Here is the new blog, covering both UConn men and women basketball teams.
http://www.norwichbulletin.com/huskies_on_the_run_blog
Monday, October 25, 2010
Friday, September 17, 2010
2010-11 Schedule
It's not going to be easy, but the Huskies usually don't care for easy. The schedule features: Baylor, Georgia Tech, LSU, Ohio State, Florida State, Stanford, Duke and Oklahoma. If UConn is to match UCLA's 88-game win streak, it will happen at MSG against Ohio State. To break it, two nights later at Gampel vs. FSU.
NOVEMBER
Thu. 4 FRANKLIN PIERCE (exhib.) Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 7:30 p.m.
Wed. 10 INDIANA UNIVERSITY (Pa.) (exhib.) XL Center, Hartford, Conn. 7 p.m.
Sun. 14 HOLY CROSS Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 2 p.m.
State Farm Tip-Off Classic, XL Center, Hartford, Conn.
Tue. 16 BAYLOR ESPN2 6 p.m.
Sun. 21 at Georgia Tech Alexander Memorial Coliseum, Atlanta, Ga. 2 p.m.
World Vision Challenge, Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn.
Fri. 26 LSU vs. Lehigh 5 p.m.
CONNECTICUT VS. HOWARD 7:30 p.m.
Sat. 27 LSU vs. Howard 5 p.m.
CONNECTICUT VS. LEHIGH 7:30 p.m.
Sun. 28 Lehigh vs. Howard 2 p.m.
CONNECTICUT VS. LSU 4:30 p.m.
DECEMBER
Thu. 2 *at South Florida USF Sun Dome, Tampa, Fla. TBD
Sun. 5 SACRED HEART XL Center, Hartford, Conn. 1 p.m.
Thu. 9 *MARQUETTE Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 7:30 p.m.
Maggie Dixon Classic, Madison Square Garden, New York, N.Y.
Sun. 19 Rutgers vs. Texas A&M 12 p.m.
Connecticut vs. Ohio State 2:30 p.m.
Tue. 21 FLORIDA STATE XL Center, Hartford, Conn. 7 p.m.
Tue. 28 at Pacific Alex G. Spanos Center, Stockton, Calif. 10 p.m.
Thu. 30 at Stanford Maples Pavilion, Palo Alt, Calif. 9 p.m.
JANUARY
Wed. 5 *VILLANOVA Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 7:30 p.m.
Sat. 8 *at Notre Dame Purcell Pavilion, South Bend Ind. 2 p.m.
Wed. 12 *at St. John’s Madison Square Garden, New York, N.Y. 9:30 p.m.
Sat. 15 *LOUISVILLE XL Center, Hartford, Conn. TBD
Mon. 17 at North Carolina Carmichael Auditorium, Chapel Hill, N.C. 7 p.m.
Sat. 22 *PITTSBURGH Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 7:30 p.m.
Wed. 26 *at Rutgers Louis Brown Athletic Center, Piscataway, N.J. TBD
Sat. 29 *at Cincinnati First Third Arena, Cincinnati, Ohio TBD
Mon. 31 DUKE Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 7 p.m.
FEBRUARY
Sat. 5 *DEPAUL Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 2 p.m.
Tue. 8 *at West Virginia West Virginia Coliseum, Morgantown, W. Va. 7 p.m.
Sat. 12 *at Providence Dunkin’ Donuts Center, Providence, R.I. TBD
Mon. 14 OKLAHOMA XL Center, Hartford, Conn. 7 p.m.
Sat. 19 *NOTRE DAME Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. TBD
Tue. 22 *SETON HALL XL Center, Hartford, Conn. 7 p.m.
Sat. 26 *at Georgetown McDonough Arena, Washington, D.C. 3 p.m.
Mon. 28 *SYRACUSE Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 7:30 p.m.
NOVEMBER
Thu. 4 FRANKLIN PIERCE (exhib.) Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 7:30 p.m.
Wed. 10 INDIANA UNIVERSITY (Pa.) (exhib.) XL Center, Hartford, Conn. 7 p.m.
Sun. 14 HOLY CROSS Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 2 p.m.
State Farm Tip-Off Classic, XL Center, Hartford, Conn.
Tue. 16 BAYLOR ESPN2 6 p.m.
Sun. 21 at Georgia Tech Alexander Memorial Coliseum, Atlanta, Ga. 2 p.m.
World Vision Challenge, Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn.
Fri. 26 LSU vs. Lehigh 5 p.m.
CONNECTICUT VS. HOWARD 7:30 p.m.
Sat. 27 LSU vs. Howard 5 p.m.
CONNECTICUT VS. LEHIGH 7:30 p.m.
Sun. 28 Lehigh vs. Howard 2 p.m.
CONNECTICUT VS. LSU 4:30 p.m.
DECEMBER
Thu. 2 *at South Florida USF Sun Dome, Tampa, Fla. TBD
Sun. 5 SACRED HEART XL Center, Hartford, Conn. 1 p.m.
Thu. 9 *MARQUETTE Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 7:30 p.m.
Maggie Dixon Classic, Madison Square Garden, New York, N.Y.
Sun. 19 Rutgers vs. Texas A&M 12 p.m.
Connecticut vs. Ohio State 2:30 p.m.
Tue. 21 FLORIDA STATE XL Center, Hartford, Conn. 7 p.m.
