October 8, 2024 • 20 mins
Georgia Amoore sits down with Mark Schindler to break down and discuss her past half year since the college season ended, time with the Australian Senior National team, weighing her pro options, following Kenny Brooks to Lexington, and more!
If you'd like to check out the full Film Room episode where Georgia and Mark dive into her tape: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSPW9eR1D5GWsshZA2_M0KLWbFI_R21yI&si=qweaNph_YJ9tV8vK
You can listen to the pod on
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theyve-got-now/id1652378572
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eTVgaVudBvS9yox3XbgGX?si=16a02c3ea75942e8
As always, a major thank you to James Edwards III for the intro and outro music! If you have not already, follow Mark on Twitter @MG_Schindler and be sure to rate and review the pod! Send any questions, comments, or feedback Mark's way, and enjoy the show.
If you'd like to check out the full Film Room episode where Georgia and Mark dive into her tape: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSPW9eR1D5GWsshZA2_M0KLWbFI_R21yI&si=qweaNph_YJ9tV8vK
You can listen to the pod on
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theyve-got-now/id1652378572
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eTVgaVudBvS9yox3XbgGX?si=16a02c3ea75942e8
As always, a major thank you to James Edwards III for the intro and outro music! If you have not already, follow Mark on Twitter @MG_Schindler and be sure to rate and review the pod! Send any questions, comments, or feedback Mark's way, and enjoy the show.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Really excited to be joined on another episode of the
Film Room with Georgia aymore from I'm still not used
to saying University Kentucky yet, but she's coming to us
live from Lexington. Georgia, how are you doing.
Speaker 2 (00:12):
I'm good. You might be the first person to say that,
though I haven't done any media where they say Georgia
from the University of Kentucky.
Speaker 3 (00:18):
Sir, it's got it. I mean, it feels weird to me,
so I'm sure it feels even weirder to you.
Speaker 1 (00:23):
I can't really, you know, I've been trying to wrap
my head around it. But what has that been like
for you, kind of stepping on campus the last couple
of weeks and getting a feel for being in Lisnton.
Speaker 2 (00:33):
Yeah, I mean it's been It's been a challenge, but
it's been good. Obviously, any transfer is a challenge, regardless
if you're with your coach or not. But it's been
good because a bunch of new girls, new a new
area and new facility. So I'm just getting used to everything,
and you know, honestly, it's making time go quick. I
don't know if it's the senioritist or the change, but
it's already September at the end of September, and I
(00:54):
feel like I just got here in July, so it's gone.
Speaker 1 (00:57):
It's been a wild summer, and I'm even more while
for you, I'm sure, but like I have no idea
how like we're like a month and a week from
the season, which just doesn't feel real.
Speaker 3 (01:08):
Well, like you mentioned in terms.
Speaker 1 (01:09):
Of like obviously being a fifth year senior being here
with Kenny still kind of taking on more of I'm
sure you had one already as a leadership role last year,
but like I feel like it's an even higher level
this year. Right, there's you know we were talking about
before we hopped on, but like it is a very
different team. This is not like just bringing Virginia Tech
to Kentucky. So what has that been like? Obviously you're
(01:30):
somebody who's been in the system for your entire career,
kind of getting to showcase that to people who haven't
been in that.
Speaker 2 (01:35):
Yeah, I mean, definitely a challenge. But you know, when
I transferred to I said I wanted a challenge and
I'm going to get it all. This was probably the
least suspecting challenge I thought I was going to have
because I thought, you know, intellectually, I wasn't thinking, you know,
I'm going to have to teach, like I'm going to
have to be so confident in myself in this process
that I'm going to have to teach other people. And
I was just having this conversation. I mean, we bought
(01:57):
in people who were the best at their previous schools.
So now it's like, how we're going to make that gel,
how we're going to make that form. You know, some
people have never played at Coach Brooks's style pace, the
way he plays is very different to anyone else. So yeah,
it's been a challenge, but it's been good slowly getting
used to it. It was a bit rough the first
couple of days, but now we're an official practice and
(02:19):
people are getting used to it. People are picking up
on things. You know, even like Tiani Ki, like did
not have opportunities that you used, whether it be injury
or just because she wasn't being played, she has been phenomenal. Like,
it's just different how the different environments can can help
you know, project you And you know, I'm excited for
the season because we have great pieces being put together
(02:41):
right now.
Speaker 1 (02:41):
Yeah, No, I think that's such a great understanding too,
because exactly like you're saying, like obviously everything can kind
of play a part, but like just where you play
and how you get prioritized and how you fit in
matters so much. And I think that's what was fun
and watching the transfers come together because obviously we know
what you can do in Kenny system, but like you know,
I've watched Jordanoby for a couple of years and I
was like, because I think part of not saying you
(03:03):
guys are obviously still a very good team last year,
but I think, like you know, part of what was
tough is like you can't replace the Asia Greg, you
can't replace Taylor soul. Like having that kind of versatile
forward who really connects things and keeps things moving, like
I enjoying could really bring that this year, which is
going to be exciting. I wanted to ask you too
what you thought of Claris Silva so far.
