Some instances in life just puzzle you.
And there are those that can’t be explained.
That’s how I’m feeling about the GCSU women’s basketball team.
Being around this great group of girls this whole year and seeing all the ups and downs, one thing remains true: we still have no idea what team will show up to the hardwood on a particular day.
Specifically, there are two types of teams we can expect to play, according to head coach John Carrick: the one with energy, or, the one lacking enthusiasm.
Obviously the results are rewarding for the team that shows up with desire. And the results are dismal for the team that shows up with no spunk.
The latter of the previous statement is true for the last time out at Georgia Southwestern for the Bobcats (17-7, 10-4 Peach Belt Conference-west), falling 73-61.
Another poor shooting performance doomed GCSU. The Bobcats show just 26.7 percent from the field and 6-of-27 from beyond the arc, for 22.2 percent from three. Combine a low shooting performance with being outrebounded 51-33, the end result was sullen.
What’s odd about this team from what I have seen, when things start to bounce in the opponents favor, GCSU tends to surrender their effort.
I’m here to tell you that can not happen Saturday against Columbus State (15-9, 9-5 PBC-west) at home.
The Bobcats defeated the Cougars earlier this year 53-45 on the road at the Lumpkin Center. Georgia College was led by the 15 points of junior guard Chimere Jordan, along with an Antoinette Reames double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds. Senior guard Candice Clark also dropped in 10. GCSU was successful defensively in forcing the Cougars into 22 turnovers.
Specifically, Georgia College was able to limit Columbus’ senior center Phebe Smith (18 points, 12 rebounds per game). Smith finished the game with seven points and nine rebounds, well below her season average. The Bobcats also forced the Cougars into poor shot selection, as Columbus State shot just 31.5 percent for the game, and 4-of-19 from three-point range, at 21.1 percent.
Now, it’s time for round two. Since these two teams last met back on Jan. 30, the Cougars have gone 6-2. GCSU has recorded a 6-3 mark.
Under Columbus’ record lies a 9-2 mark away from Columbus. Quite impressive, if you ask me!
So, what are the keys this go-around?
Glad you inquired!
1) Energy. As I mentioned in the last women’s blog, the team that shows up with tenacity, vigor, poise, purpose and takes pride in the game of basketball is more time than not successful.
2) Georgia College must limit Smith in her touches and second chance opportunities. The brother of Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith is first in the conference in offensive rebounds (5.38). The Bobcats can’t allow Smith to gain position and get easy stick-backs. Also, Bobcat forward Reames and junior Tammeisha Law can not run into foul trouble.
3) Let’s hope being at home will cause Georgia College to shoot the pumpkin better. Last time out at 26.7 just won’t cut it. More importantly, the shot selection must be better for the Bobcats. GCSU has to run the offensive sets in a thorough manner and not settle for long jumpers.
4) Along with Smith, the Cougars have a lethal guard front. Six guards average over six points per game. It will be imperative to limit the dribble penetration the Cougars will present. Some of the main guards to keep your eye on:
a. Senior Monique Jefferson (8.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, 1.1 assist)
b. Junior Nakita Holt (6.2 points, 2.4 rebounds, 2.9 assists)
c. Senior Turelle Jones (8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.1 assist)
As you can see, GCSU’s perimeter defense must be on its toes the whole game.
5) Rebounding. Columbus is third in the conference in lassoing the ball at 43.8 times per game. The Bobcats are at 39.6 boards. Boxing out is crucial.
It’s Homecoming at GCSU this weekend. The time is always special, as former alumni are in town to visit and pay homage to our great university.
A big crowd will be on hand for the women’s game. That should help boost the morale of the ladies.
And hopefully with the crowd support, some mental focus, and enthusiasm, the Bobcats can break this one game slide and get back in the win column.
We’ll find out at 1:25e on Peach Belt TV (www.pennatlantic.com – free telecast)!
Talk to you on Homecoming!
No comments:
Post a Comment