Tue. 28 at Pacific Alex G. Spanos Center, Stockton, Calif. 10 p.m.
Thu. 30 at Stanford Maples Pavilion, Palo Alt, Calif. 9 p.m.
JANUARY
Wed. 5 *VILLANOVA Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 7:30 p.m.
Sat. 8 *at Notre Dame Purcell Pavilion, South Bend Ind. 2 p.m.
Wed. 12 *at St. John’s Madison Square Garden, New York, N.Y. 9:30 p.m.
Sat. 15 *LOUISVILLE XL Center, Hartford, Conn. TBD
Mon. 17 at North Carolina Carmichael Auditorium, Chapel Hill, N.C. 7 p.m.
Sat. 22 *PITTSBURGH Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 7:30 p.m.
Wed. 26 *at Rutgers Louis Brown Athletic Center, Piscataway, N.J. TBD
Sat. 29 *at Cincinnati First Third Arena, Cincinnati, Ohio TBD
Mon. 31 DUKE Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 7 p.m.
FEBRUARY
Sat. 5 *DEPAUL Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 2 p.m.
Tue. 8 *at West Virginia West Virginia Coliseum, Morgantown, W. Va. 7 p.m.
Sat. 12 *at Providence Dunkin’ Donuts Center, Providence, R.I. TBD
Mon. 14 OKLAHOMA XL Center, Hartford, Conn. 7 p.m.
Sat. 19 *NOTRE DAME Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. TBD
Tue. 22 *SETON HALL XL Center, Hartford, Conn. 7 p.m.
Sat. 26 *at Georgetown McDonough Arena, Washington, D.C. 3 p.m.
Mon. 28 *SYRACUSE Gampel Pavilion, Storrs, Conn. 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Quotes from Jacquie
There will be a story online, but this is what didn't get in:
On not serving as a grad assistant with ex-Husky Tonya Cardoza at Temple:
“It would have been great to go down there and get my Masters and work with Tonya, but at the end of the day this came along and this is what I want to do so why not jump right into it. I had to take it.”
On her responsibilities:
“It’s much different from the UConn build where there’s the job that we have, we have Sarah Darras, we have all these positions, but at Fairfield, the whole program literally gets run through me from travel to film exchange to video. It’s pretty crazy.
On landing the Fairfield job:
“I feel extremely fortunate and blessed. So many times I’ve heard, ‘You’re so lucky to get a job right after college.’ I definitely feel very, very lucky. I know people who are struggling to get jobs.”
On her UConn experience:
“I was able to learn from so many different people there and gain so much experience being under that program. Here, I’m taking on so many responsibilities each and every day and literally have this program run through me. I’m excited for it and I’m ready to take on the challenge that I have ahead of me. Hopefully, I can make Coach (Joe) Frager and all the other coaches’ jobs easier.”
On her career and still wanting to coach in the future:
“I’m very fortunate. I’m only 21, I have my whole life ahead of me, I know I’ll have a great career. But this is just great experience coming right out of college. I’m in all the staff meetings, I know what’s going on. ... The players coaches call me Coach Fernandes, and I feel like I am a coach even though I can’t directly say, ‘Do X, Y and Z.’ Coaching is what I want to do but I think this is an unbelievable experience to have. It’s going to be great for whatever university I end up at next.”
On being called "Coach":
“It’s definitely different. I’m sure some of the seniors are 21 and are my age, but it’s great I know what they’re going through. I’ve been through it at the best program at the country. I’ve done everything that they’re doing.”
On not serving as a grad assistant with ex-Husky Tonya Cardoza at Temple:
“It would have been great to go down there and get my Masters and work with Tonya, but at the end of the day this came along and this is what I want to do so why not jump right into it. I had to take it.”
On her responsibilities:
“It’s much different from the UConn build where there’s the job that we have, we have Sarah Darras, we have all these positions, but at Fairfield, the whole program literally gets run through me from travel to film exchange to video. It’s pretty crazy.
On landing the Fairfield job:
“I feel extremely fortunate and blessed. So many times I’ve heard, ‘You’re so lucky to get a job right after college.’ I definitely feel very, very lucky. I know people who are struggling to get jobs.”
On her UConn experience:
“I was able to learn from so many different people there and gain so much experience being under that program. Here, I’m taking on so many responsibilities each and every day and literally have this program run through me. I’m excited for it and I’m ready to take on the challenge that I have ahead of me. Hopefully, I can make Coach (Joe) Frager and all the other coaches’ jobs easier.”
On her career and still wanting to coach in the future:
“I’m very fortunate. I’m only 21, I have my whole life ahead of me, I know I’ll have a great career. But this is just great experience coming right out of college. I’m in all the staff meetings, I know what’s going on. ... The players coaches call me Coach Fernandes, and I feel like I am a coach even though I can’t directly say, ‘Do X, Y and Z.’ Coaching is what I want to do but I think this is an unbelievable experience to have. It’s going to be great for whatever university I end up at next.”
On being called "Coach":
“It’s definitely different. I’m sure some of the seniors are 21 and are my age, but it’s great I know what they’re going through. I’ve been through it at the best program at the country. I’ve done everything that they’re doing.”
Fernandes at Fairfield
former UConn guard Jacquie Fernandes was named Fairfield University's Director of Basketball
Operations this morning. Fernandes will be responsible for team travel and the day-to-day operations of the women's basketball office.
