[M T]

Betts still hasn't shown that much against the better teams.  We have plenty of post depth but she is a big part of the future there, and thus far, I'm not seeing what I thought I would from her.  

I agree with all your points.  I will add this about Betts which most fans will probably take objection.    I don't feel Betts is ready yet for the speed of top level DI college BB.   I would give her plenty of playing time in games where there is no doubt about the outcome.

I believe next year will be Betts' year largely because she will have time to grow into her body and be better able to handle the speed of good opponents.  Junior and senior year I look forward to some domination by her in the post.

If I had to predict, I don't think Betts will ever be great.  Her feet & hands are slow.  She's got a good shot close in, but right now, she can't hang onto the ball in a crowd.

I really hope I'm wrong.  Clearly she needs at least a year.  She's someone I would think about red-shirting next year, to give her time to get used to her body and maybe control it better.

But then, I'm spoiled by Brink.

[M T]

Betts still hasn't shown that much against the better teams.  We have plenty of post depth but she is a big part of the future there, and thus far, I'm not seeing what I thought I would from her.  

I agree with all your points.  I will add this about Betts which most fans will probably take objection.    I don't feel Betts is ready yet for the speed of top level DI college BB.   I would give her plenty of playing time in games where there is no doubt about the outcome.

I believe next year will be Betts' year largely because she will have time to grow into her body and be better able to handle the speed of good opponents.  Junior and senior year I look forward to some domination by her in the post.

If I had to predict, I don't think Betts will ever be great.  Her feet & hands are slow.  She's got a good shot close in, but right now, she can't hang onto the ball in a crowd.

I really hope I'm wrong.  Clearly she needs at least a year.  She's someone I would think about red-shirting next year, to give her time to get used to her body and maybe control it better.

But then, I'm spoiled by Brink.

[TheFarm07]

Betts still hasn't shown that much against the better teams.  We have plenty of post depth but she is a big part of the future there, and thus far, I'm not seeing what I thought I would from her.  

I agree with all your points.  I will add this about Betts which most fans will probably take objection.    I don't feel Betts is ready yet for the speed of top level DI college BB.   I would give her plenty of playing time in games where there is no doubt about the outcome.

I believe next year will be Betts' year largely because she will have time to grow into her body and be better able to handle the speed of good opponents.  Junior and senior year I look forward to some domination by her in the post.

If I had to predict, I don't think Betts will ever be great.  Her feet & hands are slow.  She's got a good shot close in, but right now, she can't hang onto the ball in a crowd.

I really hope I'm wrong.  Clearly she needs at least a year.  She's someone I would think about red-shirting next year, to give her time to get used to her body and maybe control it better.

But then, I'm spoiled by Brink.

I am still holding out hope given that it's still only half a season into her collegiate career, but the early returns are not promising. As the #1 recruit of her class and given her size and height, the obvious bar would be Brittney Griner.

And although I knew that would be very unlikely, given Griner's great freshman year at Baylor and who is ahead of her in the depth chart this year, I at least expected Betts to make more of an impact in close games, but I agree that her game doesn't seem to have caught up to the D1 collegiate level yet.

Hopefully with a season under her belt to understand the progress she needs to make and a summer/offseason to work on it, she can play a more significant role next year.

[TheFarm07]

Betts still hasn't shown that much against the better teams.  We have plenty of post depth but she is a big part of the future there, and thus far, I'm not seeing what I thought I would from her.  

I agree with all your points.  I will add this about Betts which most fans will probably take objection.    I don't feel Betts is ready yet for the speed of top level DI college BB.   I would give her plenty of playing time in games where there is no doubt about the outcome.

I believe next year will be Betts' year largely because she will have time to grow into her body and be better able to handle the speed of good opponents.  Junior and senior year I look forward to some domination by her in the post.

If I had to predict, I don't think Betts will ever be great.  Her feet & hands are slow.  She's got a good shot close in, but right now, she can't hang onto the ball in a crowd.

I really hope I'm wrong.  Clearly she needs at least a year.  She's someone I would think about red-shirting next year, to give her time to get used to her body and maybe control it better.

But then, I'm spoiled by Brink.

I am still holding out hope given that it's still only half a season into her collegiate career, but the early returns are not promising. As the #1 recruit of her class and given her size and height, the obvious bar would be Brittney Griner.

And although I knew that would be very unlikely, given Griner's great freshman year at Baylor and who is ahead of her in the depth chart this year, I at least expected Betts to make more of an impact in close games, but I agree that her game doesn't seem to have caught up to the D1 collegiate level yet.

Hopefully with a season under her belt to understand the progress she needs to make and a summer/offseason to work on it, she can play a more significant role next year.

[Hoops9092]

Betts still hasn't shown that much against the better teams.  We have plenty of post depth but she is a big part of the future there, and thus far, I'm not seeing what I thought I would from her.  

I agree with all your points.  I will add this about Betts which most fans will probably take objection.    I don't feel Betts is ready yet for the speed of top level DI college BB.   I would give her plenty of playing time in games where there is no doubt about the outcome.

I believe next year will be Betts' year largely because she will have time to grow into her body and be better able to handle the speed of good opponents.  Junior and senior year I look forward to some domination by her in the post.

If I had to predict, I don't think Betts will ever be great.  Her feet & hands are slow.  She's got a good shot close in, but right now, she can't hang onto the ball in a crowd.

I really hope I'm wrong.  Clearly she needs at least a year.  She's someone I would think about red-shirting next year, to give her time to get used to her body and maybe control it better.

But then, I'm spoiled by Brink.

I am still holding out hope given that it's still only half a season into her collegiate career, but the early returns are not promising. As the #1 recruit of her class and given her size and height, the obvious bar would be Brittney Griner.

And although I knew that would be very unlikely, given Griner's great freshman year at Baylor and who is ahead of her in the depth chart this year, I at least expected Betts to make more of an impact in close games, but I agree that her game doesn't seem to have caught up to the D1 collegiate level yet.

