A Look at the 2019-20 Roster With/And Transfers In Mind
by dillon77 (2019-04-12 13:15:15)
Edited on 2019-04-17 06:21:20

Since news of Jackie Young's possible -- then definite -- departure, the Bench has seen more than a few threads and posts on the roster situation heading into the 2019-20 season.

With that in mind, I've decided to cut and paste information I've seen on this board - primarily about roster size and positioning -- along with some Muffet McGraw quotes from an Anthony Anderson article. Lastly, I've looked for grad. and "regular" transfers on Raoul's blog, other boards and posts from the Bench.

Nothing here, of course, is definitive and I look forward to any information that we can include, delete, etc.

I thought tracking of high-school recruits was going to be the prime side-project to posting on the board, but it's obvious that transfers (regular and graduate) have become something more than a band-aid in D1 women's basketball.

MUFFET McGRAW DISCUSSING GRAD TRANSFERS FOLLOWING SIGNING OF S.B., A.P.

“We’ll probably look at a grad transfer,” McGraw said of an alternative to signing more high schoolers from the class of 2019.

The coach ... had never added a transfer until last year when Shepard, then a junior, came over from Nebraska, and Lili Thompson came aboard as a Stanford graduate with a year of eligibility remaining.

McGraw said adding one more player is “more likely” than adding two.

“I wouldn’t mind taking two more,” McGraw said of adding enough, be they transfers or high schoolers, to in effect replace the four who will depart, “(but even with one), we’ll still have a walk-on (in Kaitlin Cole), so we’ll have 10 players.”

The coach indicated a veteran might be the best route to go anyway.

“It would be great if we could get a grad transfer to come in with Jackie and that would balance things out a little better (than another freshman),” McGraw said of the 2019-20 roster makeup.

BREAKDOWN BY CLASS, ELIGIBILITY

Since Muffet gave that interview, Jackie has gone pro, so the Irish are down to 8 scholarship players. Adding Katie Cole and a grad transfer would get the roster to 10. (That was also before Nicole Benz (re)joined the team.) Does MM still want one grad transfer? Or expand to two now that Jackie has left?

0 Seniors
1 Junior (Dani Patterson)
4 Sophomores (Danielle Cosgrove, Jordan Nixon, Abby Prohaska, Mik Vaughn)
3 Freshman (Sam Brunelle, Katlyn Gilbert, Anaya Peoples).
8 = Total Amount of Scholarship Players
Walk-Ons (at this point): Katie Cole & Nicole Benz, both juniors and both guards


POSSIBLE POSITION-BY-POSITION BREAKDOWN

Low Post: Mik Vaughn, Danielle Cosgrove
High Post: Dani Patterson, Sam Brunelle
Wing: Sam Brunelle, Abby Prohaska
Point Guard: Jordan Nixon (Backup: Katlyn Gilbert, Anaya Peoples)
Guard: Anaya Peoples, Katlyn Gilbert

Possible Needs for 2019-20
(as identified by MM, others)
- Post Position
- Veteran Leadership
- Long-Distance Shooting
- Big Guard/Wing: Is this Brunelle or Prohaska’s best position?

GRAD TRANSFERS (can play immediately)
Post/Forward
- Lydia Rivers, 6’2” forward from Radford who averaged 12.2 ppg, 10.3 rpg (thanks to MPG for spotting this mid-major perfoRmer) and performed ably against Maryland in this year’s NCAA.

Shooting Guards (with noted long-distance ability)
- Kitija Laska, 6’0” guard from USF who was thought to be a possible first-rounder before injuring her knee early in the season. (Is thinking over her options: Pro (somewhere)? Return to USF? Transfer?)
- Stephanie Watts, 5’11” guard, North Carolina. Paris Kea’s running-mate in backcourt, she was UNC’s three-point specialist before being injured.
- Destinee Walker, 5'11" guard, North Carolina. She was Stephanie Watt's running mate for two years before being injured. Made All-ACC Freshman team and average double figures those two years. Also made All-Academic ACC teams.

Point Guard
(Would MM want a vet to back up/work with Jordan or will Anaya/Katlyn be slated for that. If the former, these two filed for transfer.)

- Marta Sniezek, 5’8” floor leader from Stanford. Suffered injury before senior season. Not a scoring threat, but smart, adept floor leader who could offer veteran leadership.
- Minyon Moore, 5’8” whirlwind from USC who has decided to finish her career outside LA. (Initial reports indicated interest in Oregon {friends with Ionescu] or Mississippi State [need for pg]).


