-Strong has definitely upped her game as well--she has bulked up in her shoulders and upper body, and banged hard today with the male practice players. Good ball handling as well.

Izabela Piekarska brings some nice skills to the team--really nice passing for a post, and nice movement around the basket. She is slower-footed than most of the others in camp, and seemed a little confused as to where she should be at times in the white-line defense, but still is in the running a think.

Tangie is blossoming into the player that many knew she would. Great moves around the basket, and much better ball-handling. I cannot wait to see her & Bekka together.

Glad I am not Whiz--no easy waivers in this bunch. Still trying to figure out who my 13 would be...
 
6th

6th

Homer Fan Since 1985
#2
#2
I thought I wouldn't make it since I was doing the March for Babies to raise money for the March of Dimes this morning. I'm really glad we finished the walk early enough for me to make it to ARCO.

I'm with you on several points, Den-Den. I'm looking at Franklin as a very competent back up for Ticha. I liked the way she pushed the ball up the court and I particularly liked her defense (thank you Texas A&M). She will fit this team very well.

I liked much of what I saw from Piekarska. I like her size in the post. She showed a couple of good moves, and I like her passing & shooting ability. She did seem confused at times. We'll see whether she picks it up or not. The question I have is whether we will keep 2 bigs. From what I'm hearing about the U.S. Team, Harper will be a good fit here.

I really really liked Adrian. It was a pleasant surprise to see her improvement on defense. She was quicker at reacting than I remember. I really love her left hand to the basket.

I'll be the first to admit that I was not thrilled with Atkinson last year. I definitely saw some improvement and I'm expecting her to change my mind about her this year. That will be welcome.

Kim Smith played hard today. It appears that she knows she will have to fight for a job. Her defensive effort was certainly there. She still has a beautiful shot.

Ticha was Ticha. She is the undisputed leader on the team. I liked her instructions to her teammates on the court. She took the ball to the rack and I loved it.

There's a lot of talent on this team. They have a difficult task after most teams in the West improved. They may just be up to the challenge.
 
NothinButHoops

NothinButHoops

Starter
#3
#3
Sounds very encouraging...thanks for the reports everyone.
I had to work so it's nice to get the scoop from all my fellow fans.
Makes me that more excited to get the big show going!
Nice see you all LUV13:)

GO MONARCHS...
SILENCE THE CRITICS!
 
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