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| Adrienne Motley(23) will look to explode onto the national scene this season(Photo Credit: AP) |
Written By: Nathan Skinner
Canes Rising Contributor
Last season didn't end the way Katie Meier and the 'Canes wanted, with a loss to Stetson in the first round of the WNIT. The fact that making the WNIT was seen as somewhat disappointing is an indication of how far this program has come under Meier. Before last season, the 'Canes had been to three consecutive NCAA tournaments, with second round appearances in two of those years. Fans were treated to the best stretch in program history, led by Shenise Johnson and Riquna Williams. Those glory days may be returning after a short hiatus, for the 'Canes are a talented team with a budding star in Adrienne Motley.
Backcourt
This team will go as far as Adrienne Motley takes them. Motley is a player that can score in bunches, and is exciting to watch. She had an outstanding freshman season, leading the team in scoring at 11 points per game. Her superlative play landed her a spot on the All-ACC Rookie Team. Fans should expect Motley to be a contender for All-ACC honors this season, she's that talented. Motley isn't the only exciting guard on the roster. Suriya McGuire is an athletic player who has struggled with consistency, but has the tools to be extraordinary. McGuire was 4th on the team in scoring last year, averaging over 9 points per game. She benefits most from Meier's aggressive defensive philosophy, due to her athleticism, and her ability to create easy points on fast breaks. This backcourt isn't a two woman show, as this unit is very deep. Players like Jessica Thomas and Michelle Woods will battle for playing time, and should make a significant contribution. Thomas had some impressive moments at the point last year, that experience should pay dividends this season. Woods is an upperclassman who came in with much fanfare, but was seriously injured in a 2013 automobile accident which kept her off the floor last season. Nigia Greene and Laura Quevedo are two players who may be the odd players out. Quevedo is a first year player from Madrid, Spain who played well in international competition.
Frontcourt
During Katie Meier's tenure, the front court has been undersized, as Meier has depended on smaller, quicker players to create havoc in the open court. This reliance on smaller players has led to an inability to rebound, and an inability to score in the post. This year, the 'Canes shouldn't have a problem scoring in the post, because Keyona Hayes can score in the painted area. Hayes, a player who came on strong towards the end of last season, averaged 10.5 points per game, with 6.5 rebounds. If Hayes can continue her development, Katie Meier may have her first elite low post threat. Jassany Williams is a solid rebounder, and defender who brings maturity and leadership to the unit. A big question entering the season is whether the two highly touted freshmen can find their way into the rotation. Khaila Prather, and Erykah Davenport are two players who may end up earning significant playing time early in their careers.
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