Lady Vols Basketball
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Shekinna Stricklen’s cheering section couldn’t wait to start gathering.
About 20 family members were a day early, showing up for Tennessee’s women’s basketball practice on Saturday.
By Sunday, the junior forward’s crowd had grown to perhaps 70 by her count for an SEC game against Arkansas. Some of her mother’s family had traveled from as far away as Kansas City.
“I was nervous,’’ said Stricklen, who was born in Conway, Ark., and grew up in Morrilton. “I really don’t know why. It went away as soon as the game started.”
Her self-appraisal was as accurate as her shooting. From the first jumper, it was showtime for Stricklen’s family, friends and the rest of the 6,149 in attendance at Bud Walton Arena. She scored 26 points, matching her career high, and set a new personal standard with six 3-pointers, leading Tennessee to a 72-53 victory.
She needed just 15 shots to reach those marks, connecting on 10. She was 6 for 9 from long range.
“I think everybody in her hometown was here,’’ UT coach Pat Summitt said. “Sometimes players won’t play as well, but I think Stricklen was liking it.”
Although Stricklen took up a lot of space, three others squeezed into the scoring spotlight for No. 5 Tennessee (21-2, 9-0 SEC). Guard Taber Spani scored 18 points and tied her career high with three treys, helping cover for senior sharpshooter Angie Bjorklund, who missed her second consecutive game with a foot injury.
Glory Johnson scored 12 points and grabbed a game-high 14 rebounds for her third consecutive double-double.
Kamiko Williams scored 10 points for the second straight game, thereby minimizing fellow point guard Meighan Simmons’ scoreless effort.
Sarah Watkins led Arkansas (16-5, 4-5) with 15 points.
Arkansas guard Lyndsay Harris suggested that the Razorbacks had been in a homecoming situation before and intended to enforce Stricklen crowd control. The plan broke down early, though, as she hit her first four shots and had 18 points by halftime, tying her previous season best for an entire game.
“We don’t want them going off and getting confidence from the crowd or their family,’’ Harris said. “I feel like we kind of overlooked her. She changed positions this year. She hasn’t been really leading the team, but she went off on us.”
Arkansas coach Tom Collen said the Razorbacks didn’t underestimate Stricklen. Instead, they were playing the percentages, noting that Stricklen’s 3-point profile (14 for 48, 29.2 percent beforehand) didn’t stand out among her teammates.
“I don’t think that we overlooked her,’’ Collen said. “When you look at them statistically, they have so many players who can step up and score.
“She is not one of their better 3-point shooters, statistically speaking. In a lot of those situations she passes those 3s up.
This situation was different, however, not only for Stricklen, but the Lady Vols. Center Kelley Cain (zero points, two rebounds) still wasn’t her usual self after missing Thursday’s game against Mississippi State with the flu. She lapsed into early foul trouble. Arkansas’ zone defense also was denying the foul lane, where UT scored just six points in the first half.
“The (outside) shots were open,’’ Spani said. “When we started hitting the first shots, that always helps your confidence. From then on, I think, the more we hit, the more we felt good about it.”
With Watkins out with foul trouble, Spani and Stricklen combined to swish three consecutive jumpers for a 39-27 halftime lead.
When the Razorbacks rallied to within 41-37 early in the second half, Spani was fouled on a 3-point attempt and converted three free throws. UT then scored three straight baskets at the rim.
Stricklen’s cheering section gave her a hearty sendoff when she was pulled with 1:33 left. Later, Collen gave her a nod of respect.
“It’s a hard thing to watch; she’s a great player,’’ he said. “Wish we had her
Oregon sends Lady Vols home from…
Scripps Interactive Newspapers Group
Comments » 38
RoadTrip writes:
Shekinna showed those homies how to play b-ball today! Good win for the LV's.
volfaninbuckeyeland writes:
Funny, I don't recall that loss to Baylor as going into overtime.
UTVOLSRROCKN writes:
Great game Strick! Happy that you did it in your home state. Spani and Johnson continue to impress. Keep it going Lady Vols! There is no reason that you should not go undefeated in the SEC! GLV!