"I am very pleased to add Jacqui to our staff," said coach Joe Frager in a release. "Jacqui has been a winner, not just in college, but throughout her high school career as well. With her enthusiasm and work ethic, she is a welcome addition."
I've placed a call to Jacquie, so I'll let you know what she has to say when she gets back to me.
Operations this morning. Fernandes will be responsible for team travel and the day-to-day operations of the women's basketball office.
"I am very pleased to add Jacqui to our staff," said coach Joe Frager in a release. "Jacqui has been a winner, not just in college, but throughout her high school career as well. With her enthusiasm and work ethic, she is a welcome addition."
I've placed a call to Jacquie, so I'll let you know what she has to say when she gets back to me.
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
UConn, Baylor to meet in Tip-off Classic
This is from Baylor's athletic site:
http://www.baylorbears.com/sports/w-baskbl/spec-rel/090810aaa.html
UConn will open its season and defend its undefeated streak on Nov. 16 at the XL Center against Baylor, in a rematch from the Final Four.
The game will be held Nov. 16 at 6 p.m.
Said Huskies coach Geno Auriemma: "We are very excited to be a part of ESPN's Tip-Off Marathon," Auriemma said. "Baylor is an outstanding team and the ESPN audience, along with the crowd at the XL Center, should be treated to a great game. Once again State Farm has stepped up to help make this possible and I would like to pass along my thanks to them."
http://www.baylorbears.com/sports/w-baskbl/spec-rel/090810aaa.html
UConn will open its season and defend its undefeated streak on Nov. 16 at the XL Center against Baylor, in a rematch from the Final Four.
The game will be held Nov. 16 at 6 p.m.
Said Huskies coach Geno Auriemma: "We are very excited to be a part of ESPN's Tip-Off Marathon," Auriemma said. "Baylor is an outstanding team and the ESPN audience, along with the crowd at the XL Center, should be treated to a great game. Once again State Farm has stepped up to help make this possible and I would like to pass along my thanks to them."
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Not for nothing
But doesn't it make you shake your head when UConn and Tennessee announced they will play in men's basketball?
It tells you how much of what's happened on the women's side really didn't worry the athletic directors and their departments. Then again, the Lady Vols do have essentially their own corner of the universe in Knoxville.
And no, I don't think we are seeing the women coming close to playing. However, Pat Summitt has been awfully lucky (read bad) that her team hasn't played UConn the last three years.
It tells you how much of what's happened on the women's side really didn't worry the athletic directors and their departments. Then again, the Lady Vols do have essentially their own corner of the universe in Knoxville.
And no, I don't think we are seeing the women coming close to playing. However, Pat Summitt has been awfully lucky (read bad) that her team hasn't played UConn the last three years.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Doty done for the year
Junior UConn women’s basketball guard Caroline Doty will miss the entire 2010-11 season after tearing her left Anterior Crucitate Ligament late last month, the university announced Wednesday.
“We are all obviously disappointed for Caroline, but we know that she will work very hard to be ready for next season,” UConn coach Geno Auriemma said in a statement.
There was no word how the Doylestown, Pa., product was injured, but she will undergo surgery in the coming weeks and begin the rehabilitation process. This is the third time Doty sustained this injury.
Doty first tore her left ACL while playing soccer during her senior year in high school. The second instance came just 17 games into her freshman year at UConn.
Although Doty will have two years of eligibility remaining, this latest setback calls into question whether Doty will play again.
Doty started 38 of 39 games last season for UConn, which went undefeated and won the national championship for the second straight season. She averaged 7.35 points per game over her two seasons with the Huskies.
With Doty sidelined, point guard duties will likely fall upon highly regarded freshman Bria Hartley.
Hartley is ranked by ESPN as the fourth-best point guard and 14th overall prospect among incoming freshmen.
Senior Lorin Dixon may also get the chance to start, but she has been highly inconsistent throughout her first three years at UConn.
“We are all obviously disappointed for Caroline, but we know that she will work very hard to be ready for next season,” UConn coach Geno Auriemma said in a statement.
There was no word how the Doylestown, Pa., product was injured, but she will undergo surgery in the coming weeks and begin the rehabilitation process. This is the third time Doty sustained this injury.
Doty first tore her left ACL while playing soccer during her senior year in high school. The second instance came just 17 games into her freshman year at UConn.
Although Doty will have two years of eligibility remaining, this latest setback calls into question whether Doty will play again.
Doty started 38 of 39 games last season for UConn, which went undefeated and won the national championship for the second straight season. She averaged 7.35 points per game over her two seasons with the Huskies.
With Doty sidelined, point guard duties will likely fall upon highly regarded freshman Bria Hartley.
Hartley is ranked by ESPN as the fourth-best point guard and 14th overall prospect among incoming freshmen.
Senior Lorin Dixon may also get the chance to start, but she has been highly inconsistent throughout her first three years at UConn.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
A return to New York
It was announced Wednesday that UConn will participate in the Maggie Dixon Classic on Dec. 19 at Madison Square Garden in New York.
UConn will face Ohio State, which should be a battle of Top 10 teams. The second game will feature Rutgers and Texas A&M.
The Huskies played against Penn State as part of the event in 2008.
