Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Women's Basketball Holds Local Media Day
10/13/2003 | 12:00:00 | Women's Basketball
Oct. 13, 2003
By Jeff Honza
www.SIUSalukis.com
CARBONDALE, Ill.-- Southern Illinois University head women's basketball coach Lori Opp addressed local media earlier today at SIU Arena. The Saluki women officially begin preparation for the 2003-04 season on Saturday, Oct. 18.
Head Coach Lori Opp
On beginning practice this weekend: "Individual workouts and conditioning have gone well. I'm real excited about starting practice and I think the players are too."
On team's health: "I'm a little concerned about some nagging injuries a couple of our players have, but I think any team is going to deal with those things as you get ready to start a season. I would rather these injuries happen now than during the season."
On chemistry: "Everyone has done a good job of pushing each other and I think that needs to continue for us to get better. I think every player has to understand that they're fighting for a starting position and if they're not pushing themselves or their teammates, than we're going to be in trouble. The kids have to understand that that level of competitiveness has to be there every day."
On playing first six games on the road: "Us being on the road doesn't affect us as greatly as most people think. I'm more concerned for our freshman and newcomers. There isn't much difference between us playing at home or on the road because we don't get the great crowds, and maybe that'll change over time. But us playing games on the road gives us time to get the mistakes out and improve as a team."
On goals: "We have several goals this year. Academically, we want to improve our team 3.3 GPA. Obviously, we want to make the conference tournament. I think people are going to see a more exciting brand of basketball and that we're a lot more athletic than we've been in the past. Hopefully, our up-tempo style of play will in turn, take care of some of the goals we set as a team."
On depth: "I think our depth will help our style of play. With some of the things we plan on doing, we'll need to have more people who we can run in and out of games. If we can throw different looks and personnel at our opponents, and force them to make adjustments, I think our depth will help our success."
On playing in first MVC-TV game at SIU Arena: "I think it will be very exciting. I know Julie Beck and Mike Trude have been working hard to get the stands filled. Our players are really excited about it and I think it'll be great exposure for our program."
SIU tips off its 2003-04 season at Southeast Missouri State on Friday, Nov. 21.