Speaker 2 (03:23):
Unreal? Oh my gosh, Like it may have taken her
a week to get her feet under her rightfully so,
because you know jet lag different pace, physicality, but like
she's an elite level passer out of the post. Yeah,
and she's just so smooth. She never looks rush, she
never looks intimidated. I don't know what it is about
the European game, but she's coming pretty well prepped. Obviously,
(03:47):
she is still a freshman, so I'm sure she's going
to hit a little at some point or come game time,
you know it's going to be difficult. But I've been
so so impressed with her and the minute that she
gives some of that confidence or some of that cockiness,
like it's going to be level. But she has glimpses
of some really really good IQ plays and I just
don't think you get that often with freshmen coming in.
Speaker 1 (04:09):
Yeah, especially with the post, it's really hard to find
that so like and again talking about Kenny System, like
so much of it is like you gotta be. I
think that's one of the things that went underrated with
Liz last year, is like she really continued to improve
as somebody like could be like a hub of the offense.
Make those plays something be fascinating to watch that continue
to grow with Clara Squared. Yeah, but you know, going
(04:31):
off that too, I think that's one of the things
that I'm like most interested to talk about, and obviously
we'll dive into it in film a little bit, but like,
of course there's the aspect of just like and probably
most importantly, like I mean, even and Liz were tight,
and like seeing that injury obviously sucks, right, you know
there's not anything you can do about it, but in
terms of what that did for your play and how
(04:51):
much that impacted things for you, and also moving forward,
like having to learn just completely new screening partners after
that's what was your bread and butter for four and
a half years.
Speaker 3 (05:01):
You know, like, what has that been like so far?
Speaker 1 (05:04):
Kind of getting a grasp on that because I mean,
just watching again, going back and watching the last four games,
I was like, Jesus, this is like it felt like
you were storming the beaches of Normandy every time you ran.
So it was like, you know, what has that process
been like for you? And kind of getting accustomed to that.
Speaker 2 (05:19):
Yeah, I mean with Liz and I, like everyone knew
the two man game was coming. You just simply couldn't
stop it because we had so many options and I
didn't realize it up until I started working at Kentucky
with these other posts. Like Liz was so good at
kind of manipulating what she wanted that it made me
think I was dimes and vice versa, because maybe she
didn't want to like beat up in the post, so
she would come and set a baseline screen, or she
(05:40):
would set a middle screen so she could have an
easy jumper. Right now, I think, you know, Clara Strack
kind of sitting behind Liz and watching that this year,
Like I'm trying to put the confidence into her, like
I read you just as much as you read me,
Like it's okay to demand the ball, It's okay to
like screen and want to roll or want to pop
(06:01):
to the three like you just you control me as
much as I can control you. And I think that
might be difficult for someone young like her for seeing
me a fifth year who you know, I mean, we
excelled and pick and roll last year, so it might
be intimidating trying to step into that position. I don't
want to say replaced because Claire and lives are different,
but it's kind of still the same action. So building
(06:22):
confidence in that, and that's only going to happen with experience,
Like we can watch as much film as we can,
but unless we're talking about it and working on a
daily it's not going to happen. And you know, even
with Clara Silver, she rolls differently, she has her difference
words that she likes, and and Tianni Ki, you know,
I've been doing a bit of pick and pop with her.
You know, sometimes she goes to the three. So it's
(06:42):
I got to be really in tune with who was
screening me, what they want. It's a lot more challenging
because Liz, it was we just ready to like a book.
Now it's like I got three other people screening me,
and now it's like they're all so different. So that's
been like fun to watch a during practices. But yeah,
(07:03):
I mean it's obviously a vital pot about offense. I
see how it evolves this year.
Speaker 1 (07:09):
Yeah, yeah, and I'm excited for that too, because, like
you mentioned, I think so much of the last two
years has been you growing and evolving as a point guard.
Speaker 3 (07:17):
Right, And like I think so much more.
Speaker 1 (07:20):
Goes into being a point guard than just like, you.
Speaker 3 (07:22):
Know, being able to pass the ball.
Speaker 1 (07:23):
It's like, you know, you got you got to be
able to like set things and get people in the
right spots. And I think, especially now, like you're talking about,
like I think that's kind of going to be the
biggest growing stage, who was like, all right, how can
I become not just somebody who's really able to create,
but like, all right, I settle things down, I get things,
you know, facilitated, I get things moving where they need to,
because that's just I mean, that's the hardest part to
(07:45):
grow in as a as a playmaker, right, So it's
going to be really fun to watch that for you.
I wanted to ask too, kind of going off that
I know I've heard you talk a lot about like
just how.
Speaker 3 (07:56):
Different Australia's development system is.
Speaker 1 (07:58):
And obviously, I mean it's something I'm a I was
talking about with Georgia Woollie the other day from Syracuse,
and I like, obviously people can realize like, okay, it's
not AAU, but also I think it's just very different
in terms of how it teaches fundamentals and builds players
base up. Well that's what's so interesting because like, obviously,
if i'd never heard your accent before, I wouldn't have
known you were an Australian Guard because you very much
(08:20):
do not play like a lot of other Australian Guards.
And I feel like, obviously part of that is Kenny
and being able to work with him. But where did
that kind of first get instilled in you, because again,
like the movement, the off drible shot making is not
like a typical you know what you're seeing from the
Australian Guard.
Speaker 2 (08:36):
Yeah for sure. Yeah, obviously a lot of it came
from Coach Brooks. I mean who I was freshman year
is definitely not who I am right now. It's crazy,
but I would say, you know, like growing up in
the juniors, like and people wouldn't know this. I was
kind of known as just being like pesky d and
like passing fairly shot and I did it probably was
(08:57):
a bad shot, it just was not did not have
good form on like the national teams I played with,
like I would push the ball up the floor and
it was always a past space cut, so I would
just be space corner, hold in the corner, picking up
full court on defense. And even when I had a
little stint in China a couple of months ago, I
was face guarding. So it's like my role for that
is very different to like the American role I have.