Hopefully with a season under her belt to understand the progress she needs to make and a summer/offseason to work on it, she can play a more significant role next year.

I tend to disagree on this. I feel like anywhere else she would get 35 minutes a game as a 6'7 post player with great hands and decent finishing ability around the rim. Most will live with her lack of speed or inability to be mobile in tight in-lane settings, which is typical for young posts. But she's at Stanford, where there's a lot of talent in front of her and Tara doesn't seem to have any patience in she's not immediately effective or it must be a blow out. There's a lot of post players who are a step slow, and still have a great influence on the game. But again, she's behind Brink and Iriafen here.

[Hoops9092]

Betts still hasn't shown that much against the better teams.  We have plenty of post depth but she is a big part of the future there, and thus far, I'm not seeing what I thought I would from her.  

I agree with all your points.  I will add this about Betts which most fans will probably take objection.    I don't feel Betts is ready yet for the speed of top level DI college BB.   I would give her plenty of playing time in games where there is no doubt about the outcome.

I believe next year will be Betts' year largely because she will have time to grow into her body and be better able to handle the speed of good opponents.  Junior and senior year I look forward to some domination by her in the post.

If I had to predict, I don't think Betts will ever be great.  Her feet & hands are slow.  She's got a good shot close in, but right now, she can't hang onto the ball in a crowd.

I really hope I'm wrong.  Clearly she needs at least a year.  She's someone I would think about red-shirting next year, to give her time to get used to her body and maybe control it better.

But then, I'm spoiled by Brink.

I am still holding out hope given that it's still only half a season into her collegiate career, but the early returns are not promising. As the #1 recruit of her class and given her size and height, the obvious bar would be Brittney Griner.

And although I knew that would be very unlikely, given Griner's great freshman year at Baylor and who is ahead of her in the depth chart this year, I at least expected Betts to make more of an impact in close games, but I agree that her game doesn't seem to have caught up to the D1 collegiate level yet.

Hopefully with a season under her belt to understand the progress she needs to make and a summer/offseason to work on it, she can play a more significant role next year.

I tend to disagree on this. I feel like anywhere else she would get 35 minutes a game as a 6'7 post player with great hands and decent finishing ability around the rim. Most will live with her lack of speed or inability to be mobile in tight in-lane settings, which is typical for young posts. But she's at Stanford, where there's a lot of talent in front of her and Tara doesn't seem to have any patience in she's not immediately effective or it must be a blow out. There's a lot of post players who are a step slow, and still have a great influence on the game. But again, she's behind Brink and Iriafen here.

[TonyLima]

Betts still hasn't shown that much against the better teams.  We have plenty of post depth but she is a big part of the future there, and thus far, I'm not seeing what I thought I would from her.  

I agree with all your points.  I will add this about Betts which most fans will probably take objection.    I don't feel Betts is ready yet for the speed of top level DI college BB.   I would give her plenty of playing time in games where there is no doubt about the outcome.

I believe next year will be Betts' year largely because she will have time to grow into her body and be better able to handle the speed of good opponents.  Junior and senior year I look forward to some domination by her in the post.

If I had to predict, I don't think Betts will ever be great.  Her feet & hands are slow.  She's got a good shot close in, but right now, she can't hang onto the ball in a crowd.

I really hope I'm wrong.  Clearly she needs at least a year.  She's someone I would think about red-shirting next year, to give her time to get used to her body and maybe control it better.

But then, I'm spoiled by Brink.

I am still holding out hope given that it's still only half a season into her collegiate career, but the early returns are not promising. As the #1 recruit of her class and given her size and height, the obvious bar would be Brittney Griner.

And although I knew that would be very unlikely, given Griner's great freshman year at Baylor and who is ahead of her in the depth chart this year, I at least expected Betts to make more of an impact in close games, but I agree that her game doesn't seem to have caught up to the D1 collegiate level yet.

Hopefully with a season under her belt to understand the progress she needs to make and a summer/offseason to work on it, she can play a more significant role next year.

I tend to disagree on this. I feel like anywhere else she would get 35 minutes a game as a 6'7 post player with great hands and decent finishing ability around the rim. Most will live with her lack of speed or inability to be mobile in tight in-lane settings, which is typical for young posts. But she's at Stanford, where there's a lot of talent in front of her and Tara doesn't seem to have any patience in she's not immediately effective or it must be a blow out. There's a lot of post players who are a step slow, and still have a great influence on the game. But again, she's behind Brink and Iriafen here.

Now taking odds that Betts enters the transfer portal after this season.

[TonyLima]

Betts still hasn't shown that much against the better teams.  We have plenty of post depth but she is a big part of the future there, and thus far, I'm not seeing what I thought I would from her.  

I agree with all your points.  I will add this about Betts which most fans will probably take objection.    I don't feel Betts is ready yet for the speed of top level DI college BB.   I would give her plenty of playing time in games where there is no doubt about the outcome.

I believe next year will be Betts' year largely because she will have time to grow into her body and be better able to handle the speed of good opponents.  Junior and senior year I look forward to some domination by her in the post.

If I had to predict, I don't think Betts will ever be great.  Her feet & hands are slow.  She's got a good shot close in, but right now, she can't hang onto the ball in a crowd.

I really hope I'm wrong.  Clearly she needs at least a year.  She's someone I would think about red-shirting next year, to give her time to get used to her body and maybe control it better.

But then, I'm spoiled by Brink.

I am still holding out hope given that it's still only half a season into her collegiate career, but the early returns are not promising. As the #1 recruit of her class and given her size and height, the obvious bar would be Brittney Griner.

And although I knew that would be very unlikely, given Griner's great freshman year at Baylor and who is ahead of her in the depth chart this year, I at least expected Betts to make more of an impact in close games, but I agree that her game doesn't seem to have caught up to the D1 collegiate level yet.