UConn will face Ohio State, which should be a battle of Top 10 teams. The second game will feature Rutgers and Texas A&M.
The Huskies played against Penn State as part of the event in 2008.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
UConn flavors Team USA roster against WNBA All-Stars
The 11 members of the United States’ national team that will take on the WNBA All-Stars on July 10 at Mohegan Sun Arena was announced Thursday. The national team will have a decided Connecticut flavor with more than half having ties to UConn.
Led by Huskies coach Geno Auriemma, former Huskies Sue Bird and Swin Cash (Seattle Storm), Tina Charles and Renee Montgomery (Connecticut Sun), Diana Taurasi (Phoenix Mercury) and current Husky Maya Moore will represent their country. Also playing for the national team will be Tamika Catchings (Indiana Fever), Candice Dupree (Phoenix Mercury), Sylvia Fowles (Chicago Sky), Angel McCoughtry (Atlanta Dream) and Cappie Pondexter (New York Liberty).
“This training camp is the first and only opportunity that I’m going to have the chance to be with the majority of the players that were in the last Olympics that were a part of our core group,” Auriemma said in a statement. “So whatever amount of time we have, it’s going to be used in the best way that we can. We’ll get a chance to see how they interact with each other. They’ll get a feel for me, and I’ll get a feel for them and we’ll play the game and go from there.
“I’m looking forward to having an opportunity to coach them and to get a feel for them in game situations,” Auriemma continued. “So, I’m really excited. Some of them I haven’t seen play yet, and I really haven’t had a chance to see some of the guys that I had coached before. I haven’t had a chance to be around them since they graduated, so all-in-all I think the Stars at the Sun game will be great opportunity for me, and it’s a great opportunity for them as well.”
Team USA will be in town from July 7-11, holding a training camp that includes national team members not selected for the game against the WNBA’s finest, and an exhibition against the Australian national team on the final day of its stay in eastern Connecticut. The additional team members are Seimone Augustus and Lindsey Whalen (Minnesota Lynx), Shameka Christon (Chicago Sky), Lindsey Harding (Washington Mystics), Asjha Jones and Kara Lawson (Connecticut Sun).
San Antonio’s Jayne Appel, Ebony Hoffman (Indiana Fever) and Kia Vaughn (New York Liberty) will practice with Team USA.
The team’s July 9 practice at Mohegan Sun Arena will be open to the public at 2:45 p.m.
Led by Huskies coach Geno Auriemma, former Huskies Sue Bird and Swin Cash (Seattle Storm), Tina Charles and Renee Montgomery (Connecticut Sun), Diana Taurasi (Phoenix Mercury) and current Husky Maya Moore will represent their country. Also playing for the national team will be Tamika Catchings (Indiana Fever), Candice Dupree (Phoenix Mercury), Sylvia Fowles (Chicago Sky), Angel McCoughtry (Atlanta Dream) and Cappie Pondexter (New York Liberty).
“This training camp is the first and only opportunity that I’m going to have the chance to be with the majority of the players that were in the last Olympics that were a part of our core group,” Auriemma said in a statement. “So whatever amount of time we have, it’s going to be used in the best way that we can. We’ll get a chance to see how they interact with each other. They’ll get a feel for me, and I’ll get a feel for them and we’ll play the game and go from there.
“I’m looking forward to having an opportunity to coach them and to get a feel for them in game situations,” Auriemma continued. “So, I’m really excited. Some of them I haven’t seen play yet, and I really haven’t had a chance to see some of the guys that I had coached before. I haven’t had a chance to be around them since they graduated, so all-in-all I think the Stars at the Sun game will be great opportunity for me, and it’s a great opportunity for them as well.”
Team USA will be in town from July 7-11, holding a training camp that includes national team members not selected for the game against the WNBA’s finest, and an exhibition against the Australian national team on the final day of its stay in eastern Connecticut. The additional team members are Seimone Augustus and Lindsey Whalen (Minnesota Lynx), Shameka Christon (Chicago Sky), Lindsey Harding (Washington Mystics), Asjha Jones and Kara Lawson (Connecticut Sun).
San Antonio’s Jayne Appel, Ebony Hoffman (Indiana Fever) and Kia Vaughn (New York Liberty) will practice with Team USA.
The team’s July 9 practice at Mohegan Sun Arena will be open to the public at 2:45 p.m.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Moore wins Broderick Cup
Maya Moore wins a share of the Honda-Broderick Award, given to the top female college athlete. She shares the honor with Penn State's Megan Hodge, a volleyball player.
Below is the story from the Associated Press.
LOS ANGELES — Schmoozing with President Barack Obama has become a regular occurrence for Connecticut forward Maya Moore.
Moore and her Huskies teammates met with Obama for a second straight year in May after the team won its second consecutive NCAA championship.
"We haven't lost a game since he came into office," Moore said. "He made sure we remembered that."
Moore reached another milestone Monday when she and Penn State outside hitter Megan Hodge were named winners of the Honda-Broderick Cup.
The two were surprised to learn they both earned the award, which is given to the nation's top female college athlete, during a ceremony at UCLA. It was only the second time the award has been given to two athletes in the same year. Southern California basketball standout Cheryl Miller and Florida swimmer Tracy Caulkins were co-winners in 1984.
