Tonight, the UCONN Lady Huskies open up their season against the Richmond Spiders of the Atlantic 10 Conference. This is the opening game for both teams. The Lady Huskies will play Colgate on Thursday before embarking on a 7 day 6 night trip to Italy.
As the season goes on, I hope to provide my thoughts and opinions on the games as well as a preview of the team. You can read more about the team after the jump.
Ketia Swanier: Ketia is expected to back up Renee Montgomery at the point guard position. Brings excellent speed off the bench and she has improved her shooting range.
Charde Houston: Charde has been one of the most inconsistent players for the Huskies the past two seasons. Has shown flashes of brilliance at times but unable to put it together back to back times.
Mel Thomas: Mel is the leading returning scorer for the Lady Huskies and is also one of the captains for this season. She brings an excellent perimeter game to the table. Mel is one of the hardest workers on the team, even beating all the coaches to the gym during the offseason. This hardwork along with improved post play for the Huskies could allow Mel to become one of the best shooters in the Big East and nationally this season. Mel was also the winner of the hottest Lady Husky poll held here at Random Thoughts.
Brittany Hunter: Hunter’s season this year will unfortunately be determined on how her knee holds up. She reinjured her surgically repaired knee during the preseason and has been unable to practice at times. If healthy, she brings a tremendous defensive presence and also can light up teams from the inside with her size and strength.
Tahirah Williams: A solid player last season for the Huskies, Williams will provide depth for the team at the small forward and shooting guard spots. She provides Coach Auriemma with another solid defensive option off the bench.
Renee Montgomery: Renee is the other captain of the Lady Huskies. She was named Big East Rookie of the Year last season after a stellar season. Led the team in assists and tied the record for assists in a season. She will be counted on to lead the Huskies. Could also see time at shooting guard when Swanier joins her on the court. She could be asked to hit some big shots for the Huskies this season.
Kalana Greene: Greene is expected to start on the wing for the Huskies and provide much needed spark on the offensive and defensive end. She has good range on her jump shot and can score from almost anywhere on the court.
Cassie Kerns: Cassie has good range for her height and should see an increased role for the Huskies this season. Can also play the wing if needed.
Jacquie Fernandes: Should assume the role of former UCONN player Stacy Marron but with her excellent work ethic could steal minutes away from people.
Meghan Gardler: Gardler will also provide depth at guard for the Huskies. She has the ability to score anywhere on the court.
Kristin Phillips: Phillips is the tallest player on the team at 6’5″ She will provide depth at center for the Lady Huskies this season. Coming off a foot injury that slowed her down in the preseason.
Tina Charles: Last year’s high school player of the year, she will provide the Huskies with some height at the center position as well. She will probably step in and start for the Huskies. An excellent rebounder, she can also score from anywhere in the paint.
Kaili McLaren: McLaren will provide depth at the forward positions. Has excellent range and can play inside or outside.