Einstein writes:
The Baylor loss did not go into overtime. We got whacked over the head big time.
Einstein writes:
What has happened to Meighan Simmons' shooting. We need Meighan for tournament play. I hope Vicky Baugh is starting to improve health wise since we need her also. Stricklen, Johnson, Cain, Spani and Williams are playing lights out and we need to continue. The NCAA tournament is wide open now [Tennessee, Connecticut, Baylor, A&M, Xavier, etc.)
volfaninbuckeyeland writes:
I had really wanted to watch this game, but it was only available in my area on ESPNFC for $79, and my satellite internet will not support ESPN3. Can anyone tell me if these bb games were included with the ESPN Gameplan package that was available during football season? Thanks
12Hours writes:
Vol in buckeye,
Sorry you couldn't watch the game!
I can't help you with ESPN Gameplan info, but I do want to share this with all LV fans.
There were questions earlier about what channels were ths SEC Network channels. Here's a link to a list of them
http://www.utladyvols.com/sports/w-ba...
Also, I hope all who can't watch the game are aware you can listen to them via your computer at the UTLadyVols site
Click on the schedule and on the speaker icon at the end of the game listing
johnlg00 writes:
I feel ya, buddy! In my area, the culprit was the local CW affiliate that carries the SEC Network. The local paper's sports section, the TV grids, AND the on-screen program guide on cable ALL said the game would be on, but what did they show instead? A "700 Club" telethon! I wound up listening to the game on the Lady Vol website. Some time this week I am going to jump on that local station!
At least as common an occurrence is for NONE of the media sources to mention a game and it IS on. That is how I ACCIDENTALLY got to watch the men's game with LSU last week, i.e., just by clicking on the channel, fully expecting that I would have to listen to it over the internet. The rarest occurrence of all is that the other sources say a game is on and it actually is on.
johnlg00 writes:
(Media rant mode off) As for the game, it sounded (grrr!) as if Shekinna really put on a show for the homefolks. Even so, DARN those stupid turnovers! A couple of times, Mickey said, "I can't imagine who she was throwing THAT one to." Are some of the girls hallucinating on the court, imagining they see teammates who aren't there? Perish the thought, but it sometimes looks that way in the games I HAVE seen!
springtx_vol writes:
The last two weekend Lady Vol games have been on ESPN Gameplan.
manoffewwords writes:
What would happen if we had 6,149 in TB for a LV BB game?
usnavyvolfaninva_still_getting_paid writes:
Wasn't too long ago that the men were lucky to get that many...my how times have changed.
huntined#565710 writes:
Cain was not ready to play today and Simmons had a really bad shooting-TURN OVER day. At times she looks like A BULL IN A CHINA SHOP!! Brewer is not back and may not get fully back this year. Glad to see other players step up with Angie out.
manoffewwords writes:
You are correct. Thanks Bruce.
UTVOLSRROCKN writes:
To John and 12Hours...I have found that the audio on that Lady Vols site is terrible. The last game I tried to listen to, they had the Bruce Pearl show playing in the background, and most of the time the audio skips, comes and goes.
If you go to Yahoo Sports, it will show a little audio sign beside the game. Click on it and you will be able to hear the audio without any skips or gaps. It is soooo much better! On some games, they have a video icon that you can click on and watch the game. Hope that helps.
volfaninbuckeyeland writes:
Thanks guys & gals for the media tips for listening to or watching the games. I had tried the audio on the LV site but for some reason it wasn't working for me. Resorted to watching the Gametracker version--was at least better than the blog. For years, I used my sister's address in Hixson for my Dish subscription address, but when they added the local channels and I subscribed to Wildblue internet, I was forced to use my actual address and as a result, all the sports programming was then regionalized. Very frustrating for a BO fan whose limited entertainment is primarily a visit to the KFC buffet (which is not available where I live) and watching the Vols & LVols. Got to see the last NC squad play for the regional championship in Dayton and love to watch 'em on TV every chance I get. These ladies have always represented TN so admirably and usually give us something to cheer about every time they take the court. Although this group is missing the single dominant player (aka Candace), I believe they have the ingredients to win it all.
volfan73120#211815 writes:
That would be ESPN Full Court.