"I wasn't really expecting it," Moore said. "You always think there's going to be one winner , but I really think it's more special when you can share it with somebody else and the fact that we both come from team sports, it's an honor."
Moore and Hodge were chosen over a third finalist, Iowa State track and field star Lisa Koll.
Moore, a three-time AP All-American was named the Final Four's most outstanding player. As a junior, she averaged 18.9 points per game and 8.9 rebounds and finished last season with 736 points, the second most in school history for a single season.
Moore's efforts helped the Huskies to an unprecedented 78 straight victories over two seasons. Named the Big East scholar athlete of the year, Moore was a Wooden Award finalist and had a 3.85 GPA.
She is the third UConn basketball player to receive the Honda-Broderick Cup, following in the footsteps of Rebecca Lobo (1995) and Jennifer Rizzotti (1996).
In four years at Penn State, Hodge amassed a 142-5 record and finished her career with 2,142 kills to become only the second player in school history with more than 2,000.
She guided the Nittany Lions to their third straight NCAA title in 2009 and second straight undefeated season. Hodge led the Big Ten and was eighth in the nation with an average of 4.67 kills per set and was second on the team with 295 digs (2.46 per set). She was named the 2009 Big Ten and Division I national player of the year.
Hodge is the first player from Penn State to earn the award. She was awed when watching a video montage that showed each previous winner since the award was first presented in 1977.
"Just to win the award is an honor and was very unexpected," Hodge said. "It means a lot to my university and family.
"This ranks right up there. I just think it's awesome for me to be grouped in that category (with the other winners) now."
Louisiana Tech track star Antoinette Cobb received the Honda Inspiration Award. After missing her sophomore season with colon cancer, Cobb returned to win four WAC titles her junior and senior years and finished her career as the seventh-best 100-meter hurdler in the country.
Concordia University setter Maggie McNamara was named the Division II athlete of the year and Bethel University track and field standout Marie Bonner was named the Division III athlete of the year.
Hodge is representing the U.S. national team in the Pan-American Cup and will play professionally in Italy this winter.
Moore will be a senior at UConn in the fall and looks forward to mentoring the Huskies' five incoming freshman.
"I'm just trying to make sure they're ready for the first day of practice right now," Moore said with a laugh. "I'm at a point in my career where I feel ready to be a senior, ready to be challenged in new way, so I'm excited."
Despite the inexperience of the team, Moore didn't rule out the possibility of a three-peat.
"Anything is possible," Moore said. "We're trying to see President Obama every year. That's the goal."
Below is the story from the Associated Press.
LOS ANGELES — Schmoozing with President Barack Obama has become a regular occurrence for Connecticut forward Maya Moore.
Moore and her Huskies teammates met with Obama for a second straight year in May after the team won its second consecutive NCAA championship.
"We haven't lost a game since he came into office," Moore said. "He made sure we remembered that."
Moore reached another milestone Monday when she and Penn State outside hitter Megan Hodge were named winners of the Honda-Broderick Cup.
The two were surprised to learn they both earned the award, which is given to the nation's top female college athlete, during a ceremony at UCLA. It was only the second time the award has been given to two athletes in the same year. Southern California basketball standout Cheryl Miller and Florida swimmer Tracy Caulkins were co-winners in 1984.
"I wasn't really expecting it," Moore said. "You always think there's going to be one winner , but I really think it's more special when you can share it with somebody else and the fact that we both come from team sports, it's an honor."
Moore and Hodge were chosen over a third finalist, Iowa State track and field star Lisa Koll.
Moore, a three-time AP All-American was named the Final Four's most outstanding player. As a junior, she averaged 18.9 points per game and 8.9 rebounds and finished last season with 736 points, the second most in school history for a single season.
Moore's efforts helped the Huskies to an unprecedented 78 straight victories over two seasons. Named the Big East scholar athlete of the year, Moore was a Wooden Award finalist and had a 3.85 GPA.
She is the third UConn basketball player to receive the Honda-Broderick Cup, following in the footsteps of Rebecca Lobo (1995) and Jennifer Rizzotti (1996).
In four years at Penn State, Hodge amassed a 142-5 record and finished her career with 2,142 kills to become only the second player in school history with more than 2,000.
She guided the Nittany Lions to their third straight NCAA title in 2009 and second straight undefeated season. Hodge led the Big Ten and was eighth in the nation with an average of 4.67 kills per set and was second on the team with 295 digs (2.46 per set). She was named the 2009 Big Ten and Division I national player of the year.
Hodge is the first player from Penn State to earn the award. She was awed when watching a video montage that showed each previous winner since the award was first presented in 1977.
"Just to win the award is an honor and was very unexpected," Hodge said. "It means a lot to my university and family.
"This ranks right up there. I just think it's awesome for me to be grouped in that category (with the other winners) now."
Louisiana Tech track star Antoinette Cobb received the Honda Inspiration Award. After missing her sophomore season with colon cancer, Cobb returned to win four WAC titles her junior and senior years and finished her career as the seventh-best 100-meter hurdler in the country.
Concordia University setter Maggie McNamara was named the Division II athlete of the year and Bethel University track and field standout Marie Bonner was named the Division III athlete of the year.
Hodge is representing the U.S. national team in the Pan-American Cup and will play professionally in Italy this winter.
Moore will be a senior at UConn in the fall and looks forward to mentoring the Huskies' five incoming freshman.
