[oldalum]

If you think of what a coach’s goal is during an outing to the media is, I think in order, they are:
* Not say anything remotely controversial that might land you in trouble (so press conferences are boring)
* Not say anything that will cause any strife within the team (so press conferences tend to be vague and positive)
* Not say anything that might help other teams (so they tend to be uninformative)
* Say things that will get fans to buy tickets (so they tend to be positive)
* Get out of the room as quickly as possible.

An addition to your list

[oldalum]

If you think of what a coach’s goal is during an outing to the media is, I think in order, they are:
* Not say anything remotely controversial that might land you in trouble (so press conferences are boring)
* Not say anything that will cause any strife within the team (so press conferences tend to be vague and positive)
* Not say anything that might help other teams (so they tend to be uninformative)
* Say things that will get fans to buy tickets (so they tend to be positive)
* Get out of the room as quickly as possible.

An addition to your list

[M T]

I think she will crack that lineup. She's quicker than I expected.

super-quick indeed, confident and accurate on her lay-ups in traffic. i don't see a mid-range shot, a 3-point shot, or much defense, but i suppose those might emerge.

nigeria-argentina. she is jersey #2.

Highlights don't give much sense of defense, but she had several in-close defensive stops.  I saw her sitting wide open on the 3pt line, but her team wasn't giving her the ball. Again she showed lots of good slashes, plus movement without the ball.  She had one drive from mid-court, which seemed a little much.   But her team won by 8.
I don't think I've seen her take a shot from more than 3 feet from the basket (but, in highlights, they wouldn't show misses).  I continue to be impressed.

[M T]

I think she will crack that lineup. She's quicker than I expected.

super-quick indeed, confident and accurate on her lay-ups in traffic. i don't see a mid-range shot, a 3-point shot, or much defense, but i suppose those might emerge.

nigeria-argentina. she is jersey #2.

Highlights don't give much sense of defense, but she had several in-close defensive stops.  I saw her sitting wide open on the 3pt line, but her team wasn't giving her the ball. Again she showed lots of good slashes, plus movement without the ball.  She had one drive from mid-court, which seemed a little much.   But her team won by 8.
I don't think I've seen her take a shot from more than 3 feet from the basket (but, in highlights, they wouldn't show misses).  I continue to be impressed.

[bl82]

I think she will crack that lineup. She's quicker than I expected.

super-quick indeed, confident and accurate on her lay-ups in traffic. i don't see a mid-range shot, a 3-point shot, or much defense, but i suppose those might emerge.

nigeria-argentina. she is jersey #2.

Highlights don't give much sense of defense, but she had several in-close defensive stops.  I saw her sitting wide open on the 3pt line, but her team wasn't giving her the ball. Again she showed lots of good slashes, plus movement without the ball.  She had one drive from mid-court, which seemed a little much.   But her team won by 8.
I don't think I've seen her take a shot from more than 3 feet from the basket (but, in highlights, they wouldn't show misses).  I continue to be impressed.

While all the above may be true, keep in mind that as a frosh Nneka's offensive arsenal was pretty much limited to putbacks on offensive rebounds. She then learned some footwork and post moves, later added a short jumper, then every year extended her range and added to her library of moves. The finished product was amazing and was on display when she put up 42 in a win against Tennessee. Granted, she worked like crazy to improve, but the woman who arrived out of HS was about as raw as they come in terms of offensive skills.

[bl82]

I think she will crack that lineup. She's quicker than I expected.

super-quick indeed, confident and accurate on her lay-ups in traffic. i don't see a mid-range shot, a 3-point shot, or much defense, but i suppose those might emerge.

nigeria-argentina. she is jersey #2.

Highlights don't give much sense of defense, but she had several in-close defensive stops.  I saw her sitting wide open on the 3pt line, but her team wasn't giving her the ball. Again she showed lots of good slashes, plus movement without the ball.  She had one drive from mid-court, which seemed a little much.   But her team won by 8.
I don't think I've seen her take a shot from more than 3 feet from the basket (but, in highlights, they wouldn't show misses).  I continue to be impressed.

While all the above may be true, keep in mind that as a frosh Nneka's offensive arsenal was pretty much limited to putbacks on offensive rebounds. She then learned some footwork and post moves, later added a short jumper, then every year extended her range and added to her library of moves. The finished product was amazing and was on display when she put up 42 in a win against Tennessee. Granted, she worked like crazy to improve, but the woman who arrived out of HS was about as raw as they come in terms of offensive skills.

[M T]

While all the above may be true, keep in mind that as a frosh Nneka's offensive arsenal was pretty much limited to putbacks on offensive rebounds.  She then learned some footwork and post moves, later added a short jumper, then every year extended her range and added to her library of moves.  The finished product was amazing and was on display when she put up 42 in a win against Tennessee.  Granted, she worked like crazy to improve, but the woman who arrived out of HS was about as raw as they come in terms of offensive skills.