MajorMustard writes:
I too got the 700 club telethon but was able to see video on ESPN3.com thank goodness. This is turning out to be an interesting season. So glad to see Strick and Glory evolve.
PINK_CHAMPAGNE writes:
Congrats lady vols on the win! Stricklen was great, as well as Spani, Glory and Kamiko. I need to give Kamiko credit for this game. She really stepped up and played a good game. Kamiko is capable and I hope she continues this type of play. She did a good job of running the team today. Spani is doing a good job in Angie's spot. Glory continues to be a workhorse. It is always a pleasure to see Vicki experience any type of success on the court. Those two moves she made to the basket when she scored her points, were visions of the old Vicki! Brewer still needs more work! If we can get Vicki healthy enough to offer more time on the court, it would be great. Cain wasn't ready today! Simmons most definitely wasn't ready today!
adimatteo#261830 writes:
congrats ladies, great job, glad for you all, another win.
Keep it up, stay healthy...
johnlg00 writes:
Always glad to get tips on finding the games! All us "media-challenged" Vol and LV fans need to help each other out. Thanks!
Einstein writes:
No it is not included. I checkedn it. I am in Texas.
You can buy the games separately, but they are like $16 each.
tonyvick#213307 writes:
Cain definately don't need to miss minutes because she can easily retreat in her play. Simmons keep your confidence up we will still need you in the near future. Williams you are the truth. Pat sees your potential and wants it to come out every game. You can be a difference maker. Glory and Strick this teams will go as you two go. Spani I love your confidence it shows in your good play. Bjorkland get well soon we are going to need your leadership and points very soon. Baugh you are getting better every outing and that is not good news for opponents. Brewer just concentrate on doing the little big things (rebounding and defense) and you will help this team. Smallbone and Bass continue to cheer your teamates on and continue to tell them what you see when they come off the court. Avant, what's...?
volfaninbuckeyeland writes:
Thanks Einstein, I was thinking about purchasing Gameplan for the season but if the bb games are not included, I cannot justify the extra money. Appreciate your enlightenment.
xvolx writes:
Strickland, Johnson and Spani showed up to play. Cain, Simmons and Williams didn't. Cain can't contest a shot without fouling. Simmons and Willaims play loafing defense. If they don't learn how to play 40 minutes, they will be a sweet sixteen exit.
maxvolfan#217855 writes:
Good game ladies . Can we get the Strickland family to travel with us to all the game. Shekinna went off. Anytime time you get Strick and Johnson together good things happen. Williams can penetrate and dish , rebound and put back with the best ok f them . I watched her and I think her body language is decieving. She look too relax but shes not . Shes just silky smooth and can pick her shot at will. Just like Strick. Heck I like who we got on the floor with Strick,Johnson,Spani,Williams, and Baugh/manning. With these 5 I think there will be less turnovers and more boards. Put Cain in for special cases like teams with a big center but not for zones. Simmons get a better feel for your team. Great game against a scrappy team .
houvol#438636 writes:
I think this team is getting better. Come March we will be able to make some noise.
RLL59 writes:
Hopefully, the experiment with Meighan at the point on a regular basis will end with this game. An excellent #2 guard is becoming a liability at the point guard position.
jdcdjc writes:
The only regular season game that bothers me is the Ky game, they always give us fits when played in Ky. We will have to be ready.
ps11824 writes:
The feed from SEC digital network linked on this page is terrible too. Stops and starts, drives me crazy; is it just me? I too use wildblue satelite which is ALWAYS sub-par, but seems to be the best I can get. Isn't that sad?
DroopyDrawers writes:
We have to vote for Angie in the Lowe's contest. She is second now. You can vote every day. It is on utladyvols.com
Jephry writes:
I disagree with you about Kamiko...I've been critical of her since last year, but yesterday, I thought she did a great job.