"I'm just trying to make sure they're ready for the first day of practice right now," Moore said with a laugh. "I'm at a point in my career where I feel ready to be a senior, ready to be challenged in new way, so I'm excited."
Despite the inexperience of the team, Moore didn't rule out the possibility of a three-peat.
"Anything is possible," Moore said. "We're trying to see President Obama every year. That's the goal."
Monday, May 17, 2010
Back at the White House
The Huskies made their second visit in as many years to the White House on Monday. Once again, President Obama was given a jersey and an autographed ball. He said that UConn was "by far" the best team of the past year in any sport, which is quite the praise.
No word if there was a rematch in P.I.G between President Obama and Maya Moore.
No word if there was a rematch in P.I.G between President Obama and Maya Moore.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Fernandes heading to Temple
According to Rich Elliott of the Connecticut Post, Stonington High School and recent UConn grad Jacquie Fernandes will join ex Huskies assistant Tonya Cardoza's staff at Temple.
I'll hopefully have more for you later.
I'll hopefully have more for you later.
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Early voting
My all-tournament team:
Repella, West Virginia
Rushdan, Rutgers
Diggins, Notre Dame
Charles, UConn
Moore, UConn
Most outstanding player:
Greene, UConn
Repella, West Virginia
Rushdan, Rutgers
Diggins, Notre Dame
Charles, UConn
Moore, UConn
Most outstanding player:
Greene, UConn
Noise
For the first time this season, the crowd senses the Huskies need them. The response: UConn builds a five-point lead back up to 13.
Husky slumber
Liz Repella knocked down a 3-pointer with 15:57 left to cut UConn's lead to six, 33-27. The Huskies have looked asleep at the wheel since late in the first half.
Halftime
The game has slowed down to a pace beneficial to West Virginia. The Huskies still hold the lead, but Maya Moore and Tina Charles have been awful. Combined, they are 3-for-17 from the floor.
Fortunate
UConn is lucky that its poor shooting and decision making hasn't hurt it yet. That's because West Virginia has done nothing right.
Finals
There is no suspense here, no drama and it feels like a regular season game. That's what happens when you set a record the night before.
At least there are a few more fans.
At least there are a few more fans.
Doty cleared
UConn sophomore guard Caroline Doty has been cleared to participate in tonight's Big East Tournament championship game at the XL Center.
Doty was hit in the back of the neck by an elbow during Monday's semifinal victory over Notre Dame. She left the game after laying on the court for several minutes.
Doty participated in the Huskies' morning shoot around.
Doty was hit in the back of the neck by an elbow during Monday's semifinal victory over Notre Dame. She left the game after laying on the court for several minutes.
Doty participated in the Huskies' morning shoot around.
Monday, March 08, 2010
Here come the Huskies
UConn has built up an 11-point lead, 44-33, with 11:10 left. Nothing is working for Notre Dame.
Quick hit
Very quickly, UConn has taken an eight-point lead. Maya Moore capped it with a big 3-pointer. Huskies lead, 32-24, with 17:51 to play.
Twenty minutes to go
What a half it has been. Top-ranked UConn was held to its fewest points in the first half since the 2007 Fresno (Calif.) Regional against LSU, but leads Notre Dame, 25-22, in the semifinals of the Big East Tournament on Monday at the XL Center.
Tina Charles has been shutdown for the most part on the offensive end, and Notre Dame has all of the momentum. Keep in mind the two earlier meetings were blowouts.
Tina Charles has been shutdown for the most part on the offensive end, and Notre Dame has all of the momentum. Keep in mind the two earlier meetings were blowouts.
On the charge?
No coincidence that the Irish call a timeout after Tina Charles scores back-to-back baskets. It's 25020 UConn with 1:21 left in the half.
Surprise, surprise
Who would have thought this would be a one-point game inside of three minutes left in the half?
Not me.
The key here has been the excellent defensive job done on Tina Charles. Unless UConn can find a way to get her the ball -- and for her to finish -- Notre Dame may snap the 70-game win streak.
Not me.
The key here has been the excellent defensive job done on Tina Charles. Unless UConn can find a way to get her the ball -- and for her to finish -- Notre Dame may snap the 70-game win streak.
First timeout
Notre Dame has to be happy to still be in the game. UConn leads, 9-8, with 14:35 left in the first half.
Tina Charles is being swarmed by four defenders whenever she touches the ball. The Irish are giving up the 3-pointer, daring UConn to take the shot.
Tina Charles is being swarmed by four defenders whenever she touches the ball. The Irish are giving up the 3-pointer, daring UConn to take the shot.
History, either way, and a cautionary tale
Fifty-one minutes. That's how long we must wait for the start of the Big East Tournament semifinal between UConn and Notre Dame. It's bigger than the title game because a UConn win means this team stands alone with a new record 71-game consecutive win streak. A Notre Dame win is historic because it snaps the Huskies' record-tying streak.
Based on how the Irish played the first two times out against the Huskies I would call this game as well as the tournament's two remaining games anticlimactic.
Then again, recall in 2006-07 when UConn won at Rutgers, 70-44, to end the season but lost the tournament, 55-47.
It can happen. Just not likely. This Huskies team is better than its predecessor and Notre Dame isn't as good as Rutgers was then.
