Interstice. (in tʉr′stis) noun. A space or gap in things generally continuous. Example: This interstice between the WNBA and college basketball seasons really sucks.
But today, thanks to all the folks associated with the Terps' basketball program and the Maryland Rebounders, this interstice was made a little more tolerable. Members of the Rebounders were invited to watch a Maryland practice. And while the players and coaches were hard at work, the doors to some of the behind-the-scenes points of interest were thrown open to the boosters for guided tours. And here's a little of what we saw . . .
The Team Room. Comfy seating. Music. A Fridge (something that keeps food and beverages cold . . . not the football coach). A TV and DVD player. Laptops. And plenty of interesting "art" on the walls.
The locker room. Before the players arrive, it's neat. After the players leave, it's neat. While the players are on court practicing . . . well, it kinda looks like it's inhabited by teenagers!
The players, coaches and scout team, working hard. (That's new Assistant Coach Tina Langley watching from the baseline.)
A very focused Coach B keeping a close eye on the team's performance.
And BasketCases guest analyst Tyler, also keeping a close eye on the team's performance.
Coach Daron Park has the team's full attention.
Post-practice, each member of the 2008-09 squad introduced herself to the Rebounders. On the left, High School All-American and USA U18 Gold Medal winner Lynetta Kizer. In the middle, a senior who needs no introduction! And on the right, another senior, Sa'de Wiley-Gatewood, who, we're extremely happy to report, looks like she's finally healthy enough to help run the Terps' offense this season, having sat out last season because of injuries.
One "oldster" and some newbies. Far left, Yemi Oyefuwa from London, England. Yemi has only been playing basketball for less than 2 years, so she's still learning the game . . . but she's got plenty of upside potential. Next to Yemi, Anjale Barrett. Anjale was red-shirted last year due to a pre-season injury. We're pleased that this year she's back and ready to play. Next is grad student Lori Bjork. Lori earned her undergraduate degree from Illinois in 3 years, is sitting out this season (due to NCAA transfer regulations), and will be eligible to play for Maryland in 2009-10. Of course, next to Lori is the very recognizable, Marissa Coleeeeee-man! And on the far right of the picture, next to Marissa, is Junior College National Champ Dee Liles from nearby Suitland, MD.
Last but not least, Sophs Drey Mingo and Marah Stickland . . . looking very much like veterans, not rookies any more!
But today, thanks to all the folks associated with the Terps' basketball program and the Maryland Rebounders, this interstice was made a little more tolerable. Members of the Rebounders were invited to watch a Maryland practice. And while the players and coaches were hard at work, the doors to some of the behind-the-scenes points of interest were thrown open to the boosters for guided tours. And here's a little of what we saw . . .
The Team Room. Comfy seating. Music. A Fridge (something that keeps food and beverages cold . . . not the football coach). A TV and DVD player. Laptops. And plenty of interesting "art" on the walls.
The locker room. Before the players arrive, it's neat. After the players leave, it's neat. While the players are on court practicing . . . well, it kinda looks like it's inhabited by teenagers!
The players, coaches and scout team, working hard. (That's new Assistant Coach Tina Langley watching from the baseline.)
A very focused Coach B keeping a close eye on the team's performance.
And BasketCases guest analyst Tyler, also keeping a close eye on the team's performance.
Coach Daron Park has the team's full attention.
Post-practice, each member of the 2008-09 squad introduced herself to the Rebounders. On the left, High School All-American and USA U18 Gold Medal winner Lynetta Kizer. In the middle, a senior who needs no introduction! And on the right, another senior, Sa'de Wiley-Gatewood, who, we're extremely happy to report, looks like she's finally healthy enough to help run the Terps' offense this season, having sat out last season because of injuries.
One "oldster" and some newbies. Far left, Yemi Oyefuwa from London, England. Yemi has only been playing basketball for less than 2 years, so she's still learning the game . . . but she's got plenty of upside potential. Next to Yemi, Anjale Barrett. Anjale was red-shirted last year due to a pre-season injury. We're pleased that this year she's back and ready to play. Next is grad student Lori Bjork. Lori earned her undergraduate degree from Illinois in 3 years, is sitting out this season (due to NCAA transfer regulations), and will be eligible to play for Maryland in 2009-10. Of course, next to Lori is the very recognizable, Marissa Coleeeeee-man! And on the far right of the picture, next to Marissa, is Junior College National Champ Dee Liles from nearby Suitland, MD.
Last but not least, Sophs Drey Mingo and Marah Stickland . . . looking very much like veterans, not rookies any more!
The Terps take to the court for their first pre-season exhibition game on Sunday, November 2nd. That's only two weeks from today. And two weeks after that, the regular season home opener! Finally! All we can say it that this interstice has been brutal . . . but at least now we can begin to see the light at the end of the turtle tunnel.
Photo Credits: DC BasketCases
posted by BasketCases @ 7:31 PM
5 comments
5 Comments:
Where's Kim Rodgers?
I heard that Kim's not feeling well. I hope it's not the illness I overheard and I'm not positive of how correct that is so, I won't mention it. Hopefully, she'll be feeling better soon.
AMEN!! - finally something to cheer for again! GO TERPS!
Nice pics! Thanks for the update. Let's tip off that season, NOW!!!!!!
Very nice blog. Wasn't this event a breath of fresh air! It is wonderful to be connected with The Rebounders and The University of Maryland. Now, I can BELIEVE.
Post a Comment
<< Home