I'm just really impressed with the growth of our team ... The toughness that seems to be developing. The last two games down the stretch is when we've been our best. |
I'm proud of this team who, I think, early in the season, had every right to question whether or not we could finish in the top four of the conference. They set their minds to it, even as a young team, and said 'we're going to do what it takes in order to gel into a team that has strong chemistry and a team that has a solid worth ethic and a team that defends. And boy, they did that tonight. |
In the games we've lost lately, foul trouble has been our problem. |
In the stages of growing and developing that teamwork and trust for each other on the defensive end of the floor, you have to help them believe that you're going to get there. It's not just the (wins). They can see the results in different possessions. And as they gain confidence possession by possession, they see themselves beating good teams. |
Individually, none of them could have done it. But collectively they've been fabulous. They want to leave a legacy and that's what makes them special. |
It feels good to be at home because it's so rare. |
It is interesting having two weeks off in one month, especially a month where we've had very few home games. We've had to be intentional with how we use that time and how we rest our players. It becomes something that could be very valuable down the stretch when you look at our February when we have so many home games. Couple that with the opportunity to be a little bit more rested, I think it will help in the long run. |
It is so important for our program to develop awareness that there is life outside of basketball. We want to continue to connect with young people and others in need. |
It was a heartbreaker. I thought we had a good look (on Neely's shot). I thought my team stepped up, and I am looking forward to moving on into the NCAA tournament. |
It's all about the game. Game, game, game. They know the big-picture stuff. ... I don't think I've had a team as determined to move forward as this one. |
It's going to be something she has to fight through. |
It's really going to be about getting to know each other. Initially, it has to be off the court. The way that our team was so successful last year was that they played hard for each other. We want to create that dynamic where you know and care about one another off the court. |
Monday will be a big, big game for us but we are going to continue to take it one game at a time and stay with the routine that we know and trust right now. |
My opening statement is, Candice Wiggins. |
Not only can she penetrate and score around the basket, but she can shoot the deep three. There are not a lot of players out there who have both elements like that. We've really got to find her (tonight). |