Based on how the Irish played the first two times out against the Huskies I would call this game as well as the tournament's two remaining games anticlimactic.
Then again, recall in 2006-07 when UConn won at Rutgers, 70-44, to end the season but lost the tournament, 55-47.
It can happen. Just not likely. This Huskies team is better than its predecessor and Notre Dame isn't as good as Rutgers was then.
Sunday, March 07, 2010
Boooo!
Twice in a row Maya Moore had an uncontested path to the basket and could have dunked. She didn't.
WHAT?
Hillsman to Troya Berry after she tackled Maya Moore: "You can't do that; They can, you can't."
Any question who is the best player in the nation?
Tina Charles has 16 points with 2:44 left and just blocked a shot from behind.
Blind
Referee Bonita Spence just blew an obvious call. A missed UConn shot comes down untouched on the baseline and called UConn ball. The play happened two feet from her and no one was nearby.
Good job.
Good job.
This is what just happened
A Syracuse player walked into a trap set by Tina Charles and Maya Moore. This is that player's inner thoughts:
"I can go into this trap. It's only the two best players in the country."
"I can come out it."
She's right. But she didn't have the ball.
"I can go into this trap. It's only the two best players in the country."
"I can come out it."
She's right. But she didn't have the ball.
Thanks for playing
Syracuse is down 13, 15-2, with 14:23 left in the half. Coach Quentin Hillsman has used five reserves already and Otto the Orange is about to check in.
And the loser for winning is...
Notre Dame. The Irish survive the Red Storm and will play the UConn-Syracuse winner. Not a good prize. Unless you face the Orange.
Late start
St. John's and Notre Dame are going a little longer than expected. This is fine, but there's a sense of "get over with it already" at the XL Center. There's only one show here today and the other three games are merely distractions.
Closing in on 70
UConn and Syracuse are set to tip off in about two hours, which puts the Huskies about 40 minutes from matching its 70-game win streak that went from 2001-03.
It's beyond logic to suggest Syracuse could win this game. A lot would have to happen. But I think there are couple things to keep an eye out for.
Last year, Syracuse said they had the defense to stop Maya Moore. They stopped her at 40 points. Then Moore puts up 38 and 20 two weeks ago. Clearly, she treats orange like a bull does red. Maybe Tennessee knew something when it chose to discontinue the series with UConn. I'm just sayin'.
That first game had some drama -- very physical play that UConn took exception to and the Nicole Michael-Geno Auriemma tripgate, not to mention the Orange's contention that the Huskies ran up the score. From my perspective, they did, to make a point about the trash talking and physical play.
This season's meeting saw some more fireworks. Syracuse said it hadn't forgotten what happened the previous year, but downed down the rhetoric. But in the game, Erica Morrow of Syracuse was ejected for throwing a punch at UConn's Tiffany Hayes.
So...what should you expect? I'm looking for another very physical game -- maybe the most physical game between these teams. I can't imagine the Orange want to be No. 70, so they could be scrappier than usual. My gut tells me there's going to be a blow up of some sort.
Also, Maya Moore scores 39 points. If she doesn't it's because Auriemma takes her out of the game early to rest her for tomorrow's semifinal against Notre Dame or St. John's.
It's beyond logic to suggest Syracuse could win this game. A lot would have to happen. But I think there are couple things to keep an eye out for.
Last year, Syracuse said they had the defense to stop Maya Moore. They stopped her at 40 points. Then Moore puts up 38 and 20 two weeks ago. Clearly, she treats orange like a bull does red. Maybe Tennessee knew something when it chose to discontinue the series with UConn. I'm just sayin'.
That first game had some drama -- very physical play that UConn took exception to and the Nicole Michael-Geno Auriemma tripgate, not to mention the Orange's contention that the Huskies ran up the score. From my perspective, they did, to make a point about the trash talking and physical play.
This season's meeting saw some more fireworks. Syracuse said it hadn't forgotten what happened the previous year, but downed down the rhetoric. But in the game, Erica Morrow of Syracuse was ejected for throwing a punch at UConn's Tiffany Hayes.
So...what should you expect? I'm looking for another very physical game -- maybe the most physical game between these teams. I can't imagine the Orange want to be No. 70, so they could be scrappier than usual. My gut tells me there's going to be a blow up of some sort.
Also, Maya Moore scores 39 points. If she doesn't it's because Auriemma takes her out of the game early to rest her for tomorrow's semifinal against Notre Dame or St. John's.
Friday, March 05, 2010
Charles in charge as Moore honors roll in for Huskies
Tina Charles, having one of the most memorable seasons by a Husky, was named the Big East's Player of the Year. You'd imagine this is a precursor to Charles winning the Naismith Award for National Player of the Year, but you never know. Two years ago, it was expected that Candace Parker would win the Naismith only to have Candice Wiggins surprise just about everyone by taking home the honor.
Still it's tough to imagine Charles not winning it, especially since her main competition is teammate Maya Moore.
Just to chew on: What does it tell you about Charles' season when she beats out Moore, who is considered the best player in the draft and probably the best player in the world before too long?
Moore didn't come away empty handed Friday on the second day of conference awards. After being named an Academic All-American last month, Moore was named the Big East's Scholar-Athlete. She is the fifth Husky to be so honored, joining Leigh Curl, Rebecca Lobo (twice) and Jennifer Rizzotti.