(09:19):
But when I was in a program it was called
National Performance Program, it was like MPP. I think that
was maybe like fifteen. My coach Justin Shuler was like,
do you know why you got picked for that? I
was like, no, honestly, I have no clue. And he
was like, because you're one on one, like you have
a greadeability one on one to create space, and you know,
(09:40):
it was like, it's like a hooper. So I guess
that's kind of where it sparked from. And I didn't
really have much development in that, but I guess I
showed enough potential in that area and I think ever
since and it's just grown from there. Yeah.
Speaker 1 (09:52):
No, absolutely, And I think that's a big part you gream.
We're going to talk about too, with the isolation, because
again I think a lot of people know you for
you know, you know, can make three e's and a
big time in picking roll. But I think probably to me,
your biggest skill is what you do in isolation, Like
you're so good at being able to switch hunt, being
able to pick things out like that. And again, like
when you talk about where the game's at, where it's headed,
(10:13):
that's I mean, that's it going off that too, though,
Like you talked about with spending some time in China
with the national team, what was that experience like for you?
Because I didn't I was not able to get access
to the games. But I do know it was very
different for you in terms of role, like you mentioned,
so how was you know, what was that feeling out
processed like and kind of getting to go through that
(10:34):
and experience something different.
Speaker 2 (10:36):
Yeah, I mean it was great because first of all,
I mean you have head coach Sandy Brundello and her system,
and obviously the Liberty has been the team this season,
so it was kind of cool to like see that
and play that. But she obviously she didn't coach that
that trip. We had one of these systems coach. But
mind you, I'm playing with girls I grew up watching.
You know, we had Kayla George as championship has a ring.
(10:59):
I'm playing with Lauren Jackson. I grew up. Laura Jackson's
been an open longer than I've been alive, which is
pretty crazy. But to be with her and see how
she operates it was pretty sick. And I could go
on and on about the other girls that came on
that trip, But yeah, I knew going into it my
role was going to be so different than what it
is in college. You know, as you said, like the
Australian system, like you don't really see flashy stuff like
(11:22):
you do in college. It's very much run the plays
and use your strengths. And yeah, I was picking up
pretty much essentially full court. I was pushing the balls
quick as I could and transition and trying to hit
spotshots like. There wasn't much isolation, there wasn't much run
the play through the point guard like. It was very
team involved, and I loved that because I hadn't had
that in how many years I've had it. But it's
(11:44):
good because I think it was a good test to
me to see how I could fit and how I
could adjust to what another team required from me. I
know that who I have been in college is not
what I'm going to be in the pro. And maybe
I have the good skill sets to adjust to whatever
it's needed, but at least my mind is opened. It anthing.
I wasn't mad that the ball wasn't in my hand
for twenty two seconds before I had to make some
(12:06):
kind of shot, but yeah, like what, I guess it
taught me whatever is needed or whatever is required, like
I can very much mold into it. But like you said,
the games are hard to get because it was. It
was an experience for sure, Like what do you mean,
Like how so, Like I knew this too because I
spent some time in the junior Australian team. But like
(12:27):
you know, you go from college or you get your
ankles taped and you get adjusted pre game and you
get everything handed to you. Like no, we had to
tape our own ankles. We had to make sure everything
was fine. Or in China, they wouldn't really let us eat,
you know, foods that you would normally eat that weren't
like thoroughly cooked or so it's like different diets and
you're in the most rural part of China. At halftime,
everyone lights up their cigarettes and starts smoking and it's haze.
(12:50):
And we had like twelve girls on our team and
we all had three fouls. Like we won the first
two games, lost the last one. Because I'm just saying
the officiating which is a little different, but it's just crazy,
like just it's the adversity, like you have to just
cop it on the chin and keep going with the
national basketball teaches you was just gonna keep going like
(13:13):
it happens.
Speaker 3 (13:14):
Yeah, yeah, it's fever.
Speaker 1 (13:16):
Rules are different, man, Like it takes a lot of
getting used to for sure, But I mean that goes
right into the next part too, because, like you mentioned,
in terms of getting a feel for the next level,
I know that you took some time to really think
about that and what you wanted to do this this
coming year. And I mean, just as someone myself, like
I thought you were somebody you should be a lottery
pick if you went out this last year. So what
(13:39):
was I mean, what was decision making process like for
you in terms of figuring out what that was going
to look like? And I know, obviously if you were
going to come back, it was going to be with Kenny,
which understandable considering how much you guys gel and how
much you get better every year. But like, you know,
did you get any feedback on on what coming out
would look like? Did you you know, what was kind
of like figuring out like what it would look like
(13:59):
for you and what would make sense?
Speaker 2 (14:01):
Yeah, I mean I wasn't really listening to anybody. It
was me, And then that's why I took so long.
And obviously it's an uncharted territory for me because it's
just like so hard to think or feel how the
league works out, like coming out of college. I don't
really know, but I think the biggest thing for me is,
like I always knew with Coach Brooks, I was going
(14:21):
to get better, and I do think in some aspects
I can become more consistent, and I got to learn
how to play against women, like some of the moves
I do, like I gotta There's like little things, tiny
little things I got to get better at. But I
think my biggest jump that I want to take is intellectually.