NOTABLE TRANSFERS IN THE PORTAL
(Would need to sit out one year unless waiver request is approved)

- Evina Westbrook, 6’0” sophomore guard from Tennessee. Hails from Oregon, visited ND as a HS senior, chose Vols and played PG from day, although off-guard or wing might be a better position. Is she still interested in ND/vice versa? Would she be willing to play in a three-guard attack and not be focal point? Regarding waiver: while she would be leaving a school that had a coaching change, would UTenn be supportive given her speaking out on Warlick? Positive support from past schools apparently helps waiver petitions (see Shepard/Romeo at Nebraska.)

- Sidney Cooks, 6’4” sophomore forward, Michigan State, who was #5 in Hoopgurlz 2017. Versatile offensive presence who can shoot outside and take it from inside. Best player for MSU against Central Michigan and Notre Dame in 2019 NCAAs. Totally worth reaching out to determine “mutual interest.”

- Mikiah Herbert Harrigan, 6’2” jr. forward from South Carolina who started 21 games this season and figured to play a significant role next year. Reports from various boards expressed surprise because Harrigan has talent. But she also seemed to have issues with Coach Dawn Staley over “hard coaching” and discipline. The big issue here: she only has one year of eligibility and would have to sit out a year, save a waiver. Will the Irish need her in 2021? What does that do for continuity? Many point to Florida State as a possible landing spot because her boyfriend is on FSU’s football team.

- LaDazhia Williams, a 6-foot-4 sophomore forward who has averaged fewer than seven minutes a game for the Gamecocks. Williams was a player who ND, UConn and others scouted in high school/AAU in Florida. While she is thought to have a decent shooting touch, her foot speed is questioned and has not progressed much. Plateau? More coaching could help her turn around? Or better on a lesser stage?





Sidney Cooks
by badelman  (2019-04-13 09:12:37)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

Per Raoul on Twitter Sidney said she’s wanting to transfer to a team “that naturally plays an up tempo pace”.
Maybe MSU playing at ND in the tournament was a great thing.


Get Cooks
by Irishhugo  (2019-04-13 10:20:53)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

and Westbrook. They can sit a year, improve their skills and get caught up in ND academics. Let the ND young players get experience in 2020 and win championships in 2021-22


Westbrook
by hempfield75  (2019-04-13 18:23:05)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

I believe Dillon mentioned in earlier posts that she may apply for
a waiver. I think based on committees recent history of approving
case by case transfers. She may have a good chance at a waiver and
play immediately for the program she chooses to transfer to. She would
probably have to wait for their approval 1 minute before tip off of the
first game.

...Outside Abby and Jordan we have no experience guards returning.
Hopefully opportunity to play for a GREAT school and program along with
MM, Niele, Beth, Carol, and ND's history will appeal to her.

...I personally believe this right now is a great opportunity for any
transfer to take a strong look at ND.

...Right now we have everything a student athlete would want in a school.
First of all, ND is one of the great programs athletically and
academically in the country. Next what is important to SA is an
opportunity to play even start immediately. Third, the BEST Coaches in
the country. 4, Top notch and new facilities. ND not afraid to spend
the money where needed. 5, Tough and challenging schedule. 6, Strong
fan and alumni group that supports the teams. Great current and
in coming underclassman and freshman. Won't have to do everything on
their own.

...Those are the ones I can think of the top of my head. But the 3
most important reason to consider ND are the love of the program that
past and current players have for ND. Next would be the coaching
staff. For the guards who else would you want to play for than MM
and Neil. For the Post there is Carol and for the wings there is
Beth. These coaches have a great reputation of winning and preparing
players for the next level. Just look at this past years senior class.
Not many schools can make that claim. Then there is the opportunity
to play and possibly start immediately. Soon as you step on campus.
I know that is very important to an athlete that has pride in their
self and ability. Then another that you here very little about. That
is the support staff including our walk on's. ND would not be where they
are today with out a strong staff that supports and loves this program.

...So to finish my short post. Any transfers or future freshman out there
looking for a great school great program, with great facilities, great
coaches, great staff, great current players, and a great opportunity.
Look no further than the University of Notre Dame. You can not go
wrong choosing this great university and program. Everyone will be
behind you and support you.

That finishes my short post for today. Thank you for this opportunity.

SEG/Chief



Up-Tempo, Looking to Go Pro: Sure Sounds Like ND....
by dillon77  (2019-04-13 09:24:58)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

...could be a possible landing spot.

Here's an article from her hometown Kenosha Paper (thanks to ndhoops recruits for the link).


Pace: While our starters will change, I'm sure the plan to rebound the ball and get it out will continue.

Getting Ready for Pro Ball: Carol Owens does a great job of helping our posts take the next step: Dev Peters, Ace, Bri, Jess. Arike repeatedly praises the coaching staff during interviews.

Majors: Psychology, check. Don't remember pre-law when I was there, but there certainly are other areas that could sustain her interest.

Like you/others have said, Ms. Cooks got to see how ND would address both of those interests first-hand while she was in South Bend in March.