Hopefully with a season under her belt to understand the progress she needs to make and a summer/offseason to work on it, she can play a more significant role next year.

I tend to disagree on this. I feel like anywhere else she would get 35 minutes a game as a 6'7 post player with great hands and decent finishing ability around the rim. Most will live with her lack of speed or inability to be mobile in tight in-lane settings, which is typical for young posts. But she's at Stanford, where there's a lot of talent in front of her and Tara doesn't seem to have any patience in she's not immediately effective or it must be a blow out. There's a lot of post players who are a step slow, and still have a great influence on the game. But again, she's behind Brink and Iriafen here.

Now taking odds that Betts enters the transfer portal after this season.

[mbdude]

I agree with all your points.  I will add this about Betts which most fans will probably take objection.    I don't feel Betts is ready yet for the speed of top level DI college BB.   I would give her plenty of playing time in games where there is no doubt about the outcome.

I believe next year will be Betts' year largely because she will have time to grow into her body and be better able to handle the speed of good opponents.  Junior and senior year I look forward to some domination by her in the post.

If I had to predict, I don't think Betts will ever be great.  Her feet & hands are slow.  She's got a good shot close in, but right now, she can't hang onto the ball in a crowd.

I really hope I'm wrong.  Clearly she needs at least a year.  She's someone I would think about red-shirting next year, to give her time to get used to her body and maybe control it better.

But then, I'm spoiled by Brink.

I am still holding out hope given that it's still only half a season into her collegiate career, but the early returns are not promising. As the #1 recruit of her class and given her size and height, the obvious bar would be Brittney Griner.

And although I knew that would be very unlikely, given Griner's great freshman year at Baylor and who is ahead of her in the depth chart this year, I at least expected Betts to make more of an impact in close games, but I agree that her game doesn't seem to have caught up to the D1 collegiate level yet.

Hopefully with a season under her belt to understand the progress she needs to make and a summer/offseason to work on it, she can play a more significant role next year.

I tend to disagree on this. I feel like anywhere else she would get 35 minutes a game as a 6'7 post player with great hands and decent finishing ability around the rim. Most will live with her lack of speed or inability to be mobile in tight in-lane settings, which is typical for young posts. But she's at Stanford, where there's a lot of talent in front of her and Tara doesn't seem to have any patience in she's not immediately effective or it must be a blow out. There's a lot of post players who are a step slow, and still have a great influence on the game. But again, she's behind Brink and Iriafen here.

Now taking odds that Betts enters the transfer portal after this season.

And Ashten

[mbdude]

I agree with all your points.  I will add this about Betts which most fans will probably take objection.    I don't feel Betts is ready yet for the speed of top level DI college BB.   I would give her plenty of playing time in games where there is no doubt about the outcome.

I believe next year will be Betts' year largely because she will have time to grow into her body and be better able to handle the speed of good opponents.  Junior and senior year I look forward to some domination by her in the post.

If I had to predict, I don't think Betts will ever be great.  Her feet & hands are slow.  She's got a good shot close in, but right now, she can't hang onto the ball in a crowd.

I really hope I'm wrong.  Clearly she needs at least a year.  She's someone I would think about red-shirting next year, to give her time to get used to her body and maybe control it better.

But then, I'm spoiled by Brink.

I am still holding out hope given that it's still only half a season into her collegiate career, but the early returns are not promising. As the #1 recruit of her class and given her size and height, the obvious bar would be Brittney Griner.

And although I knew that would be very unlikely, given Griner's great freshman year at Baylor and who is ahead of her in the depth chart this year, I at least expected Betts to make more of an impact in close games, but I agree that her game doesn't seem to have caught up to the D1 collegiate level yet.

Hopefully with a season under her belt to understand the progress she needs to make and a summer/offseason to work on it, she can play a more significant role next year.

I tend to disagree on this. I feel like anywhere else she would get 35 minutes a game as a 6'7 post player with great hands and decent finishing ability around the rim. Most will live with her lack of speed or inability to be mobile in tight in-lane settings, which is typical for young posts. But she's at Stanford, where there's a lot of talent in front of her and Tara doesn't seem to have any patience in she's not immediately effective or it must be a blow out. There's a lot of post players who are a step slow, and still have a great influence on the game. But again, she's behind Brink and Iriafen here.

Now taking odds that Betts enters the transfer portal after this season.

And Ashten

[M T]

Now taking odds that Betts enters the transfer portal after this season.

Only if her goal is to be a big fish in a small pond.

[M T]

Now taking odds that Betts enters the transfer portal after this season.

Only if her goal is to be a big fish in a small pond.

[CompSci87]

Things that concern me in no particular order:

Betts still hasn't shown that much against the better teams.  We have plenty of post depth but she is a big part of the future there, and thus far, I'm not seeing what I thought I would from her.  

I agree with all your points.  I will add this about Betts which most fans will probably take objection.    I don't feel Betts is ready yet for the speed of top level DI college BB.   I would give her plenty of playing time in games where there is no doubt about the outcome.

I believe next year will be Betts' year largely because she will have time to grow into her body and be better able to handle the speed of good opponents.  Junior and senior year I look forward to some domination by her in the post.

I agree she's not ready this year. Just hoping for that big jump to next year.

[CompSci87]

Things that concern me in no particular order:

Betts still hasn't shown that much against the better teams.  We have plenty of post depth but she is a big part of the future there, and thus far, I'm not seeing what I thought I would from her.  

I agree with all your points.  I will add this about Betts which most fans will probably take objection.    I don't feel Betts is ready yet for the speed of top level DI college BB.   I would give her plenty of playing time in games where there is no doubt about the outcome.

I believe next year will be Betts' year largely because she will have time to grow into her body and be better able to handle the speed of good opponents.  Junior and senior year I look forward to some domination by her in the post.