And I think this is a great step for me
because as I said, I mean we said this off air,
(14:42):
but like the player coach role I kind of want
to step into, like I got to be able to
how to know how to convey messages to other people
as well as being confident in myself. So I think
it's a great opportunity this year to try and step
into U as much as a leader of I already was,
take it even bigger and take that responsibility and just
(15:03):
become smarter because not that I wasn't smart. I think
I made good plays last year and I think I
made good reads. But I think just the mental aspect
of the game is always somewhere where you can grow.
So yeah, that's that was the biggest advantage that I
could see staying.
Speaker 1 (15:18):
No absolutely, and I think that it's good to hear
because like I agree with you on a lot of
those aspects. Like you know, I think the next step
for you is continuing to grow in that mold and
like you know, making that extra ten percent, like okay,
if and we'll get into it, especially looking at your finishing,
like you took a huge leap this last year in
terms of you know, getting inside the arc and playing
with that, but I think there's an even higher level,
(15:40):
like if you take this, like okay, playing with pace
and getting into the mid range a little bit more
and working with that because I think again, so often
people think threes and layups and that's it. But like,
especially for you, I think being able to manipulate all
airs of the court is going to be so big
for yourself, but also opening up passing windows.
Speaker 2 (15:58):
And it's crazy too because growing up, like we would
talk key or three. Yeah, obviously key is lame, but
key or three And now the midrange game is coming
a massive comeback. You know, I'm watching the W Finals
and Corney Williams kills that she kills the mid range
so it's like, that's what I meant by consistency, Like
the mid range shouldn't just be like, oh, I can't
pass it, like let me just put it up like no,
(16:20):
Like midrange got to be like dead eye. So that's
definitely part of my game I'm trying to work on
right now.
Speaker 1 (16:26):
Definitely a couple more things for DA having a film,
What would you right now highlight as your biggest strengths
as a player.
Speaker 2 (16:35):
I would say, obviously my ability to get off shots
on the three point line, you know, my my explosiveness
that I have with that. But yeah, like pick and roll,
my ability to pass into the post. I think, you know,
watching a lot of games, like it's a it's an
important skill set getting the ball to the post at
the right time, in the right spot. And I probably
(16:57):
wouldn't have learned that if I didn't have Liz, you know,
so important to get that into her, so vital for
us to succeed when she had the ball. So I
would say, you know, passing specifically post passing, pick and
roll passing, but yeah, making sure it's on the exterior.
Speaker 1 (17:12):
And then you know, we've talked about some of it,
but in terms of biggest areas for growth through you
What are the things that you look at in this
year and obviously just moving forward in general that you
think are the biggest things that you need to keep
working on.
Speaker 2 (17:23):
Yeah, just mid range and floaters. I think you know,
I hit some mid range last year, but it wasn't
really the shot I was looking for, per se. But yeah,
I know that, you know, getting to the room is great,
but for longevity, like, I am sure, so I'm going
to have to learn how to get quick ones off
around the around the key and you know, keep defenders
on their toes for sure.
Speaker 3 (17:44):
Yeah, no, definitely.
Speaker 1 (17:45):
And lastly, I because I'm I want I was so
in the weed, so I was was talking me about
this the other day, like I normally get this to
like fifty clips on Synergy when I go through and
do my first run through and I have to get
down to half otherwise all be here for forever. I
cut out all the defense clips. I think you are
(18:06):
I want to hear what you think, but I think
you are a good defender. I know, like, yes, you
are five five five six, which is inherently like that's
something that you have to battle with as a pro right,
But I think you're pretty good getting around screens. Obviously
you play with a lot of functional strength, so much
of it is kind of like we're talking about with
offenses being able to you know, like watching. I mean
(18:27):
you mentioned the Links, like they're one of the best
teams I've ever seen at scram switching, and like, I
think that's going to be a big thing for you,
like being able to always find ways to be a
plus and hang in, you know, with with that.
Speaker 3 (18:39):
But where where do you feel yourself as a defender
right now?
Speaker 2 (18:42):
Yeah, I mean I would say cautious defender because as
I said, you know, when I went with my national team,
I was face guarding, I was picking up full court. Obviously,
fever was a differently put to hands. In the growing up,
I was doing the same thing, you know, picking up
full court, trying to be pesky. But I know my
team now needs me on the court, and I do
have that fire inside of me that I can be,
(19:03):
you know, pesky, but it comes with the risk of fouls.
And obviously, you know, defense, it's it's effort, Like everyone
can give a little more efforts, so I think, you know,
it's definitely a big part. I don't I know that
I'm capable, capable defender. I can be handsy at times,
I can make some good reads. But I think, you know,
it's the cautious aspect of it right now, because I
(19:25):
know that my team needs to be on the court,
not sitting on the bend for fouls. But you know,
as you said, like I'm five five five five six,
But but people don't know like this this summer, I
put on ten pounds of muscle, lost a bunch of weight,
but put on muscle. I've always been strong, short stature,
and I still have that foot speed. So I think
getting used, especially in SEC play is going to be
great for me defensively because these girls athletic and strong.
(19:49):
So it's going to be a good, good challenge for
me this year to step up and make smarter defensive plays,
not be the one that's always in someone's facing grill,
but be annoying enough to the point where your second
guess a decision making and like you said, like switches.