Nobody here has compared her to Nneka but you speak as if that's what's been discussed.  
Are you basing the comparison on her Nigerian heritage?
(I believe both were born in the US, but different states.  FIBA lists Ezike's nationality as "US/NGR".)

From what you say, I would surmise you haven't watched the videos.

It would be great if Ezike developed into a Nneka-level player.  Of course, college is a transition (I don't recall if Nneka played in any international competition before Stanford.  I'm thinking not.)   Ezike is only 6'0" at this point (Stanford listed Nneka as 6'2" as a Freshman).  A lot depends on if and how much she grows.

I think Nigeria & Ezike's 25 points caught China off guard on the first day of the U19.  They met again and China won 96-71 (Ezike 12 pts, 9 reb in 30 min.   Her shooting percentage was way down, so I guess she either forced shots or they guarded her differently.)

Some high school articles on her:  #1  #2

[M T]

While all the above may be true, keep in mind that as a frosh Nneka's offensive arsenal was pretty much limited to putbacks on offensive rebounds.  She then learned some footwork and post moves, later added a short jumper, then every year extended her range and added to her library of moves.  The finished product was amazing and was on display when she put up 42 in a win against Tennessee.  Granted, she worked like crazy to improve, but the woman who arrived out of HS was about as raw as they come in terms of offensive skills.

Nobody here has compared her to Nneka but you speak as if that's what's been discussed.  
Are you basing the comparison on her Nigerian heritage?
(I believe both were born in the US, but different states.  FIBA lists Ezike's nationality as "US/NGR".)

From what you say, I would surmise you haven't watched the videos.

It would be great if Ezike developed into a Nneka-level player.  Of course, college is a transition (I don't recall if Nneka played in any international competition before Stanford.  I'm thinking not.)   Ezike is only 6'0" at this point (Stanford listed Nneka as 6'2" as a Freshman).  A lot depends on if and how much she grows.

I think Nigeria & Ezike's 25 points caught China off guard on the first day of the U19.  They met again and China won 96-71 (Ezike 12 pts, 9 reb in 30 min.   Her shooting percentage was way down, so I guess she either forced shots or they guarded her differently.)

Some high school articles on her:  #1  #2

[bl82]

I watched the video of the first game against China and was simply trying to make the point that you never know how someone is going to develop offensively. Ethnicity has nothing to do with it. I almost used Hannah Jump as an example. Landry Fields is a good example on the men’s side. Hard work and development can dramatically change who you are as a basketball player while in college, regardless of size or position.

[bl82]

I watched the video of the first game against China and was simply trying to make the point that you never know how someone is going to develop offensively. Ethnicity has nothing to do with it. I almost used Hannah Jump as an example. Landry Fields is a good example on the men’s side. Hard work and development can dramatically change who you are as a basketball player while in college, regardless of size or position.

[BobK]

I was about to post to MT about my time sitting with BL82 watching Landry Fields on his offical visit to Stanford BL was perfect in his evaluation as it turned out.
MT really no need to criticize posters :)

[BobK]

I was about to post to MT about my time sitting with BL82 watching Landry Fields on his offical visit to Stanford BL was perfect in his evaluation as it turned out.
MT really no need to criticize posters :)

[!ZAR!]

While all the above may be true, keep in mind that as a frosh Nneka's offensive arsenal was pretty much limited to putbacks on offensive rebounds.  She then learned some footwork and post moves, later added a short jumper, then every year extended her range and added to her library of moves.  The finished product was amazing and was on display when she put up 42 in a win against Tennessee.  Granted, she worked like crazy to improve, but the woman who arrived out of HS was about as raw as they come in terms of offensive skills.

Nobody here has compared her to Nneka but you speak as if that's what's been discussed.  
Are you basing the comparison on her Nigerian heritage?
(I believe both were born in the US, but different states.  FIBA lists Ezike's nationality as "US/NGR".)

From what you say, I would surmise you haven't watched the videos.

It would be great if Ezike developed into a Nneka-level player.  Of course, college is a transition (I don't recall if Nneka played in any international competition before Stanford.  I'm thinking not.)   Ezike is only 6'0" at this point (Stanford listed Nneka as 6'2" as a Freshman).  A lot depends on if and how much she grows.

I think Nigeria & Ezike's 25 points caught China off guard on the first day of the U19.  They met again and China won 96-71 (Ezike 12 pts, 9 reb in 30 min.   Her shooting percentage was way down, so I guess she either forced shots or they guarded her differently.)

Some high school articles on her:  #1  #2

Nora has long been listed at 6'2", including on the Stanford roster...  not fair to compare anyone to Nneka, but her role could be somewhere in the  Nunu/Fran/Nneka spectrum... clearly has potential.