I also disagree that they play loafing defense. I think we tend to play guards too tightly...which will allow a quick gard to lose and/or get by her defender pretty easily. We play tight to guard the three, but it limits our dribble drive defensive ability. Not criticizing that defense, just making an observation.
I do think Simmons has a LOT to work on defensively. Pat said before the game she doesn't think Simmons has ever been made to even think about playing defense. That's obvious. However, when she leaves UT, she'll be a stopper...mark my words. =)
As always, Go Lady Vols...you make us proud!
richvol writes:
Simmons played her worst game while Strick played her best. Simmons got worse as the game went on and Pat finally had to pull her. She started taking more ill advised shots and turning the ball over the more frustrated she got.
Kamiko is the best point guard. She can really pass and create her own shot when she wants. She just needs to learn to please Pat...whatever that takes and is. When she gets in top condition she will be able to sustain her defense better.
Spani is better than Borklund and Glory is better in every way than Cain at post. Borklund is a spot up shooter but is blown by on defense and dribbles way too much. Spani is much more efficient and doesn't telegraph her passes like Borklund. Cain might have had lingering effects from her flu yesterday but she looked like she didn't care or try.
When Kamiko,Glory,Spani,Meighan,Baugh or Manning are on the floor we have a terrific and athletic lineup. I would love to see more of this.
maxvolfan#217855 writes:
Our def has been great only one SEC opponent over 60 pts so far. Our post are dominating the boards and will be tested against Dunlap. We will prevail. Baugh is our best constant inside player for a layup. Good finisher.
ps11824 writes:
Many simply see the team thru rose-colored glasses and believe they are as good as they need to be. I disagree.
Lady Vols are playing pretty well; enough to win for now. The team may win out and even get the SEC conference trophy. Going would be tough, based on yesterday's performance. You might say, "well, it's just one game." No, it is almost every game that sees starts and stops in smart play from our Orange & White. Brain freezes resulting in unforced turnovers will let good teams back into the game and boost their confidence while tearing ours down. Pat gets all hot and bothered and the opposition goes on wild & crazy scoring runs.
When we settle in to playing smart ball on a consistent basis, with 100% focus and ball security no matter who or what the opponent is doing, then we will be worthy of a #1 seed.
Williams does play with a certain nonchalant demeanor. I think that gets Pat's goat. I know that it irritates Pat when KW will not look her in the eye. Guess what? I have difficulty looking Pat in the eye. Why? I think she has the ability to see right thru a player and that player is afraid she will reveal a weakness. That's scary, isn't it?
I believe 'all it will take' for Kamiko to please Pat is to look her in the eye and say "yes, you are right. I'll do better." KW has a much better shot that Simmons, and she knows who wants the ball and gets it to them. She can board pretty well, and she just has this calmness about her game. I'm convinced that the staff should give her the point position, work with her and tell her the job is hers to lose.
Meigan is better suited at the 2 guard, IMO. Glory is a warrior at the post position because she has the hustle not seen in Kelley Cain.
Vickie is a real player when she feels confidence in her knees. I want so much to see her for long stretches. I think I am hungry to see 5 players stay in the game together for more than 2 minutes. I long for the days of giving a player a blow. Heck, now they play a minute and sit for 10. I can't help but wonder if the team would not be less turnover prone, more shot selective and super confident with their game IF they develop some big-minute-playing-time chemistry. I believe we can attribute Spani's recent production on bigger chunks of playing time. Anybody?
richvol writes:
I agree 98...a lot of players when corrected need to acknowledge what the coach is saying by looking them in the eye and saying yes. The lineup I suggested I would love to see get 30 minutes on the floor together.
BleedsOrangeinMO writes:
As long as we are dreamin'; the line up I would like to see is: Brewer, Baugh , Johnson, Williams, Spani. Brewer and Baugh need the minutes to get back into game shape and game frame of mind.
maxvolfan#217855 writes:
I also think our starters should all play more minutes together to bond and have more chemistry together.
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