And I'm going to get caught sometimes this year against
someone who's bigger an athletic, but that's going to be
my life story for the rest of my career. So
(20:10):
it's like what am I going to do about it?
You know?
Speaker 1 (20:12):
Yeah, no, absolutely, I'm gonna be excited to watch that
because it's going to be yeah exactly you're talking about.
And I love pointing out, like you mentioned the h
the aspect of like being needing, like you have to
be on the court, like yeah, there's there's not a
scenario where it is okay for you to get into
foul trouble. So you know that has to come into
play with how you look at things, right, But let
me pull up the films we're gonna start. I want
(20:32):
to talk through some stuff with your shot because I think,
like we talked about, your shot is like I mean,
that is kind of the bread and butter of what
really starts things for you
Really excited to be joined on another episode of the
Film Room with Georgia aymore from I'm still not used
to saying University Kentucky yet, but she's coming to us
live from Lexington. Georgia, how are you doing.
Speaker 2 (00:12):
I'm good. You might be the first person to say that,
though I haven't done any media where they say Georgia
from the University of Kentucky.
Speaker 3 (00:18):
Sir, it's got it. I mean, it feels weird to me,
so I'm sure it feels even weirder to you.
Speaker 1 (00:23):
I can't really, you know, I've been trying to wrap
my head around it. But what has that been like
for you, kind of stepping on campus the last couple
of weeks and getting a feel for being in Lisnton.
Speaker 2 (00:33):
Yeah, I mean it's been It's been a challenge, but
it's been good. Obviously, any transfer is a challenge, regardless
if you're with your coach or not. But it's been
good because a bunch of new girls, new a new
area and new facility. So I'm just getting used to everything,
and you know, honestly, it's making time go quick. I
don't know if it's the senioritist or the change, but
it's already September at the end of September, and I
(00:54):
feel like I just got here in July, so it's gone.
Speaker 1 (00:57):
It's been a wild summer, and I'm even more while
for you, I'm sure, but like I have no idea
how like we're like a month and a week from
the season, which just doesn't feel real.
Speaker 3 (01:08):
Well, like you mentioned in terms.
Speaker 1 (01:09):
Of like obviously being a fifth year senior being here
with Kenny still kind of taking on more of I'm
sure you had one already as a leadership role last year,
but like I feel like it's an even higher level
this year. Right, there's you know we were talking about
before we hopped on, but like it is a very
different team. This is not like just bringing Virginia Tech
to Kentucky. So what has that been like? Obviously you're
(01:30):
somebody who's been in the system for your entire career,
kind of getting to showcase that to people who haven't
been in that.
Speaker 2 (01:35):
Yeah, I mean, definitely a challenge. But you know, when
I transferred to I said I wanted a challenge and
I'm going to get it all. This was probably the
least suspecting challenge I thought I was going to have
because I thought, you know, intellectually, I wasn't thinking, you know,
I'm going to have to teach, like I'm going to
have to be so confident in myself in this process
that I'm going to have to teach other people. And
I was just having this conversation. I mean, we bought
(01:57):
in people who were the best at their previous schools.
So now it's like, how we're going to make that gel,
how we're going to make that form. You know, some
people have never played at Coach Brooks's style pace, the
way he plays is very different to anyone else. So yeah,
it's been a challenge, but it's been good slowly getting
used to it. It was a bit rough the first
couple of days, but now we're an official practice and
(02:19):
people are getting used to it. People are picking up
on things. You know, even like Tiani Ki, like did
not have opportunities that you used, whether it be injury
or just because she wasn't being played, she has been phenomenal. Like,
it's just different how the different environments can can help
you know, project you And you know, I'm excited for
the season because we have great pieces being put together
(02:41):
right now.
Speaker 1 (02:41):
Yeah, No, I think that's such a great understanding too,
because exactly like you're saying, like obviously everything can kind
of play a part, but like just where you play
and how you get prioritized and how you fit in
matters so much. And I think that's what was fun
and watching the transfers come together because obviously we know
what you can do in Kenny system, but like you know,
I've watched Jordanoby for a couple of years and I
was like, because I think part of not saying you
(03:03):
guys are obviously still a very good team last year,
but I think, like you know, part of what was
tough is like you can't replace the Asia Greg, you
can't replace Taylor soul. Like having that kind of versatile
forward who really connects things and keeps things moving, like
I enjoying could really bring that this year, which is
going to be exciting. I wanted to ask you too
what you thought of Claris Silva so far.
Speaker 2 (03:23):
Unreal? Oh my gosh, Like it may have taken her
a week to get her feet under her rightfully so,
because you know jet lag different pace, physicality, but like
she's an elite level passer out of the post. Yeah,
and she's just so smooth. She never looks rush, she
never looks intimidated. I don't know what it is about
the European game, but she's coming pretty well prepped. Obviously,
(03:47):
she is still a freshman, so I'm sure she's going
to hit a little at some point or come game time,
you know it's going to be difficult. But I've been
so so impressed with her and the minute that she
gives some of that confidence or some of that cockiness,
like it's going to be level. But she has glimpses
of some really really good IQ plays and I just
don't think you get that often with freshmen coming in.
Speaker 1 (04:09):
Yeah, especially with the post, it's really hard to find
that so like and again talking about Kenny System, like
so much of it is like you gotta be. I
think that's one of the things that went underrated with
Liz last year, is like she really continued to improve
as somebody like could be like a hub of the offense.