[!ZAR!]

While all the above may be true, keep in mind that as a frosh Nneka's offensive arsenal was pretty much limited to putbacks on offensive rebounds.  She then learned some footwork and post moves, later added a short jumper, then every year extended her range and added to her library of moves.  The finished product was amazing and was on display when she put up 42 in a win against Tennessee.  Granted, she worked like crazy to improve, but the woman who arrived out of HS was about as raw as they come in terms of offensive skills.

Nobody here has compared her to Nneka but you speak as if that's what's been discussed.  
Are you basing the comparison on her Nigerian heritage?
(I believe both were born in the US, but different states.  FIBA lists Ezike's nationality as "US/NGR".)

From what you say, I would surmise you haven't watched the videos.

It would be great if Ezike developed into a Nneka-level player.  Of course, college is a transition (I don't recall if Nneka played in any international competition before Stanford.  I'm thinking not.)   Ezike is only 6'0" at this point (Stanford listed Nneka as 6'2" as a Freshman).  A lot depends on if and how much she grows.

I think Nigeria & Ezike's 25 points caught China off guard on the first day of the U19.  They met again and China won 96-71 (Ezike 12 pts, 9 reb in 30 min.   Her shooting percentage was way down, so I guess she either forced shots or they guarded her differently.)

Some high school articles on her:  #1  #2

Nora has long been listed at 6'2", including on the Stanford roster...  not fair to compare anyone to Nneka, but her role could be somewhere in the  Nunu/Fran/Nneka spectrum... clearly has potential.

[CompSci87]

While all the above may be true, keep in mind that as a frosh Nneka's offensive arsenal was pretty much limited to putbacks on offensive rebounds.  She then learned some footwork and post moves, later added a short jumper, then every year extended her range and added to her library of moves.  The finished product was amazing and was on display when she put up 42 in a win against Tennessee.  Granted, she worked like crazy to improve, but the woman who arrived out of HS was about as raw as they come in terms of offensive skills.

Nobody here has compared her to Nneka but you speak as if that's what's been discussed.  
Are you basing the comparison on her Nigerian heritage?
(I believe both were born in the US, but different states.  FIBA lists Ezike's nationality as "US/NGR".)

From what you say, I would surmise you haven't watched the videos.

It would be great if Ezike developed into a Nneka-level player.  Of course, college is a transition (I don't recall if Nneka played in any international competition before Stanford.  I'm thinking not.)   Ezike is only 6'0" at this point (Stanford listed Nneka as 6'2" as a Freshman).  A lot depends on if and how much she grows.

I think Nigeria & Ezike's 25 points caught China off guard on the first day of the U19.  They met again and China won 96-71 (Ezike 12 pts, 9 reb in 30 min.   Her shooting percentage was way down, so I guess she either forced shots or they guarded her differently.)

Some high school articles on her:  #1  #2

FWIW, article #2 calls Ezike 6"2'.

[CompSci87]

While all the above may be true, keep in mind that as a frosh Nneka's offensive arsenal was pretty much limited to putbacks on offensive rebounds.  She then learned some footwork and post moves, later added a short jumper, then every year extended her range and added to her library of moves.  The finished product was amazing and was on display when she put up 42 in a win against Tennessee.  Granted, she worked like crazy to improve, but the woman who arrived out of HS was about as raw as they come in terms of offensive skills.

Nobody here has compared her to Nneka but you speak as if that's what's been discussed.  
Are you basing the comparison on her Nigerian heritage?
(I believe both were born in the US, but different states.  FIBA lists Ezike's nationality as "US/NGR".)

From what you say, I would surmise you haven't watched the videos.

It would be great if Ezike developed into a Nneka-level player.  Of course, college is a transition (I don't recall if Nneka played in any international competition before Stanford.  I'm thinking not.)   Ezike is only 6'0" at this point (Stanford listed Nneka as 6'2" as a Freshman).  A lot depends on if and how much she grows.

I think Nigeria & Ezike's 25 points caught China off guard on the first day of the U19.  They met again and China won 96-71 (Ezike 12 pts, 9 reb in 30 min.   Her shooting percentage was way down, so I guess she either forced shots or they guarded her differently.)

Some high school articles on her:  #1  #2

FWIW, article #2 calls Ezike 6"2'.

[crackpot]

While all the above may be true, keep in mind that as a frosh Nneka's offensive arsenal was pretty much limited to putbacks on offensive rebounds.  She then learned some footwork and post moves, later added a short jumper, then every year extended her range and added to her library of moves.  The finished product was amazing and was on display when she put up 42 in a win against Tennessee.  Granted, she worked like crazy to improve, but the woman who arrived out of HS was about as raw as they come in terms of offensive skills.

