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Ask The Messenger | March 4, 2008

A: Brian, I can't speak for other WNBA teams, but the Fever does announce all of its free agents. We have done that each season. Sometimes the timing has varied, and they are not always announced at the time of each individual signing.

Ask The Messenger | March 4, 2008

A: Shardonae, no worries. Tan is already under contract for 2008!

Ask The Messenger | February 27, 2008

A: Yes, KC, I know that Kelly Krauskopf is hoping to re-sign all of the free agents from last year's team. Hoffman and Sutton-Brown are locked-up and Catchings will follow shortly. Anna got away unfortunately, but hopefully Sheri will return, too.

I like the role that Sheri played late last season, especially when Catch got hurt. Her maturity and experience was reflected on the court, and it helped us get through that six-game losing streak. I am not certain when Sheri will return from playing overseas, but I do know that she could be an important contributor again, especially until Catchings returns to full strength. And yes, how about that defense? Lin Dunn will certainly play a pressure style of defense, and you can expect the Fever to play a little more up-tempo than the past few years. Thanks for the question!

Ask The Messenger | February 27, 2008

A: Sarah, thanks for the question! Obviously we would love having more hometown players! And I can tell you that the Fever had hoped to draft Katie Gearlds in last year's draft. The Katie Douglas trade was a long time in coming, and she is an seven-year veteran who had the benefit and leverage of free agency. With Katie Gearlds only being a rookie, she will have three more seasons before she becomes a free agent, and then the stars will have to align properly for that move to take place! Fortunately for Douglas and for the Fever, those stars aligned quite nicely within the past week.

Ask The Messenger | February 22, 2008

A: Alright, Deb, here goes! You've given me lots of ground to cover! On signing Katie, what more can I say? I just wrote my thoughts in my blog, so I'll direct you there for any more on Douglas.

Regarding the center position, I'm not ready to say that we were weak at that position. And no, I don't mind you being critical ... we want our fans to be concerned and if that's your concern, than so be it! While I think that we were inconsistent in getting good, quality production out of our post last year, I don't think it was really a weakness. From an offensive standpoint, we struggled to score baskets alot of times - inside and outside. Not every team is going to have All-Star players at all five spots on the floor, so you often have to put people in the right positions in order for them to excel. Taking Tammy, for instance, she is never going to be a bruiser inside. That's not her game. Does that make her a bad player? Of course not. Does it make us weak at that position? Not necessarily.

When did Tammy play her best games last year? In the first half of the season when we were running more. And that is absolutely her game. She will beat most post players up and down the floor. How many other centers do you see in the WNBA or NBA beating other players up and down the floor for fast break layups? She can't be expected to run and run and run, during every possession, but she is agreeably more of a finesse player than a bruiser. So, we need to put her in those positions. We began to struggle when Tamika Catchings got hurt last year. And I'm honestly not sure why, but what it did was put people into different situations and the Fever certainly didn't adapt too well. I don't think it was solely her absence that was cause for our struggles, but if it allowed other teams to pack defenses more tightly against us, then that takes away Tammy's game.

Yes, Alison Bales will be back for a second pro season, and yes, Ebony is back! She was made a three-year offer by Phoenix, but Kelly Krauskopf matched the free agency offer and she'll be back for 2008, no matter what name she wears on the back of her jersey!

On Amber Harris, well, we'll have to wait and watch her college career progress at Xavier! She is another great product of our state, but if she goes too high in the draft, it might be difficult for the Fever to snag her --- if we continue having success on the court and drafting at the bottom of the pool!

On Coach Dunn - yes, we're all excited about a new direction and a new staff. We had a great team last year. But she is certainly a very dynamic person and, given a floor full of talent, I'm sure we'll all have fun watching how she assembles her team. Gary Kloppenburg is a very knowledgable assistant coach who has been with Lin previously, and Jim Lewis, signed just today officially, has a boatload of experience! Lewis actually coached Catchings in USA Basketball circles about 10 years ago, and he's been pretty prominent in an array of positions on the high school, college and pro level.