I agree she's not ready this year. Just hoping for that big jump to next year.

[BostonCard]

Players have transferred out of this program before, and will again, but I don’t think that speculation about specific players, on the basis of being on the bench in the absent any evidence does anyone any good.  I remember one prominent former poster being absolutely convinced that Ashton Prechtel was leaving for the portal.  Now a senior, she is still on the team, and still contributing as she can, even if she is not starting.  On the other hand, Jana van Gytenbeek, who many pegged as heir apparent to be our starting point guard, transferred to Baylor.  Go figure.  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 

I have no insight into Betts one way or another. If someone knows Betts or their family and she has made noises about being unhappy (not in confidence), then by all means share. But I’d avoid completely idle speculation just on the basis that her impact or playing time as a true freshman hasn’t been as great as some people had hoped.

BC

[BostonCard]

Players have transferred out of this program before, and will again, but I don’t think that speculation about specific players, on the basis of being on the bench in the absent any evidence does anyone any good.  I remember one prominent former poster being absolutely convinced that Ashton Prechtel was leaving for the portal.  Now a senior, she is still on the team, and still contributing as she can, even if she is not starting.  On the other hand, Jana van Gytenbeek, who many pegged as heir apparent to be our starting point guard, transferred to Baylor.  Go figure.  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 

I have no insight into Betts one way or another. If someone knows Betts or their family and she has made noises about being unhappy (not in confidence), then by all means share. But I’d avoid completely idle speculation just on the basis that her impact or playing time as a true freshman hasn’t been as great as some people had hoped.

BC

[Softball Fan]

Players have transferred out of this program before, and will again, but I don’t think that speculation about specific players, on the basis of being on the bench in the absent any evidence does anyone any good.  I remember one prominent former poster being absolutely convinced that Ashton Prechtel was leaving for the portal.  Now a senior, she is still on the team, and still contributing as she can, even if she is not starting.  On the other hand, Jana van Gytenbeek, who many pegged as heir apparent to be our starting point guard, transferred to Baylor.  Go figure.  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 

I have no insight into Betts one way or another. If someone knows Betts or their family and she has made noises about being unhappy (not in confidence), then by all means share. But I’d avoid completely idle speculation just on the basis that her impact or playing time as a true freshman hasn’t been as great as some people had hoped.

BC

Except I interpret those comments to be completely in jest; making light of what the transfer portal has become.  They are not serious predictions; only satire about the portal.

I personally expect Betts to get her degree from Stanford no matter what, no matter the playing time.  I have no info on that, just my opinion.  Would there be anything wrong with stating this opinion?

[Softball Fan]

Players have transferred out of this program before, and will again, but I don’t think that speculation about specific players, on the basis of being on the bench in the absent any evidence does anyone any good.  I remember one prominent former poster being absolutely convinced that Ashton Prechtel was leaving for the portal.  Now a senior, she is still on the team, and still contributing as she can, even if she is not starting.  On the other hand, Jana van Gytenbeek, who many pegged as heir apparent to be our starting point guard, transferred to Baylor.  Go figure.  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 

I have no insight into Betts one way or another. If someone knows Betts or their family and she has made noises about being unhappy (not in confidence), then by all means share. But I’d avoid completely idle speculation just on the basis that her impact or playing time as a true freshman hasn’t been as great as some people had hoped.

BC

Except I interpret those comments to be completely in jest; making light of what the transfer portal has become.  They are not serious predictions; only satire about the portal.

I personally expect Betts to get her degree from Stanford no matter what, no matter the playing time.  I have no info on that, just my opinion.  Would there be anything wrong with stating this opinion?

[Softball Fan]

Players have transferred out of this program before, and will again, but I don’t think that speculation about specific players, on the basis of being on the bench in the absent any evidence does anyone any good.  I remember one prominent former poster being absolutely convinced that Ashton Prechtel was leaving for the portal.  Now a senior, she is still on the team, and still contributing as she can, even if she is not starting.  On the other hand, Jana van Gytenbeek, who many pegged as heir apparent to be our starting point guard, transferred to Baylor.  Go figure.  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 

I have no insight into Betts one way or another. If someone knows Betts or their family and she has made noises about being unhappy (not in confidence), then by all means share. But I’d avoid completely idle speculation just on the basis that her impact or playing time as a true freshman hasn’t been as great as some people had hoped.

BC

Except I interpret those comments to be completely in jest; making light of what the transfer portal has become.  They are not serious predictions; only satire about the portal.

I personally expect Betts to get her degree from Stanford no matter what, no matter the playing time.  I have no info on that, just my opinion.  Would there be anything wrong with stating this opinion?

She was the number one recruit in the country and a two time national team member including starting as 17 year old on the U19 team in the world championship. 
Why do you feel she would be happy to stay not playing at all?

As I previously stated I expect next year to be her year and expect her to dominate junior and senior year.   I really  doubt she will  be "not playing at all".  Just a matter of time when she starts to get big minutes.

[Softball Fan]

Players have transferred out of this program before, and will again, but I don’t think that speculation about specific players, on the basis of being on the bench in the absent any evidence does anyone any good.  I remember one prominent former poster being absolutely convinced that Ashton Prechtel was leaving for the portal.  Now a senior, she is still on the team, and still contributing as she can, even if she is not starting.  On the other hand, Jana van Gytenbeek, who many pegged as heir apparent to be our starting point guard, transferred to Baylor.  Go figure.  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 

I have no insight into Betts one way or another. If someone knows Betts or their family and she has made noises about being unhappy (not in confidence), then by all means share. But I’d avoid completely idle speculation just on the basis that her impact or playing time as a true freshman hasn’t been as great as some people had hoped.

BC

Except I interpret those comments to be completely in jest; making light of what the transfer portal has become.  They are not serious predictions; only satire about the portal.

