Lady Danes-Next Season

[Dane Pound]

Would have been a tough game to win last night even with Ayers. Sounded like the Danes were overwhelmed by Maine's defense. They strung a couple of stops together in the second half but couldn't score themselves although for a while it didn't look like Schumaker could miss from outside.

Nice quote by Maine's Heather Ernst

"I personally think Danielle Hutcheson is the best post player in our conference," Ernest said. "She's extremely physical and she can finish around the basket. Our goal was to be really physical back with her and double-team her whenever she touched the ball."

This team is going to miss Sweetland next year especially early in the season. Returning four starters and finishing fourth this year I don't think the Lady Danes are going to be able to sneak up on anyone next year. Point Guard is the only question mark. James is certainly quicker than Sweetland but she hasn't show she can shoot. Hopefully she improves that part of her game. Otherwise I'd give the incoming freshman a chance to win the job with a strong showing. I had some hope Schumaker could develop into a PG but I don't think she's quick enough.

If Clark can get a little stronger and develop her touch around the hoop she has a Mookie-like game with more shot-blocking. Majors gave good minutes during the Hartford game and is strong underneath. Hopefully the 6-4 Peterson kid coming in is good enough to challenge for minutes next year. As out-of-control as Stacy Johnson was early in the year hopefully she can mature in a defensive specialist and get some time next year.

Bright future for both the men's and the women's team next year. I don't think it's unrealistic to expect them both to finish in the top half of the conference. I can't wait!

[UAalum72]

Ernest was draped all over Hutch all night, but unlike the Hartford game (47 total fouls for UA and UH) the refs let them play (24 for UA and UM). Ernest had only 1 foul all game, with less than 10 min. to go.

 

Gail Danson told me that Ayers was feeling better, but I guess not much, she still only played 11 min.

 

Learn again had a good night

 

Maine just better shooting, stronger and a little quicker inside.