BTW, Marquette ran a very up-tempo pace, as well, under Diane Kieger and Megan Duffy prefers to push the pace, as well. Wouldn't be surprised if Megan places a phone call.


That article seems to have ND in invisible ink as a good
by MPG  (2019-04-13 10:16:57)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

match for Sidney. She also saw ND several times this year in March and way back in November when the Irish and MSU scrimmaged. Obviously the success of Jessica Shepard at ND would loom large, given Sidney's stated goals.


One Can Only Hope, Right?
by dillon77  (2019-04-13 10:59:39)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

On the other hand, hopefully MM/Niele/Carol and Ms. Cooks are/will be ascertaining some kind of "mutual interest."

And, hopefully, Ms. Marshall has/is scheduling that Official Visit.


Miss Cook
by hempfield75  (2019-04-13 18:31:55)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

Did you mention that she would have 2 years of eligibility left? If so, that
would give what MM has been looking for in pairing up with a possible
Marshall (if she selects ND) for 2 years.

Than lets just add in Westbrook for sugar coating. Oh basketball gods,
please hear our prayers. We thank you in advance.

SEG/Chief


Yup. Two Years of Eligibility...
by dillon77  (2019-04-13 18:42:37)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

..would have to probably sit out a year. If your read that article in her hometown paper, there does not seem to have any hardship with the MSU program (which I would expect...good coach). Just wants a change of program.

Let's cross fingers and think the proverbial good thoughts!


It is PaybackTime To US
by hempfield75  (2019-04-14 20:02:55)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

Thanks for the info. Now I hope this turns in our favor.

...Maybe MSU and ND are in the exchange program business. We send them a
post and they send us a post in return.

...I thought she might have to sit out a year. Do not remember reading
anything saying she was having a hardship at MSU.

...Hopefully she decides to attend ND. Either way, wish her and MSU all
the luck. That is until MSU plays us of course.

SEG/Chief


A Few Thoughts and One Piece of News
by MPG  (2019-04-12 20:40:57)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

Thanks for a thorough review of the roster situation and transfer prospects!

After reading your position by position breakdown, I was struck by how "unproven" the current 2019-20 roster is. The only "proven" players are Abby and Mik in their roles as subs. Some would make a case for Dani as a proven sub, but I never saw a clear reserve role emerge for her during the past two years. Jordan was promising while starting, but the injuries hurt her development and she is unproven in my eyes.

I am beginning to see how Sam Brunelle could develop into a Samuelson role for ND. Perhaps she will fit what used to be called the "wing forward" role.

Earlier today Sidney Crooks tweeted her farewell to MSU. She also retweeted Jackie Young's thank you note and WNBA announcement... I would be willing wait a year for to become eligible to play at ND.


Rivers and Watts
by 2ndstreeter  (2019-04-12 19:25:35)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

Lydia rivers as a 6’2 forward with rebounding prowess sounds intriguing. Comes from an athletic family ( brother plays for the Patriots) and could fill some of that void being left in the wake of Young’s departure. A big step up in competition for her though.

Watts has already proved her talent in the ACC so her 3pt shooting ability would be a nice addition.

Roll the dice and go for some big talent in the portal and hope for a waiver to play immediately?

I think we need help immediately next season for someone(s) who can fill that zero in the senior’s column on the roster that Young would have filled.


Rivers had double digit rebounds vs. VaTech and UVA
by MPG  (2019-04-12 20:45:18)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

as well as eight vs. MD in the NCAA tourney. Her only weak Power 5 game was vs. NC State and she had limited minutes due to foul trouble. My guess is that she could be an Ariel Braker for ND which would be a big help for next season.


Apparently, She Has Some Va. Tech Connections, Too
by dillon77  (2019-04-13 08:20:27)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

Apparently, her dad played hoops and football there. Hmmm.
Plus, Kenny Brooks loses the super Swede, Regan Magarity. Pretty sure he has some frosh height coming in, but a vet could help bridge the gap.

Its amazing how competent bigs are at a premium, which makes Mulkey's ability to attract and stockpile so many of them (Smith, Egbo are ready to roll) a plus. She might lose a Mompremier here and there, but there is always some height there.


We seem to struggle at times getting. So sad. Maybe
by hempfield75  (2019-04-13 18:35:00)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

we get lucky this time.

SEG/Chief


Wow DP is the senior-most vet. Scary, but full of potential. *
by Jon  (2019-04-12 17:31:26)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

This very well could be something that thrusts her into greatness.


Arent we at 8 SS players? *
by Homeboy73  (2019-04-12 13:28:58)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post


Yup. I Listed The Eight (but counted wrong)
by dillon77  (2019-04-12 13:49:40)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

Sometimes the writing has a deleterious effect on my mathematical "skills."

Thanks for catching. Corrections made and everything else stands.