Women's basketball hopes 'new faces' bring about 'new places'

Arizona Daily Wildcat Denise Dove

I just completed my sixth season as an assistant coach on the Arizona women's basketball staff and how time has flown and times have changed! Back in the past, when few believed in our program, there were six players who took a chance on the University of Arizona and wanted to make a difference.

Thank goodness for Marte Alexander, Adia Barnes, Mikko Giordano, Fatima Imara, Keisha Johnson (played her freshman year and is now a key player on the volleyball team), DeAngela Minter and Amber Phoenix. This special group is the true "Young Guns"!! I can't forget ChaRon Walker, who joined our Wildcat family two years after the Young Guns arrived.

All made a major difference that has changed the attitude and commitment of all future Wildcats. This group also helped bring more talented players into the program such as current players Reshea Bristol, Monika "Bug" Crank, Lisa Griffith, Shontey Hambrick, Monique Paige, LaKeisha Taylor and Felecity Willis. These returning players next year are the bridge and glue between these big classes and at times are not given enough credit. They are out to prove they want to make a difference and bring the program to a new level. They are the leaders and set the example for next year's seven newcomers. Now that the chapter of the Young Guns has ended, a new generation is about to come in and set new standards for Wildcat basketball.

They are a talented group of young women who are very eager to do whatever is necessary to help the team and make an impact. I thought about next year's motto being "New Faces, New Places," as Tysell Bozeman, Julie Brase, Tatum Brown, Jen Callahan, Angie Lackey, Michelle Mitchell and Liz Pickney are names to remember when watching the team play next year.

I believe and know in my heart this team is going to carry Arizona to places we have never been before. Our expectation will be for everyone to make the most of every day through hard work. The results of all that time will be the improvement in themselves.

As we continue our journey toward our destination (a National Championship) together, we will hold our heads high in knowing we "put it all out on the line." That is the heart of a champion and that is what our athletes have. I am so proud of them all!

Have a great summer, make the most of every day, and see you at our games next year!!