The Nebraska women’s basketball team is currently preparing for a crucial game against Kansas, and the team is concentrating on several key areas in order to ensure success. As the Huskers strive to decrease their turnovers, their young players are stepping up and proving themselves on the court.
During the recent 76-51 victory over Southern, key players Jaz Shelley and Alexis Markowski took a step back in the final minutes, allowing the substitutes and freshman forward Natalie Potts to exhibit their skills. While this may have been considered “garbage time,” it is a valuable opportunity for the substitutes to demonstrate leadership and take control of the game.
Shelley emphasized the importance of displaying leadership, especially when the starters are off the floor. She praised backup point guard Callin Hake for taking charge of the substitutes, which is a promising sign for the team’s depth.
However, Markowski emphasized the significance of making wise decisions and decreasing late-game fouls. In addressing the issue of turnovers, head coach Amy Williams stressed the need for improvement in that area. The team currently ranks 181st in turnover margin among Division I teams, and Williams is determined to rectify this aspect.
Despite the victory over Southern, the abundance of turnovers in the second half was cause for concern, as Williams mentioned, “Far too many turnovers.” As the team gears up for the upcoming match against Kansas, they are diligently working on minimizing giveaways and strengthening their performance on the court.
In addition to their focus on turnovers, the Huskers are also welcoming back forward Annika Stewart, who returned to the court after an ankle injury. Although she missed all four of her shots, Stewart’s two key offensive rebounds reflected her determination and contribution to the team. Williams acknowledged Stewart’s journey back to full strength, emphasizing the importance of building her confidence and conditioning as she continues to recover.
When it comes to their opponents, Kansas has a formidable roster, with a resume that exceeds their win-loss record. Their losses to powerhouse teams such as Penn State, Virginia Tech, Connecticut, and Texas A&M attest to the team’s competitive nature. The leading scorer, true freshman S’mya Nichols, adds a layer of complexity to the upcoming matchup, showcasing the team’s depth and talent.
Referring to their previous encounters, the Huskers secured a dramatic triple-overtime win against Kansas last season, demonstrating their resilience and competitive spirit. However, the Jayhawks had their redemption in the WNIT, securing a victory over Nebraska. As the two teams prepare to clash once again, the stage is set for a thrilling showdown.
As the Nebraska women’s basketball team prepares for the challenge ahead, the focus on reducing turnovers and maximizing the potential of their young talent is of utmost importance. With the matchup against Kansas on the horizon, the team’s determination and strategic approach are poised to make an impact on the court.