Make those plays something be fascinating to watch that continue
to grow with Clara Squared. Yeah, but you know, going
(04:31):
off that too, I think that's one of the things
that I'm like most interested to talk about, and obviously
we'll dive into it in film a little bit, but like,
of course there's the aspect of just like and probably
most importantly, like I mean, even and Liz were tight,
and like seeing that injury obviously sucks, right, you know
there's not anything you can do about it, but in
terms of what that did for your play and how
(04:51):
much that impacted things for you, and also moving forward,
like having to learn just completely new screening partners after
that's what was your bread and butter for four and
a half years.
Speaker 3 (05:01):
You know, like, what has that been like so far?
Speaker 1 (05:04):
Kind of getting a grasp on that because I mean,
just watching again, going back and watching the last four games,
I was like, Jesus, this is like it felt like
you were storming the beaches of Normandy every time you ran.
So it was like, you know, what has that process
been like for you? And kind of getting accustomed to that.
Speaker 2 (05:19):
Yeah, I mean with Liz and I, like everyone knew
the two man game was coming. You just simply couldn't
stop it because we had so many options and I
didn't realize it up until I started working at Kentucky
with these other posts. Like Liz was so good at
kind of manipulating what she wanted that it made me
think I was dimes and vice versa, because maybe she
didn't want to like beat up in the post, so
she would come and set a baseline screen, or she
(05:40):
would set a middle screen so she could have an
easy jumper. Right now, I think, you know, Clara Strack
kind of sitting behind Liz and watching that this year,
Like I'm trying to put the confidence into her, like
I read you just as much as you read me,
Like it's okay to demand the ball, It's okay to
like screen and want to roll or want to pop
(06:01):
to the three like you just you control me as
much as I can control you. And I think that
might be difficult for someone young like her for seeing
me a fifth year who you know, I mean, we
excelled and pick and roll last year, so it might
be intimidating trying to step into that position. I don't
want to say replaced because Claire and lives are different,
but it's kind of still the same action. So building
(06:22):
confidence in that, and that's only going to happen with experience,
Like we can watch as much film as we can,
but unless we're talking about it and working on a
daily it's not going to happen. And you know, even
with Clara Silver, she rolls differently, she has her difference
words that she likes, and and Tianni Ki, you know,
I've been doing a bit of pick and pop with her.
You know, sometimes she goes to the three. So it's
(06:42):
I got to be really in tune with who was
screening me, what they want. It's a lot more challenging
because Liz, it was we just ready to like a book.
Now it's like I got three other people screening me,
and now it's like they're all so different. So that's
been like fun to watch a during practices. But yeah,
(07:03):
I mean it's obviously a vital pot about offense. I
see how it evolves this year.
Speaker 1 (07:09):
Yeah, yeah, and I'm excited for that too, because, like
you mentioned, I think so much of the last two
years has been you growing and evolving as a point guard.
Speaker 3 (07:17):
Right, And like I think so much more.
Speaker 1 (07:20):
Goes into being a point guard than just like, you.
Speaker 3 (07:22):
Know, being able to pass the ball.
Speaker 1 (07:23):
It's like, you know, you got you got to be
able to like set things and get people in the
right spots. And I think, especially now, like you're talking about,
like I think that's kind of going to be the
biggest growing stage, who was like, all right, how can
I become not just somebody who's really able to create,
but like, all right, I settle things down, I get things,
you know, facilitated, I get things moving where they need to,
because that's just I mean, that's the hardest part to
(07:45):
grow in as a as a playmaker, right, So it's
going to be really fun to watch that for you.
I wanted to ask too, kind of going off that
I know I've heard you talk a lot about like
just how.
Speaker 3 (07:56):
Different Australia's development system is.
Speaker 1 (07:58):
And obviously, I mean it's something I'm a I was
talking about with Georgia Woollie the other day from Syracuse,
and I like, obviously people can realize like, okay, it's
not AAU, but also I think it's just very different
in terms of how it teaches fundamentals and builds players
base up. Well that's what's so interesting because like, obviously,
if i'd never heard your accent before, I wouldn't have
known you were an Australian Guard because you very much
(08:20):
do not play like a lot of other Australian Guards.
And I feel like, obviously part of that is Kenny
and being able to work with him. But where did
that kind of first get instilled in you, because again,
like the movement, the off drible shot making is not
like a typical you know what you're seeing from the
Australian Guard.
Speaker 2 (08:36):
Yeah for sure. Yeah, obviously a lot of it came
from Coach Brooks. I mean who I was freshman year
is definitely not who I am right now. It's crazy,
but I would say, you know, like growing up in
the juniors, like and people wouldn't know this. I was
kind of known as just being like pesky d and
like passing fairly shot and I did it probably was
(08:57):
a bad shot, it just was not did not have
good form on like the national teams I played with,
like I would push the ball up the floor and
it was always a past space cut, so I would
just be space corner, hold in the corner, picking up
full court on defense. And even when I had a
little stint in China a couple of months ago, I
was face guarding. So it's like my role for that
is very different to like the American role I have.
(09:19):
But when I was in a program it was called
National Performance Program, it was like MPP. I think that
was maybe like fifteen. My coach Justin Shuler was like,
do you know why you got picked for that? I
was like, no, honestly, I have no clue. And he
was like, because you're one on one, like you have
a greadeability one on one to create space, and you know,
(09:40):
it was like, it's like a hooper. So I guess
that's kind of where it sparked from. And I didn't
really have much development in that, but I guess I
showed enough potential in that area and I think ever
since and it's just grown from there. Yeah.
