It happens all the time... especially with coaching changes. I'd be shocked to learn it never happened with any of our previous three staffs. SURELY all those that we lost in prior years didn't just fly the coop willingly.
Just said the same thing a few minutes ago speaking with a friend. However... most of the successful coaches are.
That's too bad about Celeste. She played so hard all the time; sometimes too hard on defense I'm sure she has her reasons for wanting a change. No doubt she was a huge reason for our post-season success; she'll be missed by the fans for sure.
If I were to keep an eye on some players with previous interest/connections to Texas, I would list the following (even though none are in the transfer portal as of this minute, and might never be): - Deja Kelly (North Carolina) - Jordyn Merritt (Florida) - Taylor Jones (Oregon State) - Endyia Rogers (Southern Cal) - Desiree Caldwell (Southern Cal) - Priscilla Williams (Syracuse) - Jade Williams (Duke) I'm sure there are more out there, but my mind is already tired today . . .
I’m taken back by Taylor leaving. She got all the playing time when not hurt. It’s understandable when a player is not a core player. Not so much in Taylor’s situation. An experienced 2 guard is mandatory now. I agree this team will look entirely different. We’re losing our point guard, two guard, and center. Now I’m not sure who else. Now lots more room for MState transfers.
I didn’t mean that as a knock on Vic at all. I hope it wasn’t taken that way. It’s an every year occurrence with every team I can recall. This is a business.....and to clarify my statement Celeste is not one of the players Vic told to leave.
Kid played her heart out for us. She transfers to an East Coast team, then we know it wasn't personal. We're more than happy to hope that MSU transfers land here, so fair is fair. Still, ack! Thanks Celeste!
I’m sorry for us that Celeste is moving on but totally understand her desire to be closer to family. Wish her all the best.
I see that Baylor is not immune. DeDe Richards and Carrington have entered their names in the transfer portal.
Maybe. But, I get the feeling a lot of players out there will end up transferring to schools closer to home. Of course, players who have both a connection to Vic and the state of Texas might really increase our chances.
I thought they were draft eligible so I was surprised when the notification about them entering the transfer portal popped up. I can’t find it now so perhaps it was in error and removed.
You were right, they were all (Charli, Smith & Egbo) in the same class, Charli is just slightly older - I think she turns 22 in September.
Confusion is understandable, due to the pandemic, all players had to declare by Wednesday or Thursday if they were entering the draft. Normally only early entrants have to ‘declare’.
The first half of next season may be rough or even ugly as some kind if cohesion ids formed. Remember all arm chair coaches, ths is a marathon.
Exactly. I personally am not worried about it. The new players that we know of coming in have no Div I experience. I expect a bumpy road in the beginning. This year was all about laying a foundation, setting expectations, infusing a style of play, and sifting through the roster... all the while trying to be the best we could throughout the process. The fact that we advanced to the Elite 8 was a huge plus that nobody saw coming. Next year, with whomever is on our roster, the real rebuild begins. I'm here for it!
I’m so bummed about Celeste. She’s been my favorite player since her freshman season and I immediately started calling her “my girl”. I wish her all the best and look forward to watching her play NOT against Texas
Wow, some news about Celeste...guess Daddy was REALLY here to pack up the Uhaul and drive 'em back to NY! Bada boom! Good luck, Celeste!
Would give us that veteran pg presence we will definitely need. She had a breakout year this season and I for sure thought she was going to enter the draft