I personally expect Betts to get her degree from Stanford no matter what, no matter the playing time.  I have no info on that, just my opinion.  Would there be anything wrong with stating this opinion?

She was the number one recruit in the country and a two time national team member including starting as 17 year old on the U19 team in the world championship. 
Why do you feel she would be happy to stay not playing at all?

As I previously stated I expect next year to be her year and expect her to dominate junior and senior year.   I really  doubt she will  be "not playing at all".  Just a matter of time when she starts to get big minutes.

[stopandpop]

Tara has almost always been a master at making key adjustments at halftime.  Today was a rare exception.  I think Gottlieb outcoached Tara, not just preparing for the game but during the game.  I do have faith that we will be ready for Utah and Colorado and that Brink and Haley will respond.  I think Tara will use this game like this, as painful as it was, to re-start the team and get all or most of the parts moving again.  We may see some different offensive sets, but this is the kind of loss that (I think) will challenge our players - and that's a good thing.

[stopandpop]

Tara has almost always been a master at making key adjustments at halftime.  Today was a rare exception.  I think Gottlieb outcoached Tara, not just preparing for the game but during the game.  I do have faith that we will be ready for Utah and Colorado and that Brink and Haley will respond.  I think Tara will use this game like this, as painful as it was, to re-start the team and get all or most of the parts moving again.  We may see some different offensive sets, but this is the kind of loss that (I think) will challenge our players - and that's a good thing.

[jonnyss]

Give USC credit.

They scouted Stanford well, prepared a good defensive scheme, and executed it well.  Stanford's offense looked stagnant at times.   IMO that was due in large part to a well coached, aggressive defense.

For the long term I would like to see Tara recruit a top-level, mid-range shooter.  I recall Paige Bueckers hitting mid-range jump shots from everywhere on the court. It can break a team's defense.   For the most part Stanford makes points from behind the 3 point arc or close to the basket with not much mid-range capability.

both haley and brooke are excellent mid-range shooters. we just haven't been running those plays.  i believe brooke hit the one mid-range shot she took today.

[jonnyss]

Give USC credit.

They scouted Stanford well, prepared a good defensive scheme, and executed it well.  Stanford's offense looked stagnant at times.   IMO that was due in large part to a well coached, aggressive defense.

For the long term I would like to see Tara recruit a top-level, mid-range shooter.  I recall Paige Bueckers hitting mid-range jump shots from everywhere on the court. It can break a team's defense.   For the most part Stanford makes points from behind the 3 point arc or close to the basket with not much mid-range capability.

both haley and brooke are excellent mid-range shooters. we just haven't been running those plays.  i believe brooke hit the one mid-range shot she took today.

[TonyLima]

If I had to predict, I don't think Betts will ever be great.  Her feet & hands are slow.  She's got a good shot close in, but right now, she can't hang onto the ball in a crowd.

I really hope I'm wrong.  Clearly she needs at least a year.  She's someone I would think about red-shirting next year, to give her time to get used to her body and maybe control it better.

But then, I'm spoiled by Brink.

I am still holding out hope given that it's still only half a season into her collegiate career, but the early returns are not promising. As the #1 recruit of her class and given her size and height, the obvious bar would be Brittney Griner.

And although I knew that would be very unlikely, given Griner's great freshman year at Baylor and who is ahead of her in the depth chart this year, I at least expected Betts to make more of an impact in close games, but I agree that her game doesn't seem to have caught up to the D1 collegiate level yet.

Hopefully with a season under her belt to understand the progress she needs to make and a summer/offseason to work on it, she can play a more significant role next year.

I tend to disagree on this. I feel like anywhere else she would get 35 minutes a game as a 6'7 post player with great hands and decent finishing ability around the rim. Most will live with her lack of speed or inability to be mobile in tight in-lane settings, which is typical for young posts. But she's at Stanford, where there's a lot of talent in front of her and Tara doesn't seem to have any patience in she's not immediately effective or it must be a blow out. There's a lot of post players who are a step slow, and still have a great influence on the game. But again, she's behind Brink and Iriafen here.

Now taking odds that Betts enters the transfer portal after this season.

I find it quite amazing people are attacking Betts on here . 
She has played 2 mins a game the last 4/5 games. 
She is 12th in minutes per game but 5th in scoring , 4th in rebounding , 2nd in blocks and first in fg%. 
Just because Tara obviously has no clue how to use her doesn’t make it her fault. 
If she doesn’t play perfect on off and def in her 2 mins she comes out and is done that game,  she obviously is short on confidence because of how she’s being treated. 
People should be looking more at how we have one dimensional players who start and continue to play big mins but are very easy to take out of the game as has been proven the last few games, plus All Americans who aren’t able to score in big moments. 
I’m sure there are lots of other coaches who would love to have her and would give her meaningful minutes and not have her live on the play perfect in 2 mins or your done rule.

I, for one, have not attacked Ms. Betts. But I agree with whoever speculated that she’d be getting lots more playing time somewhere else. Consider my comment as a criticism of Tara’s use of her. Tara may be slipping into Mark Marquess coaching style.My guess is that Tara can’t figure out an offensive scheme that makes the best use of Ms. Betts. Sometimes having a 6’7” player camped under the boards is enough.

Mike Montgomery was an expert at using the big-bang theory of play in the paint. Exhibit 1: Mark Madsen. Maybe Tara should watch some of those videos.

[TonyLima]

If I had to predict, I don't think Betts will ever be great.  Her feet & hands are slow.  She's got a good shot close in, but right now, she can't hang onto the ball in a crowd.

I really hope I'm wrong.  Clearly she needs at least a year.  She's someone I would think about red-shirting next year, to give her time to get used to her body and maybe control it better.

But then, I'm spoiled by Brink.

I am still holding out hope given that it's still only half a season into her collegiate career, but the early returns are not promising. As the #1 recruit of her class and given her size and height, the obvious bar would be Brittney Griner.