Speaker 1 (09:52):
No, absolutely, And I think that's a big part you gream.
We're going to talk about too, with the isolation, because
again I think a lot of people know you for
you know, you know, can make three e's and a
big time in picking roll. But I think probably to me,
your biggest skill is what you do in isolation, Like
you're so good at being able to switch hunt, being
able to pick things out like that. And again, like
when you talk about where the game's at, where it's headed,
(10:13):
that's I mean, that's it going off that too, though,
Like you talked about with spending some time in China
with the national team, what was that experience like for you?
Because I didn't I was not able to get access
to the games. But I do know it was very
different for you in terms of role, like you mentioned,
so how was you know, what was that feeling out
processed like and kind of getting to go through that
(10:34):
and experience something different.
Speaker 2 (10:36):
Yeah, I mean it was great because first of all,
I mean you have head coach Sandy Brundello and her system,
and obviously the Liberty has been the team this season,
so it was kind of cool to like see that
and play that. But she obviously she didn't coach that
that trip. We had one of these systems coach. But
mind you, I'm playing with girls I grew up watching.
You know, we had Kayla George as championship has a ring.
(10:59):
I'm playing with Lauren Jackson. I grew up. Laura Jackson's
been an open longer than I've been alive, which is
pretty crazy. But to be with her and see how
she operates it was pretty sick. And I could go
on and on about the other girls that came on
that trip, But yeah, I knew going into it my
role was going to be so different than what it
is in college. You know, as you said, like the
Australian system, like you don't really see flashy stuff like
(11:22):
you do in college. It's very much run the plays
and use your strengths. And yeah, I was picking up
pretty much essentially full court. I was pushing the balls
quick as I could and transition and trying to hit
spotshots like. There wasn't much isolation, there wasn't much run
the play through the point guard like. It was very
team involved, and I loved that because I hadn't had
that in how many years I've had it. But it's
(11:44):
good because I think it was a good test to
me to see how I could fit and how I
could adjust to what another team required from me. I
know that who I have been in college is not
what I'm going to be in the pro. And maybe
I have the good skill sets to adjust to whatever
it's needed, but at least my mind is opened. It anthing.
I wasn't mad that the ball wasn't in my hand
for twenty two seconds before I had to make some
(12:06):
kind of shot, but yeah, like what, I guess it
taught me whatever is needed or whatever is required, like
I can very much mold into it. But like you said,
the games are hard to get because it was. It
was an experience for sure, Like what do you mean,
Like how so, Like I knew this too because I
spent some time in the junior Australian team. But like
(12:27):
you know, you go from college or you get your
ankles taped and you get adjusted pre game and you
get everything handed to you. Like no, we had to
tape our own ankles. We had to make sure everything
was fine. Or in China, they wouldn't really let us eat,
you know, foods that you would normally eat that weren't
like thoroughly cooked or so it's like different diets and
you're in the most rural part of China. At halftime,
everyone lights up their cigarettes and starts smoking and it's haze.
(12:50):
And we had like twelve girls on our team and
we all had three fouls. Like we won the first
two games, lost the last one. Because I'm just saying
the officiating which is a little different, but it's just crazy,
like just it's the adversity, like you have to just
cop it on the chin and keep going with the
national basketball teaches you was just gonna keep going like
(13:13):
it happens.
Speaker 3 (13:14):
Yeah, yeah, it's fever.
Speaker 1 (13:16):
Rules are different, man, Like it takes a lot of
getting used to for sure, But I mean that goes
right into the next part too, because, like you mentioned,
in terms of getting a feel for the next level,
I know that you took some time to really think
about that and what you wanted to do this this
coming year. And I mean, just as someone myself, like
I thought you were somebody you should be a lottery
pick if you went out this last year. So what
(13:39):
was I mean, what was decision making process like for
you in terms of figuring out what that was going
to look like? And I know, obviously if you were
going to come back, it was going to be with Kenny,
which understandable considering how much you guys gel and how
much you get better every year. But like, you know,
did you get any feedback on on what coming out
would look like? Did you you know, what was kind
of like figuring out like what it would look like
(13:59):
for you and what would make sense?
Speaker 2 (14:01):
Yeah, I mean I wasn't really listening to anybody. It
was me, And then that's why I took so long.
And obviously it's an uncharted territory for me because it's
just like so hard to think or feel how the
league works out, like coming out of college. I don't
really know, but I think the biggest thing for me is,
like I always knew with Coach Brooks, I was going
(14:21):
to get better, and I do think in some aspects
I can become more consistent, and I got to learn
how to play against women, like some of the moves
I do, like I gotta There's like little things, tiny
little things I got to get better at. But I
think my biggest jump that I want to take is intellectually.
And I think this is a great step for me
because as I said, I mean we said this off air,
(14:42):
but like the player coach role I kind of want
to step into, like I got to be able to
how to know how to convey messages to other people
as well as being confident in myself. So I think
it's a great opportunity this year to try and step
into U as much as a leader of I already was,
take it even bigger and take that responsibility and just
(15:03):
become smarter because not that I wasn't smart. I think
I made good plays last year and I think I
made good reads. But I think just the mental aspect
of the game is always somewhere where you can grow.
So yeah, that's that was the biggest advantage that I
could see staying.