Keep the questions coming!

Ask The Messenger | November 15, 2007

A: Levette, there was a time that WNBA teams had conducted open tryouts in their local markets, but as the league has progressed to its current level, no, there are no longer any open tryouts. All of our players come direct from major college programs, or other pro leagues overseas. That said, if there is ever a small college player or a local free agent worthy of making a team, I'm sure most general managers would leap at the opportunity to find that "diamond in the rough!" If you, or someone you know, would like that opportunity to show their skills, I would recommend a letter accompanied with tape or video.

A: Thanks for the question, Becky, you're actually the third person to ask. No need to worry - no, Ann did not retire from playing basketball and yes, she is still a member of the Indiana Fever. Technically-speaking, she is not actually a coach. She is the director of operations for the Colorado women's basketball team. The best examples of this, for Fever fans, are Coquese Washington and Charlotte Smith. Coquese coached at Notre Dame for several years while continuing to play in the WNBA, and Charlotte was an assistant at the University of North Carolina during her year with the Fever. Olympia Scott coached college basketball for a year in between playing in the WNBA, Dawn Staley did it for several years while coaching at Temple, and even Stephanie White began her coaching career while still playing in the WNBA.

The only decision Ann made was whether to spend the winter months playing in Spain, or establishing the beginning of a career in coaching, closer to home.

A: I'm not sure that any players stayed in town solely to support Tamika, but yes, there were a number of players here for the better part of last week, or more, and I can assure you that plenty of tears were shed with her, and for her. One of the reasons that Tamika is the player that she is, like Tully, is that she brings people together and makes people around her, better. Her teammates gravitate toward her. She is considered a friend, not just a teammate. All of her teammates certainly supported her with their time and well-wishes during the past week, though some had obligations that required them to begin leaving by week's end.

Ask The Messenger | received September 5, 2007

A: Kim, thank you for the thought. And thank you from Tamika. Any well wishes or thank you notes to Tamika may be sent c/o the Indiana Fever at 125 S. Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis, Ind. 46204.

Ask The Messenger | received September 5, 2007

A: Wendy asked these questions of her Fever ticket representative, D.J. Parker. D.J. forwarded to me, with a request for other information about next year's Olympics and possible scheduling.

For Wendy's questions, first, the simply reply about free agency is that we just don't know yet. Those answers are likely not to come until at least January. Typically, teams and free agents can typically begin speaking to one another during the opening weeks of January, and may begin negotiating and signing contracts about mid-January. This year, however, things could change with the expiration of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the players association and the WNBA. The CBA will be re-negotiated following the season. Nothing will take place until the new CBA is established, and with that, there's no telling what new rules might arise. It will make for an interesting offseason!

As for scheduling around next year's Olympics, nothing has yet been announced. The prevailing thought, though, is that something similar to the 2004 schedule will take place. With the Olympics in Greece in 2004, the WNBA went on hiatus for one month surrounding the Olympics in August. Twenty-eight games were played prior to Aug. 1, with the remaining six regular season games taking place after Sept. 1, with the playoffs immediately thereafter. There's no telling what dates or scheduling might take place, but it's believed that something similar could take shape for 2008.

Ask The Messenger | received September 4, 2007

A: Second person to ask about Tan ... thanks for the question, Leah. Since I hadn't posted anything last week, here is the reply I just wrote for Dianne!

And a good observation on Tan White. Yes, her right thumb was bandaged, and she was actually close to being designated as "inactive" for Game 3 of the series. I'm uncertan when her injury occurred, but she was hampered with it in Game 2, also. She was given medical clearance to play a little more than an hour before Game 3, but I'm sure her effectiveness would have been compromised to the point that Coach Winters chose not to use her. How might her presence have helped to impact the Fever's defense of Deanna Nolan --- that is perhaps the biggest question posed by her absence.