And although I knew that would be very unlikely, given Griner's great freshman year at Baylor and who is ahead of her in the depth chart this year, I at least expected Betts to make more of an impact in close games, but I agree that her game doesn't seem to have caught up to the D1 collegiate level yet.

Hopefully with a season under her belt to understand the progress she needs to make and a summer/offseason to work on it, she can play a more significant role next year.

I tend to disagree on this. I feel like anywhere else she would get 35 minutes a game as a 6'7 post player with great hands and decent finishing ability around the rim. Most will live with her lack of speed or inability to be mobile in tight in-lane settings, which is typical for young posts. But she's at Stanford, where there's a lot of talent in front of her and Tara doesn't seem to have any patience in she's not immediately effective or it must be a blow out. There's a lot of post players who are a step slow, and still have a great influence on the game. But again, she's behind Brink and Iriafen here.

Now taking odds that Betts enters the transfer portal after this season.

I find it quite amazing people are attacking Betts on here . 
She has played 2 mins a game the last 4/5 games. 
She is 12th in minutes per game but 5th in scoring , 4th in rebounding , 2nd in blocks and first in fg%. 
Just because Tara obviously has no clue how to use her doesn’t make it her fault. 
If she doesn’t play perfect on off and def in her 2 mins she comes out and is done that game,  she obviously is short on confidence because of how she’s being treated. 
People should be looking more at how we have one dimensional players who start and continue to play big mins but are very easy to take out of the game as has been proven the last few games, plus All Americans who aren’t able to score in big moments. 
I’m sure there are lots of other coaches who would love to have her and would give her meaningful minutes and not have her live on the play perfect in 2 mins or your done rule.

I, for one, have not attacked Ms. Betts. But I agree with whoever speculated that she’d be getting lots more playing time somewhere else. Consider my comment as a criticism of Tara’s use of her. Tara may be slipping into Mark Marquess coaching style.My guess is that Tara can’t figure out an offensive scheme that makes the best use of Ms. Betts. Sometimes having a 6’7” player camped under the boards is enough.

Mike Montgomery was an expert at using the big-bang theory of play in the paint. Exhibit 1: Mark Madsen. Maybe Tara should watch some of those videos.

[BostonCard]

I wonder if we could set up some pick-and-rolls with Jones and Brink.  Jones is good at driving to the basket; Brink can be an effective screener and can go to the basket if the defense overplays Jones.  If the defense collapses to try to stop the play or clogs the paint, we can have Brink shoot from the elbow (not my favorite, but a decent option).  Lastly, we would have the option to kick out to Jump or Lepolo or another shooter.

BC

[BostonCard]

I wonder if we could set up some pick-and-rolls with Jones and Brink.  Jones is good at driving to the basket; Brink can be an effective screener and can go to the basket if the defense overplays Jones.  If the defense collapses to try to stop the play or clogs the paint, we can have Brink shoot from the elbow (not my favorite, but a decent option).  Lastly, we would have the option to kick out to Jump or Lepolo or another shooter.

BC

[chimera]

I looked at the box scores for the past five games.  Betts played well against Cal in our blowout win in late Dec - 10 minutes 4-7 3 rebounds, 1 PF 1 TO.  She played well against ASU - 15 minutes 5-7 6 boards, 2 TO.  Against UA she played 4 minutes 0-1, 3 boards.  Against UCLA she played 2 minutes and was 0-1 with 1 board and 1 TO.  Today against USC she played 3 minutes and was 0-1.  There is also the defensive factor.  Is she playing defense as well as Iriafen, Prechtel or Belibi, the players she is mostly competing against for playing time?  

Overall it seems to me that Tara plays her when she can, giving her more minutes in games we are winning easily and fewer when we are in a dogfight.  That is the same thing she has done with other players like Bosgana, Nivar, etc.  I don't think the idea is to play her 2 minutes and take her out if she makes a mistake, it is to put her in, see if she is able at this stage in her career, to do what is needed on Offense and especially on defense, and if not quite there yet, she comes out, which is what we see with others on the bench.  I don't think she is being treated differently than others on the bench.  

The biggest reason she isn't playing that much is she has one soph, one junior, and two seniors ahead of her who also need playing time.  Belibi and Prechtel each played 6 minutes against UCLA.  Against USC Prechtel played 5, mostly at the end because she shoots from outside, and Belibi played 2 minutes.  I don't see how Betts is being treated as different from how they are, and they are much more experienced.

I also agree with those who think the transfer stuff is not cool and not funny, and it can start rumors based on nothing.  

Bottom line is I would like to see more of Betts.  I think she could have a bright future, but I also see that she has things to work on.  I did not see anything in todays game that made me think darn, if only Tara had played Betts more.  The fact that she is getting into tough games at all says to me that the coaches see her as someone they want very much to develop.  What fans say, positive or negative, is irrelevant.  Personally I hoped by now she would be more integrated into the rotation, but I totally see why she is not there....yet, big emphasis on YET.  I hope she has patience and is learning and improving practicing against other top posts.

[chimera]

I looked at the box scores for the past five games.  Betts played well against Cal in our blowout win in late Dec - 10 minutes 4-7 3 rebounds, 1 PF 1 TO.  She played well against ASU - 15 minutes 5-7 6 boards, 2 TO.  Against UA she played 4 minutes 0-1, 3 boards.  Against UCLA she played 2 minutes and was 0-1 with 1 board and 1 TO.  Today against USC she played 3 minutes and was 0-1.  There is also the defensive factor.  Is she playing defense as well as Iriafen, Prechtel or Belibi, the players she is mostly competing against for playing time?  