Speaker 1 (15:18):
No absolutely, and I think that it's good to hear
because like I agree with you on a lot of
those aspects. Like you know, I think the next step
for you is continuing to grow in that mold and
like you know, making that extra ten percent, like okay,
if and we'll get into it, especially looking at your finishing,
like you took a huge leap this last year in
terms of you know, getting inside the arc and playing
with that, but I think there's an even higher level,
(15:40):
like if you take this, like okay, playing with pace
and getting into the mid range a little bit more
and working with that because I think again, so often
people think threes and layups and that's it. But like,
especially for you, I think being able to manipulate all
airs of the court is going to be so big
for yourself, but also opening up passing windows.
Speaker 2 (15:58):
And it's crazy too because growing up, like we would
talk key or three. Yeah, obviously key is lame, but
key or three And now the midrange game is coming
a massive comeback. You know, I'm watching the W Finals
and Corney Williams kills that she kills the mid range
so it's like, that's what I meant by consistency, Like
the mid range shouldn't just be like, oh, I can't
pass it, like let me just put it up like no,
(16:20):
Like midrange got to be like dead eye. So that's
definitely part of my game I'm trying to work on
right now.
Speaker 1 (16:26):
Definitely a couple more things for DA having a film,
What would you right now highlight as your biggest strengths
as a player.
Speaker 2 (16:35):
I would say, obviously my ability to get off shots
on the three point line, you know, my my explosiveness
that I have with that. But yeah, like pick and roll,
my ability to pass into the post. I think, you know,
watching a lot of games, like it's a it's an
important skill set getting the ball to the post at
the right time, in the right spot. And I probably
(16:57):
wouldn't have learned that if I didn't have Liz, you know,
so important to get that into her, so vital for
us to succeed when she had the ball. So I
would say, you know, passing specifically post passing, pick and
roll passing, but yeah, making sure it's on the exterior.
Speaker 1 (17:12):
And then you know, we've talked about some of it,
but in terms of biggest areas for growth through you
What are the things that you look at in this
year and obviously just moving forward in general that you
think are the biggest things that you need to keep
working on.
Speaker 2 (17:23):
Yeah, just mid range and floaters. I think you know,
I hit some mid range last year, but it wasn't
really the shot I was looking for, per se. But yeah,
I know that, you know, getting to the room is great,
but for longevity, like, I am sure, so I'm going
to have to learn how to get quick ones off
around the around the key and you know, keep defenders
on their toes for sure.
Speaker 3 (17:44):
Yeah, no, definitely.
Speaker 1 (17:45):
And lastly, I because I'm I want I was so
in the weed, so I was was talking me about
this the other day, like I normally get this to
like fifty clips on Synergy when I go through and
do my first run through and I have to get
down to half otherwise all be here for forever. I
cut out all the defense clips. I think you are
(18:06):
I want to hear what you think, but I think
you are a good defender. I know, like, yes, you
are five five five six, which is inherently like that's
something that you have to battle with as a pro right,
But I think you're pretty good getting around screens. Obviously
you play with a lot of functional strength, so much
of it is kind of like we're talking about with
offenses being able to you know, like watching. I mean
(18:27):
you mentioned the Links, like they're one of the best
teams I've ever seen at scram switching, and like, I
think that's going to be a big thing for you,
like being able to always find ways to be a
plus and hang in, you know, with with that.
Speaker 3 (18:39):
But where where do you feel yourself as a defender
right now?
Speaker 2 (18:42):
Yeah, I mean I would say cautious defender because as
I said, you know, when I went with my national team,
I was face guarding, I was picking up full court. Obviously,
fever was a differently put to hands. In the growing up,
I was doing the same thing, you know, picking up
full court, trying to be pesky. But I know my
team now needs me on the court, and I do
have that fire inside of me that I can be,
(19:03):
you know, pesky, but it comes with the risk of fouls.
And obviously, you know, defense, it's it's effort, Like everyone
can give a little more efforts, so I think, you know,
it's definitely a big part. I don't I know that
I'm capable, capable defender. I can be handsy at times,
I can make some good reads. But I think, you know,
it's the cautious aspect of it right now, because I
(19:25):
know that my team needs to be on the court,
not sitting on the bend for fouls. But you know,
as you said, like I'm five five five five six,
But but people don't know like this this summer, I
put on ten pounds of muscle, lost a bunch of weight,
but put on muscle. I've always been strong, short stature,
and I still have that foot speed. So I think
getting used, especially in SEC play is going to be
great for me defensively because these girls athletic and strong.
(19:49):
So it's going to be a good, good challenge for
me this year to step up and make smarter defensive plays,
not be the one that's always in someone's facing grill,
but be annoying enough to the point where your second
guess a decision making and like you said, like switches.
And I'm going to get caught sometimes this year against
someone who's bigger an athletic, but that's going to be
my life story for the rest of my career. So
(20:10):
it's like what am I going to do about it?
You know?
Speaker 1 (20:12):
Yeah, no, absolutely, I'm gonna be excited to watch that
because it's going to be yeah exactly you're talking about.
And I love pointing out, like you mentioned the h
the aspect of like being needing, like you have to
be on the court, like yeah, there's there's not a
scenario where it is okay for you to get into
foul trouble. So you know that has to come into
play with how you look at things, right, But let
me pull up the films we're gonna start. I want
(20:32):
to talk through some stuff with your shot because I think,
like we talked about, your shot is like I mean,
that is kind of the bread and butter of what
really starts things for you
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