I see that IStatVball 3 is a downloadable app and am looking forward to getting more education from users on its many data points.
I don't know how you can enjoy watching the sport if you are responsible for data entry.
Had obligations Saturday so haven't had the opportunity to offer post-match impressions.
My main takeaways:
ISU had 3 matches last weekend. maybe they hadn't recovered?! I'm not sure their H% was above .000
They had a pair of 'bangers' who were terminators when the sets were good (which was not often).
MN on court chemistry was excellent. For any number of reasons the MN VB 'family system' was stressed last year and exhibited high EE (expressed emotion) which was detrimental. They didn't have to contend with a high level opponent which can stress both individual and team performance.... but I believe I can prognosticate with some confidence that this year is going to be much more fun for everyone. Last year there was a palpable 'walking on eggshells' quality in the on court demeanor.
Lydia's ability to terminate on the left in ro1 will be important. A 6 rotation player? not sure, but more reps hitting pipes and BIQs would be nice to see. Her service pace from a high point of contact will continue to be a valuable weapon
This could be a big year for Wookie, particularly if she increases her serving precision. She was roofed early in the evening and made an adjustment to very effective roll shots. She'll have to learn to be a better tipper to be successful in the B1G. Her serve reception shows a big improvement and she deserves to be a 6ro asset.
I don't remember Julia's nickname, but I certainly remember her deep corner kills to end the last couple of sets.
Her serve reception has improved a ton and she looks stronger...and she has a great smile and attitude on court.
VERY GLAD that Phoebe is back. Phoebe is a blocking natural, but had few MB attack opportunities last year. If IStats were right she was getting a lot of attention and that's GREAT. Having Pedro back may resurrect the MN MB performance.
Haven't seen enough of Calissa Minatee. Based on quickness alone, she has a higher ceiling than Arica. But our MB lineup is fluid. If Crowl has made a jump could we even see Grote in the middle? Kali Engeman?
Backcourt:
Z showed progress passing. She's not a Fleck, Rodriguez, Gentil, or McGraw, but she is young. Will she become a ball hawk?
I'd play Chloe Ng in front of Skylar Gray as serving specialist. Friday was not Gray's finest hour. I'd like to see McGhie get more time in the backcourt.
The future is in GOOD HANDS with Stella. The 2" that Shaff has over SS seems like 6". Mel is a force above the net and probably contributed a full handful of points saved or earned scoring on '2', tipping to the corner, or preventing overpass kills. Shaff is also strong behind the service lilne.
Stella is quicker, has softer hands, and demonstrated an uncanny ability to put sets where her hitters could take big swings. I don't see how you can have either setter on the bench. Shaff can be elite when the passing is good on free balls and in serve receive. How will she respond if sharing court time?
We had more fun in Faribault Friday night than at some of last year's events at the Pav when one would feel nervous for the team. Good luck John Cook:
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