Nobody here has compared her to Nneka but you speak as if that's what's been discussed.  
Are you basing the comparison on her Nigerian heritage?
(I believe both were born in the US, but different states.  FIBA lists Ezike's nationality as "US/NGR".)

From what you say, I would surmise you haven't watched the videos.

It would be great if Ezike developed into a Nneka-level player.  Of course, college is a transition (I don't recall if Nneka played in any international competition before Stanford.  I'm thinking not.)   Ezike is only 6'0" at this point (Stanford listed Nneka as 6'2" as a Freshman).  A lot depends on if and how much she grows.

I think Nigeria & Ezike's 25 points caught China off guard on the first day of the U19.  They met again and China won 96-71 (Ezike 12 pts, 9 reb in 30 min.   Her shooting percentage was way down, so I guess she either forced shots or they guarded her differently.)

Some high school articles on her:  #1  #2

Nneka played for Team USA before, during, and after Stanford:

• 2008 USA U18 team that won gold in Argentina.
  
• 2009 USA U19 team that won gold in Thailand
  
• 2011 USA World University Games in China (with Chiney), won gold.
  
• 2014 USA FIBA World Championships, won gold.
  

[crackpot]

While all the above may be true, keep in mind that as a frosh Nneka's offensive arsenal was pretty much limited to putbacks on offensive rebounds.  She then learned some footwork and post moves, later added a short jumper, then every year extended her range and added to her library of moves.  The finished product was amazing and was on display when she put up 42 in a win against Tennessee.  Granted, she worked like crazy to improve, but the woman who arrived out of HS was about as raw as they come in terms of offensive skills.

Nobody here has compared her to Nneka but you speak as if that's what's been discussed.  
Are you basing the comparison on her Nigerian heritage?
(I believe both were born in the US, but different states.  FIBA lists Ezike's nationality as "US/NGR".)

From what you say, I would surmise you haven't watched the videos.

It would be great if Ezike developed into a Nneka-level player.  Of course, college is a transition (I don't recall if Nneka played in any international competition before Stanford.  I'm thinking not.)   Ezike is only 6'0" at this point (Stanford listed Nneka as 6'2" as a Freshman).  A lot depends on if and how much she grows.

I think Nigeria & Ezike's 25 points caught China off guard on the first day of the U19.  They met again and China won 96-71 (Ezike 12 pts, 9 reb in 30 min.   Her shooting percentage was way down, so I guess she either forced shots or they guarded her differently.)

Some high school articles on her:  #1  #2

Nneka played for Team USA before, during, and after Stanford:

• 2008 USA U18 team that won gold in Argentina.
  
• 2009 USA U19 team that won gold in Thailand
  
• 2011 USA World University Games in China (with Chiney), won gold.
  
• 2014 USA FIBA World Championships, won gold.
  

[M T]

FWIW, article #2 calls Ezike 6"2'.

FIBA lists her as 6’0”
https://www.fiba.basketball/en/events/fi...nora-ezike

I see other sites say 6’2” and at least one that says 6’3”.  

I figured FIBA would measure her, but maybe not

[M T]

FWIW, article #2 calls Ezike 6"2'.

FIBA lists her as 6’0”
https://www.fiba.basketball/en/events/fi...nora-ezike

I see other sites say 6’2” and at least one that says 6’3”.  

I figured FIBA would measure her, but maybe not

[biketoc]

This may have been posted somewhere else, but I am just seeing this. I never received an email about it.  Open practice this Thursday -
https://tickets.gostanford.com/event/wom...aft-zbwh91

[biketoc]

This may have been posted somewhere else, but I am just seeing this. I never received an email about it.  Open practice this Thursday -
https://tickets.gostanford.com/event/wom...aft-zbwh91

[CompSci87]

This may have been posted somewhere else, but I am just seeing this. I never received an email about it.  Open practice this Thursday -
https://tickets.gostanford.com/event/wom...aft-zbwh91

Thanks for posting. This is the first I've heard of it too

[CompSci87]

This may have been posted somewhere else, but I am just seeing this. I never received an email about it.  Open practice this Thursday -
https://tickets.gostanford.com/event/wom...aft-zbwh91

Thanks for posting. This is the first I've heard of it too

[bl82]

Anyone catch yesterday's open practice and have any thoughts? Unfortunately, I was unable to make it, despite my growing enthusiasm about our stellar (pending first impressions) freshman class.

[bl82]

Anyone catch yesterday's open practice and have any thoughts? Unfortunately, I was unable to make it, despite my growing enthusiasm about our stellar (pending first impressions) freshman class.

[OCcardinal]

FWIW, article #2 calls Ezike 6"2'.

FIBA lists her as 6’0”
https://www.fiba.basketball/en/events/fi...nora-ezike

I see other sites say 6’2” and at least one that says 6’3”.  

