Troy University Athletics
Trojans Hit Court Full Speed
10/19/2009 9:30:00 PM | Basketball (W)
TROY, Ala. - The Troy University women's basketball team hit the court full speed on Monday, their third full workout since the NCAA-mandated practice allowance began on Friday.
"I am encouraged about the start of the season thus far," Troy head coach Michael Murphy said. "It is still early in the process and we are a little banged up. We only have 12 players in uniform and two of those are injured right now."
The Trojans return seven letterwinners from a program that finished tied for second in the East Division, and was awarded the fourth seed overall in the conference tournament based on tiebreakers. They also welcome five new players in uniform, hoping to replace the four seniors (Kylie Morrissy, Larelle Roper, Danielle Realph and Staci Mitchell) from last season.
Seniors Alyce Shearing and Brittnie Davis return for their final year of eligibility, as does Lucy Lindley, and the Trojans will be relying on those three for leadership throughout the season and in practice sessions. Troy also welcomes back its second-leading scorer and leading rebounder, Donette McNair, from last season.
Although the Trojans have the seven returning letterwinners, they will rely on youth at this stage in the season.
"We have good leadership," Murphy said. "The new people are going to have to be productive for us. Since we have people injured, everyone is taking a lot of reps. It is good in a way, but for us it causes fatigue because we don't stand around a lot. But I do like our team chemistry at this point. The new people are just going to have to come in and produce right away."
One thing that Murphy pointed out in practice was the team's work ethic.
"I like their work ethic," Murphy said. "Today was no different than the first two days, they worked hard. The veterans are stepping up and talking, as well as encouraging the younger players. They are working hard everyday."
The Trojans will be part of the Sun Belt Conference Media Days on Wednesday morning at 11:00, and will also be conducting their annual Troy Basketball Media Days at the Courtyard by Marriott on Monday (October 26). They open the season on the road on November 13 against the defending SEC champion Auburn Tigers at Beard-Eaves-Memorial Coliseum. The first home for the Trojans will be November 24 against Longwood (Va.) University.
The team will be off tomorrow, but will resume practice at 2:30 pm on Wednesday afternoon. The Trojans will hit the court again on Thursday (7 pm) and on Friday (2:15 pm). Practices are generally open to the public.
For ticket information, contact the Troy University Athletics Ticket Office at 1-877-878-WINS (9467).
