RebKell's Junkie Boards

[Richyyy]

[NYL_WNBA_FAN]

Courtney Williams is clearly and up-and-comer and has obviously helped CT's winning streak. I watched a little of CT during the losing streak but a lot more during the winning streak. What I love about Williams is how quickly and efficiently she can create her shots. It allows both Thomases the ability to be playmakers, since they're the two primary players who can create for others.

So, regarding Bentley, a player I like, I wonder if she dominates the ball a little too often for the other playmakers to do their thing. I don't think Williams will continue to shoot upwards of 50% either, but even if she doesn't, I'd be asking whether Williams' presence is simply better for team chemistry on CT. While it's trended that way so far, I don't love making judgments based on 5-game samples either. Another factor in what to do with Bentley is that Banham is improving fast. Good to see that she is showing some of that offensive game that she showed in college. Once you see the mid-range game in a player, that usually means that player is trending upward fast.

If CT is giving Bentley away cheap, I know I'd take her on NY. I think her game meshes well with the system because even though she's short, she doesn't shy away from contact.

Looking at the numbers, CT has a point differential of nearly +6!!!! Even though they're 5-5, that's a point differential that's more worthy of an 8-2 team. They're not just beating teams, but they're dominant offensively and in most games defensively too. Another great game plan by Miller last night to limit Fowles' touches, especially in the Lynx high-low sets. It opened up Moore for more touches, but let's be real. You can't stop everyone, so limiting the player shooting 66% was the right move. I was critical of him last year, but give Miller credit as well as the organization for sticking with him. They were ridiculously well-prepared for NY and gave the Libs a beating, physically and on the scoreboard. They were very well-prepared last night as well. The acquisitions of Jones and Williams look great.

I know on the Sun facebook, people were destroying them during their poor start. Nobody could have predicted the run they've had of late to this degree. But it's amazing what time can do, huh?

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The poster formerly known as LibWNBAFan.

[Richyyy]

[NYL_WNBA_FAN]

That's a very good point. Thomas has also used her physical strength admirably around the rim in those situations once her quickness has enabled her to gain some space. While it's unquestionable that the lineup change has worked to Thomas' advantage, I'd wonder if she can sustain what she is doing from a physical standpoint. Teams have not been able to exploit CT in the paint during this stretch. Will that hold up over the course of the season? It's an interesting question. But to this point, she's done well not only on the offensive side, but her defense has been terrific as well. I don't think her skill set has changed much, but her mentality and/or physical aptitude certainly have.

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The poster formerly known as LibWNBAFan.

[root_thing]

The impressive thing about CT is their passing and decision-making. You don't see that from a lot of teams, much less a young one. And they were so composed. Every time MN made a mini-run to start pulling away, the Sun responded. That has to be the product of good coaching. Miller deserves a lot of credit. This was not a case of the favorite losing because they had a letdown. CT rose to the occasion, and they outperformed a Lynx team that shot 51.4% from the field.

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You can always do something else.

[Randy]

Another impressive thing about Williams is her rebounding - 4.9 per game in 26 minutes. In college she was a very good rebounder. Very impressive for a guard. Bentley as the off the bench gunner makes a lot of sense.

[NYL_WNBA_FAN]

Jasmine Thomas is emerging even further as a PG, I think. The Thomases in screen/roll situations were lethal last night. Excellent play design to get Alyssa open in the paint repeatedly, but also good BB IQ from both players. Jasmine really is showing a more advanced understanding of when to score and when to pass. She had an uncharacteristic 7 TOs last night but her 3 point percentage is up to 50% and her assists are near 5 per game. Jasmine is up to .378 from the field now as well. She's playing the best ball of her career, as is Alyssa. Let's see if it continues.

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The poster formerly known as LibWNBAFan.

[Richyyy]

[Randy]

[toad455]

With Bentley coming back shortly, the Sun should stick with Tuck & A Thomas at PF once Tuck is healthy. Dump Adams & keep Fitzgerald.

PG: JThomas/Fitzgerald
SG: CWilliams/Banham
SF: Stricklen/Bentley
PF: AThomas/Tuck
C: JJones/Kizer/BJones

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LET'S GO LIBERTY!!!!!!

Twitter: @TBRBWAY

[Richyyy]

[Michelle89]

[root_thing]

[lynxmania]

Connecticut played really well. Jasmine shot amazing from 3 again against us. Our defense looked flustered at times trying to defend them. Williams is an amazing athlete and her hops are fantastic.

We had a fantastic crowd! Hope we have some good ones this coming weekend.

[NYL_WNBA_FAN]

Another benefit of Alyssa Thomas at the 4 is that between she and Jones, you have two players playing the post spots who can really burn you in transition. Couple that with the speed of Jasmine Thomas and Williams and you always have to be aware on transition defense.

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The poster formerly known as LibWNBAFan.

[Richyyy]

[SpaceJunkie]

[pilight]