This game looked like a remake of the Maryland game. Minn had 33 points off turnovers, highlighting a current weakness with this squad. We have problems with a tight man-to-man defense, especially when played by a mature, physical squad. Few open looks, and Blethen, with only 5 hard earned shots, needs to be getting double figure shots every game.
Our only player who can occasionally break down their defender is Hyduke. This left a lot instances where our players were confused about what to do with the ball, leading to bad passes with the shot clock running down. On multiple occasions, when our players found an opening, they ended up going to the basket and throwing up wild air balls. Zambrotta, who can break down defenders could be a help, but it doesn't look like she'll be coming back any time soon. Free throw shooting is starting to improve.
Yes, point differential was bad, but our team, is one whose freshmen are its best players and still learning, playing against one of the better teams in the country-- considered Top 25 by many. Interestingly, when we made a 4Q push to get the lead down to 25 pts, Minn re-inserted their starters. MD did this as well-- beginning to wonder what constitutes a "safe" lead.
JMU, another quality team is up next.
