Let's start with guard: Whalen will most likely go with a three-guard starting lineup that includes Scalia, Jasmine Powell and Gadiva Hubbard. Behind them is Alexia Smith, a sophomore who played extensively last season and looks stronger this season; Katie Borowicz, who got a jump-start on her career by joining the team mid-way through last season; fellow sophomore Carolina Strande and graduate transfer Deja Winters. Whalen singled out Winters when asked who has had a strong camp. A strong, physical 5-11, Winters looks very good on defense and has shown she's able to hit shots. Plus she's an experienced player.
And now in the post: Kadi Sissoko will be a fourth starter, and her taking a big jump from last year will be key to the Gophers this season. The competition to start at center will be intense. Junior Klarke Sconiers has improved her defense to go with her post offense. Kayla Mershon showed how valuable she could be in the rotation last season. Add to that 6-5 transfer Bailey Helgren, who has been very strong defensively. Also in the post? Laura Bagwell-Katalinich, sophomore Erin Hedman, Micheaux and junior Grace Cumming.
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