May 20, 2005

Last year, I predicted the Houston Comets would struggle to make the WNBA playoffs. Not only did the Comets struggle to make the playoffs, they missed the post-season for the first time in team history. The Comets finished the 2004 season with a dismal 13 - 21 record. The 2005 WNBA season begins May 21; and, I can say, without one ounce of doubt, the 2005 Houston Comets will be a successful team this season. Trust me. The team has undergone a lot of changes; and, the changes have been good indeed.

First things first, Janeth Arcain is back. J did not play with the team in 2004 because she chose to stay in Brazil and compete with the Brazilian National Team and prepare for the 2004 Olympics. Janeth's mere presence on the team makes the Comets better because she does so many things well: shoot, pass, dribble, defend, etc. Plus, Janeth's ability to make clutch shots earned her the nickname "J Money" because she's like money in the bank with the game clock winding down.

In addition to Arcain's return, the Comets have five new faces on this year's team and each one of them brings unique abilities to the club. Let's start with the three new veterans: Tari Phillips, Adrienne Goodson, and Kristen Rasmussen.

Tari is the strongest player on the team; and, she uses her strength to bang people around the court. Her physical toughness has already made the practices much tougher this season.

Adrienne Goodson (re: Goody), may be the oldest player on the Comets; but, she's in great shape. Goody plays solid defense and she knocks down mid-range shots. However, her best quality may be her attitude. Goody is very vocal and supportive. She picks up her teammates with words and actions. She pats them on the back when they deserve it; but, she also corrects them when it's needed, too. Goody is probably the best back-up to Sheryl Swoopes the Comets have had since Arcain came off the bench during the championship years.

One of the surprises in camp has been Kristen Rasmussen. Ras is quicker than I realized; and, she's a smart player. She moves well without the ball on offense; and, she strong enough to play tough defense. Her passing ability and her shooting are two more pluses she'll give the Comets. Plus, she's also a "talker". Ras talks on the court. She yells "pick right"; "pick left"; "I got yours"; etc.

Ras and Goody's communication on the court are much better than what the Comets had in past seasons.

Next, the rookies. I haven't been this impressed with a Comets rookie since Michelle Snow; and, this year, the Comets have two prize rookies: Sancho Lyttle and Roneeka Hodges. I covered Sancho when she played at the University of Houston the past two seasons; so, I have a good idea of what she does well. I always believed Sancho would be a better pro than college player because she's still learning the game of basketball. I've seen improvement in Sancho's game in just the first four weeks of practice. She's willing to listen to suggestions and advice from the coaches and her teammates which will quicken her learning curve. Her athleticism is stunning. Seeing her leap and do a pull-up on the rim was amazing; but, nothing (so far) has topped her blocking a shot against the backboard. I'm no chauvinist; but, I've only seen male basketball players do either one of those moves on a court. Sancho did both with ease and little effort!

Roneeka Hodges has been the biggest surprise in camp. She has unwavering confidence; and, a very good outside shot. She's drained jumpers with Sancho running at her and leaping in the air to try to block her shot -- Swish! Ro's ability to run the Comets' offense is an added bonus. Though she's never been a point guard before, Roneeka has done a very good job assuming command and directing traffic. The more basketball skills Roneeka can provide will only help the Comets.

Now, I'm not saying the Comets will win the 2005 WNBA title (I'm still not sold on the point guard spot.); but, at the start of training camp, I thought the team would finish 17 - 17 and just barely miss the playoffs. As of today, I think the team will make the playoffs. Keep in mind, Michelle Snow is excited and ready to have a banner year and put last year's struggles far behind her. Sheryl Swoopes is healthier than she's been in two years; and, Swoopes is motivated to prove a lot of people who said she's finished and is no longer one of the best players in the WNBA wrong. Sheryl is much more vocal in practice than I've ever seen her.

Sheryl says, "I'm excited." Michelle says, "I feel great!" Comets head coach Van Chancellor says, "I like this team!"

If star forward Tina Thompson returns this season following the birth of her son, who knows what might happen in 2005.

What a difference one year makes indeed.