I figured FIBA would measure her, but maybe not

6'-2" seems the more accurate. In photos Nora appears to be the same height at Carly Amborn. If we trust Carly is 6'-2" then so is Nora. 

Nora really had a terrific World Cup.  She was #1 for Nigeria in points per game (12.1), rebounds per game (7.0) and efficiency per game (11.6).  Overall she was #21 in pts per game, #9 in reb per game and #30 in eff per game. Considering there were 16 teams in the tournament, that's pretty good. The only ESPNW-ranked US college recruit with better stats than her in all three categories was Sienna Betts.

We know about the three 5-Star McD All-Americans in this class (Hailee Swain, Lara Somfai and Alex Eschmeyer), but Nora's U19 World Cup performance suggests she shouldn't be left out of the conversation of players who could make an immediate impact. And I'm also encouraged by the positive news of how well Carly Amborn has been shooting in the early practices.  This is a special class.  It reminds me a lot of the 2016 Women's Volleyball recruiting class in terms of a deep class with a great mix of talents. I'm not saying this class is going to win us 3 National Championships like that one did, but I expect them to have a significant impact.

[OCcardinal]

FWIW, article #2 calls Ezike 6"2'.

FIBA lists her as 6’0”
https://www.fiba.basketball/en/events/fi...nora-ezike

I see other sites say 6’2” and at least one that says 6’3”.  

I figured FIBA would measure her, but maybe not

6'-2" seems the more accurate. In photos Nora appears to be the same height at Carly Amborn. If we trust Carly is 6'-2" then so is Nora. 

Nora really had a terrific World Cup.  She was #1 for Nigeria in points per game (12.1), rebounds per game (7.0) and efficiency per game (11.6).  Overall she was #21 in pts per game, #9 in reb per game and #30 in eff per game. Considering there were 16 teams in the tournament, that's pretty good. The only ESPNW-ranked US college recruit with better stats than her in all three categories was Sienna Betts.

We know about the three 5-Star McD All-Americans in this class (Hailee Swain, Lara Somfai and Alex Eschmeyer), but Nora's U19 World Cup performance suggests she shouldn't be left out of the conversation of players who could make an immediate impact. And I'm also encouraged by the positive news of how well Carly Amborn has been shooting in the early practices.  This is a special class.  It reminds me a lot of the 2016 Women's Volleyball recruiting class in terms of a deep class with a great mix of talents. I'm not saying this class is going to win us 3 National Championships like that one did, but I expect them to have a significant impact.

[stopandpop]

Anyone catch yesterday's open practice and have any thoughts?  Unfortunately, I was unable to make it, despite my growing enthusiasm about our stellar (pending first impressions) freshman class.

I was there for the open practice.  I love our girls and especially our freshmen class.  I want this team to succeed and I want Kate and her staff to succeed.

Having said that, I was disappointed to see that Stanford will be running the same (left to right/east to west) offense they ran last season; an offense ACC opponents and others (i.e. Ohio State) totally destroy.  This team is a lot more talented and I'm afraid Kate is not going to take advantage of some of their skill sets, not to mention size and length.

As just one example, Hailee Swain is a dynamic 'downhill' player who can break down defenses and score with either hand.  Lateral offenses where players move to perimeter spots, get passes, then rotate the ball back to another perimeter player for a 3-point attempt takes away Hailee's signature moves.  She becomes another perimeter player in the system.

The existing offense removes any option for high post (solid) screens from Stanford's Bigs.  Kennedy and Lara are physically well suited to do this.  Teams that screen Stanford force our defending guards to scramble and oftentimes allow the opponent's guards clear paths to the basket.  Imagine the damage a Hailee Swain or a Chloe Clardy could do with those screens.

On a positive note, Nunu was simply a beast.  No one could stop her going to the rim.  Shay was quick and active.  Carly hit a number of 3 pointers in a row.  Kennedy showed much improvement and mobility.  Lara's footwork and soft touch from distance impressed me.  Even Mary Ashley showed more willingness to look for her shot inside.

The autograph session after the practice was great and fans had a chance to briefly chat with all the players.

Go Card!

[stopandpop]

Anyone catch yesterday's open practice and have any thoughts?  Unfortunately, I was unable to make it, despite my growing enthusiasm about our stellar (pending first impressions) freshman class.

I was there for the open practice.  I love our girls and especially our freshmen class.  I want this team to succeed and I want Kate and her staff to succeed.

Having said that, I was disappointed to see that Stanford will be running the same (left to right/east to west) offense they ran last season; an offense ACC opponents and others (i.e. Ohio State) totally destroy.  This team is a lot more talented and I'm afraid Kate is not going to take advantage of some of their skill sets, not to mention size and length.