Overall it seems to me that Tara plays her when she can, giving her more minutes in games we are winning easily and fewer when we are in a dogfight.  That is the same thing she has done with other players like Bosgana, Nivar, etc.  I don't think the idea is to play her 2 minutes and take her out if she makes a mistake, it is to put her in, see if she is able at this stage in her career, to do what is needed on Offense and especially on defense, and if not quite there yet, she comes out, which is what we see with others on the bench.  I don't think she is being treated differently than others on the bench.  

The biggest reason she isn't playing that much is she has one soph, one junior, and two seniors ahead of her who also need playing time.  Belibi and Prechtel each played 6 minutes against UCLA.  Against USC Prechtel played 5, mostly at the end because she shoots from outside, and Belibi played 2 minutes.  I don't see how Betts is being treated as different from how they are, and they are much more experienced.

I also agree with those who think the transfer stuff is not cool and not funny, and it can start rumors based on nothing.  

Bottom line is I would like to see more of Betts.  I think she could have a bright future, but I also see that she has things to work on.  I did not see anything in todays game that made me think darn, if only Tara had played Betts more.  The fact that she is getting into tough games at all says to me that the coaches see her as someone they want very much to develop.  What fans say, positive or negative, is irrelevant.  Personally I hoped by now she would be more integrated into the rotation, but I totally see why she is not there....yet, big emphasis on YET.  I hope she has patience and is learning and improving practicing against other top posts.

[MV72018]

What a dismal performance. Once again, Jones Rebounds well but shoots less than 25% (3 for 13) from the field. When Brink and Jump don’t make up for that lack of production, we are in trouble. Why is Jones such a poor shooter this year? I wonder whether she is actually in peak physical condition. I tend to doubt that she is but of course I’m not sure about that. It is clear that Tara had better do some serious tethinking of this team’s lineup and offensive strategy pronto. Unless Tara is okay with Brink being double teamed down low, she’d better find some outside shooters other than streaky Hanna Jump right now. Haley Jones is not one of them. Agnes may deserve a look as a starter. Perhaps Belibi should replace Iriakin for a while. Unless serious changes are made, Stanford is unlikely to make the Final Four. That would be a scandal given the talent on the roster.

[MV72018]

What a dismal performance. Once again, Jones Rebounds well but shoots less than 25% (3 for 13) from the field. When Brink and Jump don’t make up for that lack of production, we are in trouble. Why is Jones such a poor shooter this year? I wonder whether she is actually in peak physical condition. I tend to doubt that she is but of course I’m not sure about that. It is clear that Tara had better do some serious tethinking of this team’s lineup and offensive strategy pronto. Unless Tara is okay with Brink being double teamed down low, she’d better find some outside shooters other than streaky Hanna Jump right now. Haley Jones is not one of them. Agnes may deserve a look as a starter. Perhaps Belibi should replace Iriakin for a while. Unless serious changes are made, Stanford is unlikely to make the Final Four. That would be a scandal given the talent on the roster.

[stopandpop]

Give USC credit.

They scouted Stanford well, prepared a good defensive scheme, and executed it well.  Stanford's offense looked stagnant at times.   IMO that was due in large part to a well coached, aggressive defense.

For the long term I would like to see Tara recruit a top-level, mid-range shooter.  I recall Paige Bueckers hitting mid-range jump shots from everywhere on the court. It can break a team's defense.   For the most part Stanford makes points from behind the 3 point arc or close to the basket with not much mid-range capability.

both haley and brooke are excellent mid-range shooters. we just haven't been running those plays.  i believe brooke hit the one mid-range shot she took today.

I agree that Haley and Brooke are very capable of hitting mid-range shots and we're not executing the mid-range game. Earlier in the season, Brooke was hitting mid-range shots. I would like to see Brink shooting mid-range shots as well since her 3-point shooting has (for now) deserted her.  I believe she would create more problems for our opponents and add a key dimension to her game.  So many PAC-12 teams seem to have a player or two who excels in that area.  Lexie and Kianna were great in this area.  

I'm also wondering if anyone thinks that 'SC is simply not a good match-up for us?  As a comparison, we matched up especially well against South Carolina and have matched up well against them in our other games.  Would like your thoughts on this.

[stopandpop]

Give USC credit.

They scouted Stanford well, prepared a good defensive scheme, and executed it well.  Stanford's offense looked stagnant at times.   IMO that was due in large part to a well coached, aggressive defense.

For the long term I would like to see Tara recruit a top-level, mid-range shooter.  I recall Paige Bueckers hitting mid-range jump shots from everywhere on the court. It can break a team's defense.   For the most part Stanford makes points from behind the 3 point arc or close to the basket with not much mid-range capability.

both haley and brooke are excellent mid-range shooters. we just haven't been running those plays.  i believe brooke hit the one mid-range shot she took today.

I agree that Haley and Brooke are very capable of hitting mid-range shots and we're not executing the mid-range game. Earlier in the season, Brooke was hitting mid-range shots. I would like to see Brink shooting mid-range shots as well since her 3-point shooting has (for now) deserted her.  I believe she would create more problems for our opponents and add a key dimension to her game.  So many PAC-12 teams seem to have a player or two who excels in that area.  Lexie and Kianna were great in this area.  

I'm also wondering if anyone thinks that 'SC is simply not a good match-up for us?  As a comparison, we matched up especially well against South Carolina and have matched up well against them in our other games.  Would like your thoughts on this.

[chimera]

Give USC credit.

They scouted Stanford well, prepared a good defensive scheme, and executed it well.  Stanford's offense looked stagnant at times.   IMO that was due in large part to a well coached, aggressive defense.

For the long term I would like to see Tara recruit a top-level, mid-range shooter.  I recall Paige Bueckers hitting mid-range jump shots from everywhere on the court. It can break a team's defense.   For the most part Stanford makes points from behind the 3 point arc or close to the basket with not much mid-range capability.

both haley and brooke are excellent mid-range shooters. we just haven't been running those plays.  i believe brooke hit the one mid-range shot she took today.

