March 30, 2011
When the Terrapins first took the court in October, it was unknown which player would play what role for the young and hungry team. With six freshmen, four sophomores and four juniors, the future was bright with potential and tons of talent.
"As a team we were such an unknown quantity when the season started. Almost every player on our roster had to grow into their roles this season - even our juniors who did a lot of that last season, but still had more room to develop. It was great watching each and every one of them evolve over the course of the season," head coach Brenda Frese said.
With no seniors, the juniors had to take on the leadership roles. Anjale Barrett, Lynetta Kizer and Kim Rodgers all took turns leading in different situations and moments, vocally and through their actions.
"I think of how Anjale Barrett got herself in better shape before the season started and became our starting point guard and someone who could play more minutes. Her assist to turnover ratio in the ACC was very good. In many of the bigger games we won, she played a vital role. That's growth," Frese said.
"Lynetta Kizer had a stretch where she really became our vocal leader and was giving us terrific performances. I'm not sure she was as ready to do that last season. She really grew not just as a player, but also as a person."
"We know what kind of player Kim Rodgers is, and she's always been able to, when you look at the history of her play, hit timely shots," Frese said. "She wants the pressure. She is a leader because she continues to step up and do big things."
Through hard-fought wins at Purdue, Virginia and Georgia Tech, the Terrapins continued to put the pieces together. Freshmen, sophomores and juniors each took turns stepping up when their numbers were called.
"I think of our freshmen and what their experience was like. I think our fans saw Laurin Mincy really start to grow towards the end of the season. It's easy for people to forget that she was coming off an injury and hadn't played in a year. She has an exciting future ahead of her, as do our other freshmen," Frese said.
As the season went on the the team got into the thick of conference play, ACC Rookie of the Year Alyssa Thomas got stronger and more comfortable at the collegiate level. Her numbers doubled in league play and her competitiveness and leadership abilities came along with them.
"What more can I say about what Alyssa Thomas meant to our team? She's without question one of the toughest and most competitive players I've ever coached. She's superior in so many ways, especially her motor. She was constantly diving on the floor and crashing into courtside to help us win," Frese said.
Check back Friday for the next part of the Terps' season review!