Lastly, Geno Auriemma shared Coach of the Year honors with West Virginia's Mike Carey. I like Carey here, but I also like Georgetown's Terry Flournoy-Williams, who took a team that has been a non-factor and led it to the Top 25. Auriemma would have had my third vote.
Also, just a side note...check back here often Sunday through Tuesday as the Huskies aim for the Big East Tournament title and try to eclipse the record 70-game win streak.
Still it's tough to imagine Charles not winning it, especially since her main competition is teammate Maya Moore.
Just to chew on: What does it tell you about Charles' season when she beats out Moore, who is considered the best player in the draft and probably the best player in the world before too long?
Moore didn't come away empty handed Friday on the second day of conference awards. After being named an Academic All-American last month, Moore was named the Big East's Scholar-Athlete. She is the fifth Husky to be so honored, joining Leigh Curl, Rebecca Lobo (twice) and Jennifer Rizzotti.
Lastly, Geno Auriemma shared Coach of the Year honors with West Virginia's Mike Carey. I like Carey here, but I also like Georgetown's Terry Flournoy-Williams, who took a team that has been a non-factor and led it to the Top 25. Auriemma would have had my third vote.
Also, just a side note...check back here often Sunday through Tuesday as the Huskies aim for the Big East Tournament title and try to eclipse the record 70-game win streak.
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Huskies honored
Tina Charles, Maya Moore and Kalana Greene were named to the All-Big East First Team on Thursday. Charles and Moore were both unanimous selections.
Tiffany Hayes was a second-team pick and Kelly Faris made the all-freshmen team.
Also, the Huskies will be on the cover of Sports Illustrated next week and were interviewed by the CBS Evening News today after practice.
Tiffany Hayes was a second-team pick and Kelly Faris made the all-freshmen team.
Also, the Huskies will be on the cover of Sports Illustrated next week and were interviewed by the CBS Evening News today after practice.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Broadcast date
Here is the TV schedule for the ESPNU series on UConn's women's basketball team:
2/26 - 3:30pm & 11:30pm
3/5 - 3:30pm & 11:30pm
3/19 - 4:30pm & 11:30pm
4/2 - 6:00pm & 11:30pm
2/26 - 3:30pm & 11:30pm
3/5 - 3:30pm & 11:30pm
3/19 - 4:30pm & 11:30pm
4/2 - 6:00pm & 11:30pm
Thursday, February 11, 2010
On the tube
Been watching a TON of women's college basketball the last two days:
USF-Marquette
Syracuse-Villanova
UConn-DePaul
USC-Stanford
TCU-Utah
There is some good ball being played outside of Connecticut.
But worth noting that at the end of the USC-Stanford game, the play-by-play announcer asked Lisa Leslie, the color analyst, if the Cardinal have closed the gap on the Huskies. Leslie smiled then laughed and said she doesn't see anyone beating UConn.
USF-Marquette
Syracuse-Villanova
UConn-DePaul
USC-Stanford
TCU-Utah
There is some good ball being played outside of Connecticut.
But worth noting that at the end of the USC-Stanford game, the play-by-play announcer asked Lisa Leslie, the color analyst, if the Cardinal have closed the gap on the Huskies. Leslie smiled then laughed and said she doesn't see anyone beating UConn.
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Recruits honored
Bria Hartley and Samarie Walker, both of whom are part of UConn's recruiting class arriving in the fall, will play in the WBCA All-America game this year, it was announced Tuesday.
On a side note: How sad is it watching the struggles of Rutgers? Coach C. Vivian Stringer was suspended one game today for using the team manager as a practice player when the manager was not an eligible student-athlete.
Also...congrats to Villanova, which won its first conference game tonight beating Syracuse.
On a side note: How sad is it watching the struggles of Rutgers? Coach C. Vivian Stringer was suspended one game today for using the team manager as a practice player when the manager was not an eligible student-athlete.
Also...congrats to Villanova, which won its first conference game tonight beating Syracuse.
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
It fell
the other shoe, that is. A 22-3 run by the Huskies has sealed the win. 58-32 with 11:30 to go.
Kelly the magnificent
Kelly Faris stole the inbound pass, layed it in and drew the foul. The Huskies may have just gotten the spark they needed -- from a freshmen. 40-29 UConn with 5:54 to play.
Slowly slaughtering
It's 15-7 with 10:56 left. You know what's going to happen -- some sort of 70-something to 40-something game. It's on the way.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Figures
Just as I said the style of play would be different, both teams are shooting worse than 30 percent. It isn't defense, folks, it's just bad shooting.
Not what it used to be
UConn and Rutgers, Rutgers and UConn. However you want to look at this one-time rivalry, it simply isn't the same as it used to be. No longer can Rutgers' defense slow down the Huskies. No more can the Huskies get dragged down into the dredges of basketball.
And no longer does Rutgers have the star power it once did.
Folks, this is going to be ugly. I kinda miss the heated matchups, tension and all.
And no longer does Rutgers have the star power it once did.
Folks, this is going to be ugly. I kinda miss the heated matchups, tension and all.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Surprised
I arrived at Gampel Pavilion by 7 a.m. and there were a few hundred people already in line to attend ESPN's College Gameday live from UConn this morning.
More as the event draws near...
More as the event draws near...
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