Koval as freshman

I should have used a different phrase rather than work in slowly. I think Koval will have a big adjustment to the speed and athleticism she will be facing next year. I watched her in a couple of all star games where the competition was much stronger than in her HS games. Both M Randolph and J Edwards had little problem moving around her near the basket. I think Koval will be a great player by her junior year but if she faces R Beers Betts Kiki I or any of the South Carolina front court players she will have real problems and pick up quick fouls. She needs next level conditioning and nutrition. Again just my thoughts and open to another other ideas and viewpoints

We aren't far apart. Kate is not quick and will have to

work on handling quick athletic forwards/centers. I also agree she will get in foul trouble as a result of that.

Lastly, nutrition and conditioning will make a difference. (In fact Kate's high school coach mentioned that in an interview.)

The good news is she is very competitive and wants to continue improving. She will.

Koval strengths/weaknesses

I have no worry about KK on the offensive end. She has great footwork, vision, passing ability and a soft touch all the way out to three point area. It is defense where my concern lies. Again I also think we are in agreement and only want the Irish to compete and win

I can't remember another high school post as skilled on the

offensive end. She also has a high BB I. Q. and is a team player. Her high school team, LI Lutheran was a guard oriented team. They pushed the ball and weren't afraid to let it fly. Having played that style of play will help Kate adjust.

(I think she will be the focus more at Notre Dame than she was in high school, which is the opposite of how it usually goes.)

I totally agree with your post

to me, Koval looks very much like Kittle at the start of her career at VT. She isn't slow and plodding, but she isn't twitchy quick either. her strength is definitely on offense. I think the area she will work on the hardest at ND is on the defensive end. offense will come easy to her with the talented Guards we have and the offensive schemes Niele uses.

My condolences. *