As just one example, Hailee Swain is a dynamic 'downhill' player who can break down defenses and score with either hand.  Lateral offenses where players move to perimeter spots, get passes, then rotate the ball back to another perimeter player for a 3-point attempt takes away Hailee's signature moves.  She becomes another perimeter player in the system.

The existing offense removes any option for high post (solid) screens from Stanford's Bigs.  Kennedy and Lara are physically well suited to do this.  Teams that screen Stanford force our defending guards to scramble and oftentimes allow the opponent's guards clear paths to the basket.  Imagine the damage a Hailee Swain or a Chloe Clardy could do with those screens.

On a positive note, Nunu was simply a beast.  No one could stop her going to the rim.  Shay was quick and active.  Carly hit a number of 3 pointers in a row.  Kennedy showed much improvement and mobility.  Lara's footwork and soft touch from distance impressed me.  Even Mary Ashley showed more willingness to look for her shot inside.

The autograph session after the practice was great and fans had a chance to briefly chat with all the players.

Go Card!

[martyup]

I came to the Cardboard because of Stanford Football, a refugee of the caustic ESPN college football comment sections and an Oregon Duck chat site on which I sparred with obnoxious Duck fans.  SUbuddha (where did he go?) turned me on to this board.  This was about 25 years after graduating from Stanford (Class of '83).  At that time, I didn't follow any other Stanford sports.

After reading some threads on here about WBB, I finally watched a Stanford WBB game on TV (2016?).  I hadn't ever watched a full WBB game before that and I left a comment on here that they didn't seem to jump very high and they were pretty slow.  BobK urged me to give it time and keep watching.  Which I did.  

I quickly became a devoted follower of Stanford WBB and I've watched nearly every televised game since 2017.  I have only been able to attend one game in person due to my living in Coeur d'Alene (2022 vs WSU in Pullman).  The Gonzaga games in Spokane were too hard to get tickets to attend.

I can now say that I look forward to WBB season more than any other sport, including football.  If it wasn't for the Cardboard, I doubt I would even be following WBB.  I would especially like to thank BobK for encouraging me to "give it time."

I'm looking forward to watching this fantastic incoming class develop into a NC contender.  And, I look forward to sharing this experience with all of the WBB fans here on the Cardboard.

[martyup]

I came to the Cardboard because of Stanford Football, a refugee of the caustic ESPN college football comment sections and an Oregon Duck chat site on which I sparred with obnoxious Duck fans.  SUbuddha (where did he go?) turned me on to this board.  This was about 25 years after graduating from Stanford (Class of '83).  At that time, I didn't follow any other Stanford sports.

After reading some threads on here about WBB, I finally watched a Stanford WBB game on TV (2016?).  I hadn't ever watched a full WBB game before that and I left a comment on here that they didn't seem to jump very high and they were pretty slow.  BobK urged me to give it time and keep watching.  Which I did.  

I quickly became a devoted follower of Stanford WBB and I've watched nearly every televised game since 2017.  I have only been able to attend one game in person due to my living in Coeur d'Alene (2022 vs WSU in Pullman).  The Gonzaga games in Spokane were too hard to get tickets to attend.

I can now say that I look forward to WBB season more than any other sport, including football.  If it wasn't for the Cardboard, I doubt I would even be following WBB.  I would especially like to thank BobK for encouraging me to "give it time."

I'm looking forward to watching this fantastic incoming class develop into a NC contender.  And, I look forward to sharing this experience with all of the WBB fans here on the Cardboard.

[BobK]

Wow thank ya kindly Marty. Glad you gave it a go. I’m excited for the newbies and improvements from the 10 back

[BobK]

Wow thank ya kindly Marty. Glad you gave it a go. I’m excited for the newbies and improvements from the 10 back

[2006alum]

Anyone catch yesterday's open practice and have any thoughts?  Unfortunately, I was unable to make it, despite my growing enthusiasm about our stellar (pending first impressions) freshman class.

I was there for the open practice.  I love our girls and especially our freshmen class.  I want this team to succeed and I want Kate and her staff to succeed.

Having said that, I was disappointed to see that Stanford will be running the same (left to right/east to west) offense they ran last season; an offense ACC opponents and others (i.e. Ohio State) totally destroy.  This team is a lot more talented and I'm afraid Kate is not going to take advantage of some of their skill sets, not to mention size and length.

As just one example, Hailee Swain is a dynamic 'downhill' player who can break down defenses and score with either hand.  Lateral offenses where players move to perimeter spots, get passes, then rotate the ball back to another perimeter player for a 3-point attempt takes away Hailee's signature moves.  She becomes another perimeter player in the system.

The existing offense removes any option for high post (solid) screens from Stanford's Bigs.  Kennedy and Lara are physically well suited to do this.  Teams that screen Stanford force our defending guards to scramble and oftentimes allow the opponent's guards clear paths to the basket.  Imagine the damage a Hailee Swain or a Chloe Clardy could do with those screens.

