[jonnyss]

Preview:

Should we win tonight, we will play the winner of the Wake Forest vs. Oklahoma State game, which is on ESPN right now.

The Wake Forest/Oklahoma game ended the first half 42-29 Oklahoma.

My reaction is that both teams looked competent but not particularly athletic--with one exception.

Oklahoma State is led by 6'4" Natasha Mack, reportedly a top 5 WNBA pick this year.  She has a very long reach beyond her height--reminds me of Brink in build, or perhaps a taller Mya Hollingshed.  She gets the ball down low and has spin moves and accuracy once she does.  She also has a decent mid range jumper.  On some possessions Wake Forest shut her down by doubling and fronting her.  I did not think she seemed unusually effective on defense, but that is her reputation and all those blocks must have something to do with it.  Admittedly quite talented on offense.

Mack averages 19 points and 12 rebound per game, and is the national leader with 107 blocks on the year.

Oklahoma State also Ja'Mee Asberry, a 5'5" redshirt junior who is hitting 42% of her threes, so OSU has some balance.  OSU likes the inside/out game, so keeping Asberry covered on the perimeter (Anna Wilson assignment sounds perfect) while doubling up Mack sounds like the formula for defensive success.

thanks!

[jonnyss]

Preview:

Should we win tonight, we will play the winner of the Wake Forest vs. Oklahoma State game, which is on ESPN right now.

The Wake Forest/Oklahoma game ended the first half 42-29 Oklahoma.

My reaction is that both teams looked competent but not particularly athletic--with one exception.

Oklahoma State is led by 6'4" Natasha Mack, reportedly a top 5 WNBA pick this year.  She has a very long reach beyond her height--reminds me of Brink in build, or perhaps a taller Mya Hollingshed.  She gets the ball down low and has spin moves and accuracy once she does.  She also has a decent mid range jumper.  On some possessions Wake Forest shut her down by doubling and fronting her.  I did not think she seemed unusually effective on defense, but that is her reputation and all those blocks must have something to do with it.  Admittedly quite talented on offense.

Mack averages 19 points and 12 rebound per game, and is the national leader with 107 blocks on the year.

Oklahoma State also Ja'Mee Asberry, a 5'5" redshirt junior who is hitting 42% of her threes, so OSU has some balance.  OSU likes the inside/out game, so keeping Asberry covered on the perimeter (Anna Wilson assignment sounds perfect) while doubling up Mack sounds like the formula for defensive success.

thanks!