I'm Back

Sorry for the delay since my last post. I’ve been doing a lot of writing for the paper, but I should have done a better job of giving this blog some updates.
So here are some random thoughts between then and now, and how they pertain to the Sun:

*How about Asjha Jones. She had 14 points and seven rebounds in the team’s second exhibition game the other night in New Mexico, furthering the belief of coach Mike Thibault that this could be a big year for the former UConn star.
She may not have produced similar numbers against Detroit in the preseason opener, but Jones showed the ability to create open shots, which will pay off more nights than not.
*As a journalist, you look forward to the beginning of each season because it creates new opportunities to find players you enjoy covering. A lot of times that means finding someone engaging and fun to talk to. We’ll call them go-to quotes, although there are plenty of other ways to describe them.
Erin Phillips, the fiery young point guard from Australia, might be that new face all the reporters will be spending time with. Aside from being a great quote — she’s very comfortable with media attention, and seems to enjoy it — this kid can play. It may take a little time, but Phillips could one day be a star in this league, just like she is back home.
*Cuts are approaching, and if you ask anyone involved in Sun training camp, they’ll tell you how close the competition is. The most interesting race seems to pit Jen Derevjanik against Jamie Carey in a fierce battle for the third, and likely final, point guard spot. (Phillips and starter-once-healthy Lindsay Whalen should be locks)
I can’t guess who’s staying or going, but I also can’t imagine both making the team. I’d bet plenty of WNBA teams are paying close attention to Thibault’s decision, because either of these players can be effective in the league. It’s a nice luxury for the Sun to have considering the tremendous depth of guards they possess.

Well, that’s all for now. It’s way too late, and I’ve got to drive to Albany, N.Y., tomorrow to catch up with Ann Strother and Diana Taurasi, who are in town with their Phoenix team to play Detroit. It will be the first time I’ve seen any of UConn’s three drafted players from this year, and I’m looking forward to hearing how Strother has progressed.

Til then …