On a positive note, Nunu was simply a beast.  No one could stop her going to the rim.  Shay was quick and active.  Carly hit a number of 3 pointers in a row.  Kennedy showed much improvement and mobility.  Lara's footwork and soft touch from distance impressed me.  Even Mary Ashley showed more willingness to look for her shot inside.

The autograph session after the practice was great and fans had a chance to briefly chat with all the players.

Go Card!

Thanks, pop. Great observations. Is there any chance since it's only July that it's too early to assess what offenses Kate and Coaches plan to run once their players settle in? Is it possible that only a few weeks into summer practice they want to get the frosh adjusted to already existing schemes but will fold in more screens and pick and rolls as the team begins to gel? I don't have enough insights about how coaches alter offensive schemes for personnel but I guess I have to think there's still a lot of time between now and November to layer on additional sets, etc.? 

And Marty, what a great comment! My WBB Fandom also took off in the mid 2010s as a result of starting to read the Cardboard and I too now look forward to it more than any other Stanford sport. Just re-upped my season tix, too!

[2006alum]

Anyone catch yesterday's open practice and have any thoughts?  Unfortunately, I was unable to make it, despite my growing enthusiasm about our stellar (pending first impressions) freshman class.

I was there for the open practice.  I love our girls and especially our freshmen class.  I want this team to succeed and I want Kate and her staff to succeed.

Having said that, I was disappointed to see that Stanford will be running the same (left to right/east to west) offense they ran last season; an offense ACC opponents and others (i.e. Ohio State) totally destroy.  This team is a lot more talented and I'm afraid Kate is not going to take advantage of some of their skill sets, not to mention size and length.

As just one example, Hailee Swain is a dynamic 'downhill' player who can break down defenses and score with either hand.  Lateral offenses where players move to perimeter spots, get passes, then rotate the ball back to another perimeter player for a 3-point attempt takes away Hailee's signature moves.  She becomes another perimeter player in the system.

The existing offense removes any option for high post (solid) screens from Stanford's Bigs.  Kennedy and Lara are physically well suited to do this.  Teams that screen Stanford force our defending guards to scramble and oftentimes allow the opponent's guards clear paths to the basket.  Imagine the damage a Hailee Swain or a Chloe Clardy could do with those screens.

On a positive note, Nunu was simply a beast.  No one could stop her going to the rim.  Shay was quick and active.  Carly hit a number of 3 pointers in a row.  Kennedy showed much improvement and mobility.  Lara's footwork and soft touch from distance impressed me.  Even Mary Ashley showed more willingness to look for her shot inside.

The autograph session after the practice was great and fans had a chance to briefly chat with all the players.

Go Card!

Thanks, pop. Great observations. Is there any chance since it's only July that it's too early to assess what offenses Kate and Coaches plan to run once their players settle in? Is it possible that only a few weeks into summer practice they want to get the frosh adjusted to already existing schemes but will fold in more screens and pick and rolls as the team begins to gel? I don't have enough insights about how coaches alter offensive schemes for personnel but I guess I have to think there's still a lot of time between now and November to layer on additional sets, etc.? 

And Marty, what a great comment! My WBB Fandom also took off in the mid 2010s as a result of starting to read the Cardboard and I too now look forward to it more than any other Stanford sport. Just re-upped my season tix, too!

[stopandpop]

Anyone catch yesterday's open practice and have any thoughts?  Unfortunately, I was unable to make it, despite my growing enthusiasm about our stellar (pending first impressions) freshman class.

I was there for the open practice.  I love our girls and especially our freshmen class.  I want this team to succeed and I want Kate and her staff to succeed.

Having said that, I was disappointed to see that Stanford will be running the same (left to right/east to west) offense they ran last season; an offense ACC opponents and others (i.e. Ohio State) totally destroy.  This team is a lot more talented and I'm afraid Kate is not going to take advantage of some of their skill sets, not to mention size and length.

As just one example, Hailee Swain is a dynamic 'downhill' player who can break down defenses and score with either hand.  Lateral offenses where players move to perimeter spots, get passes, then rotate the ball back to another perimeter player for a 3-point attempt takes away Hailee's signature moves.  She becomes another perimeter player in the system.

The existing offense removes any option for high post (solid) screens from Stanford's Bigs.  Kennedy and Lara are physically well suited to do this.  Teams that screen Stanford force our defending guards to scramble and oftentimes allow the opponent's guards clear paths to the basket.  Imagine the damage a Hailee Swain or a Chloe Clardy could do with those screens.