I agree that Haley and Brooke are very capable of hitting mid-range shots and we're not executing the mid-range game. Earlier in the season, Brooke was hitting mid-range shots. I would like to see Brink shooting mid-range shots as well since her 3-point shooting has (for now) deserted her.  I believe she would create more problems for our opponents and add a key dimension to her game.  So many PAC-12 teams seem to have a player or two who excels in that area.  Lexie and Kianna were great in this area.  

I'm also wondering if anyone thinks that 'SC is simply not a good match-up for us?  As a comparison, we matched up especially well against South Carolina and have matched up well against them in our other games.  Would like your thoughts on this.

Agree with your thoughts about the mid-range.  We did that more earlier and I kinda think it is better to try some mid-range stuff when you shoot a bunch of threes and hit 15% of them or whatever.

As far as USC being a bad match-up, I don't think they are particularly bad for us.  They deserve credit for a great defensive game for sure.  Maybe the whole team has the flu or something.  USC sure had more energy and pace than we did.  They were more aggressive by far.  We seemed a step slow on offense (yuck) and defense (reaching and fouling).  The more I think of it the more I am ready to just move on and see how we do against Utah and especially against CO, who also plays a defensive style.  If we struggle as much against CO I will be very concerned.  If we show much better pace on offense, better shot selection, etc., etc. against their defense, I will feel much more encouraged that this was just one really, really bad day at the office.

[chimera]

Give USC credit.

They scouted Stanford well, prepared a good defensive scheme, and executed it well.  Stanford's offense looked stagnant at times.   IMO that was due in large part to a well coached, aggressive defense.

For the long term I would like to see Tara recruit a top-level, mid-range shooter.  I recall Paige Bueckers hitting mid-range jump shots from everywhere on the court. It can break a team's defense.   For the most part Stanford makes points from behind the 3 point arc or close to the basket with not much mid-range capability.

both haley and brooke are excellent mid-range shooters. we just haven't been running those plays.  i believe brooke hit the one mid-range shot she took today.

I agree that Haley and Brooke are very capable of hitting mid-range shots and we're not executing the mid-range game. Earlier in the season, Brooke was hitting mid-range shots. I would like to see Brink shooting mid-range shots as well since her 3-point shooting has (for now) deserted her.  I believe she would create more problems for our opponents and add a key dimension to her game.  So many PAC-12 teams seem to have a player or two who excels in that area.  Lexie and Kianna were great in this area.  

I'm also wondering if anyone thinks that 'SC is simply not a good match-up for us?  As a comparison, we matched up especially well against South Carolina and have matched up well against them in our other games.  Would like your thoughts on this.

Agree with your thoughts about the mid-range.  We did that more earlier and I kinda think it is better to try some mid-range stuff when you shoot a bunch of threes and hit 15% of them or whatever.

As far as USC being a bad match-up, I don't think they are particularly bad for us.  They deserve credit for a great defensive game for sure.  Maybe the whole team has the flu or something.  USC sure had more energy and pace than we did.  They were more aggressive by far.  We seemed a step slow on offense (yuck) and defense (reaching and fouling).  The more I think of it the more I am ready to just move on and see how we do against Utah and especially against CO, who also plays a defensive style.  If we struggle as much against CO I will be very concerned.  If we show much better pace on offense, better shot selection, etc., etc. against their defense, I will feel much more encouraged that this was just one really, really bad day at the office.

[qwerty49]

Ouch, that was so painful to watch.  I don't think I've seen us play that poorly for a very long time, maybe not since the UConn debacle in the Appel days.  Did we only have 4 pts in the 1st Q or was it me just covering my eyes?

Credit to USC -- nice scouting by Gottlieb, and their athletic posts blocked Cam several times.  Littleton was impossible to defend until Tara finally put Agnes on her for a while.

But weakness #1 is that our starting guards are not big or quick enough to shut down the opposing guards.

Weakness #2 is that standing around and waiting for Haley to either make a brilliant play or a silly TO is not a high percentage strategy.

Weakness #3 is that Iriafen still needs to learn how to box out and get position when Cam has the ball.  She had one nice putback and that was it.

I liked subbing Demetre in for Iriafen but it did not open up our offense like I hoped it would.

Betts is just not there yet.  She was losing position to smaller, skinnier players.  And wow, what butterfingers, 2 muffs in 2 minutes.  

Yes, the shots weren't falling but SC's shooters were open and ours weren't.  I hope everyone, including Tara, has some time to chew on this one for a while.  I know this sounds weird but it was a well-deserved loss.

[qwerty49]

Ouch, that was so painful to watch.  I don't think I've seen us play that poorly for a very long time, maybe not since the UConn debacle in the Appel days.  Did we only have 4 pts in the 1st Q or was it me just covering my eyes?

Credit to USC -- nice scouting by Gottlieb, and their athletic posts blocked Cam several times.  Littleton was impossible to defend until Tara finally put Agnes on her for a while.

But weakness #1 is that our starting guards are not big or quick enough to shut down the opposing guards.

Weakness #2 is that standing around and waiting for Haley to either make a brilliant play or a silly TO is not a high percentage strategy.

Weakness #3 is that Iriafen still needs to learn how to box out and get position when Cam has the ball.  She had one nice putback and that was it.

I liked subbing Demetre in for Iriafen but it did not open up our offense like I hoped it would.

Betts is just not there yet.  She was losing position to smaller, skinnier players.  And wow, what butterfingers, 2 muffs in 2 minutes.  

Yes, the shots weren't falling but SC's shooters were open and ours weren't.  I hope everyone, including Tara, has some time to chew on this one for a while.  I know this sounds weird but it was a well-deserved loss.

[TheFarm07]

Ugh, of course, the only time we make the front page of ESPN's website is when we lose.

[TheFarm07]

Ugh, of course, the only time we make the front page of ESPN's website is when we lose.