On a positive note, Nunu was simply a beast.  No one could stop her going to the rim.  Shay was quick and active.  Carly hit a number of 3 pointers in a row.  Kennedy showed much improvement and mobility.  Lara's footwork and soft touch from distance impressed me.  Even Mary Ashley showed more willingness to look for her shot inside.

The autograph session after the practice was great and fans had a chance to briefly chat with all the players.

Go Card!

Thanks, pop. Great observations. Is there any chance since it's only July that it's too early to assess what offenses Kate and Coaches plan to run once their players settle in? Is it possible that only a few weeks into summer practice they want to get the frosh adjusted to already existing schemes but will fold in more screens and pick and rolls as the team begins to gel? I don't have enough insights about how coaches alter offensive schemes for personnel but I guess I have to think there's still a lot of time between now and November to layer on additional sets, etc.? 

And Marty, what a great comment! My WBB Fandom also took off in the mid 2010s as a result of starting to read the Cardboard and I too now look forward to it more than any other Stanford sport. Just re-upped my season tix, too!

You may be right.  There's always a chance the offense we eventually see in November could look differently than what I saw in practice and yes, there needs to be an existing foundation the freshmen can run.  I will say that in-between the 5-minute scrimmages, Kate and staff broke the group into teams of 4 and ran set plays without opponents and during several of those 10-15 second rounds, I saw Umeh, Eschmeyer and Somfai getting the ball down low or the 2nd. option of getting the ball and passing out to a perimeter player for a 3-pointer.

Of note- Eschmeyer and Somfai looked very comfortable moving out from the post and consistently hitting 3's.  Somfai hit several mid-range shots on the baseline.

Yes, very early in the calendar, but from what I saw, very encouraging.

[stopandpop]

Anyone catch yesterday's open practice and have any thoughts?  Unfortunately, I was unable to make it, despite my growing enthusiasm about our stellar (pending first impressions) freshman class.

I was there for the open practice.  I love our girls and especially our freshmen class.  I want this team to succeed and I want Kate and her staff to succeed.

Having said that, I was disappointed to see that Stanford will be running the same (left to right/east to west) offense they ran last season; an offense ACC opponents and others (i.e. Ohio State) totally destroy.  This team is a lot more talented and I'm afraid Kate is not going to take advantage of some of their skill sets, not to mention size and length.

As just one example, Hailee Swain is a dynamic 'downhill' player who can break down defenses and score with either hand.  Lateral offenses where players move to perimeter spots, get passes, then rotate the ball back to another perimeter player for a 3-point attempt takes away Hailee's signature moves.  She becomes another perimeter player in the system.

The existing offense removes any option for high post (solid) screens from Stanford's Bigs.  Kennedy and Lara are physically well suited to do this.  Teams that screen Stanford force our defending guards to scramble and oftentimes allow the opponent's guards clear paths to the basket.  Imagine the damage a Hailee Swain or a Chloe Clardy could do with those screens.

On a positive note, Nunu was simply a beast.  No one could stop her going to the rim.  Shay was quick and active.  Carly hit a number of 3 pointers in a row.  Kennedy showed much improvement and mobility.  Lara's footwork and soft touch from distance impressed me.  Even Mary Ashley showed more willingness to look for her shot inside.

The autograph session after the practice was great and fans had a chance to briefly chat with all the players.

Go Card!

Thanks, pop. Great observations. Is there any chance since it's only July that it's too early to assess what offenses Kate and Coaches plan to run once their players settle in? Is it possible that only a few weeks into summer practice they want to get the frosh adjusted to already existing schemes but will fold in more screens and pick and rolls as the team begins to gel? I don't have enough insights about how coaches alter offensive schemes for personnel but I guess I have to think there's still a lot of time between now and November to layer on additional sets, etc.? 

And Marty, what a great comment! My WBB Fandom also took off in the mid 2010s as a result of starting to read the Cardboard and I too now look forward to it more than any other Stanford sport. Just re-upped my season tix, too!

You may be right.  There's always a chance the offense we eventually see in November could look differently than what I saw in practice and yes, there needs to be an existing foundation the freshmen can run.  I will say that in-between the 5-minute scrimmages, Kate and staff broke the group into teams of 4 and ran set plays without opponents and during several of those 10-15 second rounds, I saw Umeh, Eschmeyer and Somfai getting the ball down low or the 2nd. option of getting the ball and passing out to a perimeter player for a 3-pointer.

Of note- Eschmeyer and Somfai looked very comfortable moving out from the post and consistently hitting 3's.  Somfai hit several mid-range shots on the baseline.

Yes, very early in the calendar, but from what I saw, very encouraging.

[BosCard]

For those at the open practice, what position did Agara play?  The 4 like last year or was she used at the 3 with 2 bigs?

[BosCard]

For those at the open practice, what position did Agara play?  The 4 like last year or was she used at the 3 with 2 bigs?