Ask The Messenger | received September 4, 2007

Love your fans in Bloomington!! (Nancy Kalina in Bloomington, Ind.)

A: Thank you, Nancy, and all of your friends in Bloomington!

Ask The Messenger | received September 4, 2007

A: I received this question through my email (not the website) two days after it was asked, but I thought the subject matter warranted a reply. I wish the person asking had offered an identity, but regardless, I've got no issue with the question.

In short, generally speaking, I don't disagree with this person's assessment. I really don't. However, circumstances do dictate that Tully direct our offense and therefore I don't disagree with the coaching decisions. Let me explain.

There is one aspect of this person's argument that is absolutely false - that is the accusation that Tully makes stupid turnovers. I'll point to the Detroit series, itself. Tully had a total of eight turnovers in six playoff games, total. In one stretch of 82 minutes between the first quarter of Game 3 vs. Connecticut, and the opening minutes of Game 2 at Detroit - Tully did not commit a single turnover. So, remove that from the argument. There is nobody in the WNBA that guards the ball better than Tully Bevilaqua.

Some history - three years ago (2004), we didn't have any "true" point guard. Kelly Miller (who is doing a fine job for Phoenix in this week's Finals) was Indiana's only alternative, but, as fast and energetic as Kelly was, she didn't guard the ball. She knew only one speed, and during the 2004-05 offseason, Kelly Krauskopf made the offseason move to bring Tully to Indianapolis.

Neither Kelly nor Brian Winters has ever expected Tully to be an exceptional offensive point guard - except to control the tempo and guard the ball. And provide the superior leadership that she has. Her calling card is tenacious defense. She has never been an exceptional shooter, she'll tell you that herself. She will never be an oustanding offensive threat. What separates Tully from the rest of the league is her tenacity, her knowledge, her strong will, her attitude, her willingness to put "team" above all else, and her ability to bring people together.

As for K.B., yes, she is faster than most opponents. Yes, she moves the ball up the floor infinitely faster. And yes, K.B. may we be the Fever's point guard of the future - that remains to be seen. But K.B. is really no more an offensive threat than Tully, except in driving to the basket. I'll take Tully's shot over K.B.'s right now. Comparing just turnovers, K.B. had 26 in 454 minutes (0.8 per game, 0.55 per minute), in a solid improvement over 2006. Tully had 53 in 901 minutes (1.6 per game, 0.58 per minute), to continue one of her trademark characteristics. Tully shot 37 percent from 3-point range, K.B. shot 31.

The point is this, ultimately, with Tully as your point guard, yes, you have to pick your poison. She is not the ideal offensive player. Never has been, never will be. What we gain in intangibles, tenacity and steady play, we certainly lack in offensive productivity. She is a quarterback on the floor, she is not a scorer. And yes, what results often times is that teams can sag off of Tully and, effectively, play five defenders against our four other players. But would that be any different with K.B. in a half-court offense?

We all love Tully for all of those intangibles. She is one of my personal favorites for all of those intangible reasons, and for just those reasons, I wouldn't change our lineup at this point. The point about Tully's offense is very valid and not lost on our staff. If we were speaking about offense alone, yes, she might even be considered a liability. Yes, a new point guard must be groomed for the future. K.B. is a likely candidate, but except for her speed and youth, she is no more an offensive threat currently than Tully. It is a position of concern, with K.B. currently atop the list for the time that Tully's career comes to a close.

Ask The Messenger | asked September 4, 2007

My question though is why didn’t Tan White play in game three? I noticed she had a bandage on her thumb. Can you tell us what might have happened to her if anything? (Dianne Hornbeak in Indianapolis)

A: Dianne, thank you for the sentiment. It was a very difficult and sour way to end things, especially after going up 1-0 in that series.

And a good observation on Tan White. Yes, her right thumb was bandaged, and she was actually close to being designated as "inactive" for Game 3 of the series. I'm uncertan when her injury occurred, but she was hampered with it in Game 2, also. She was given medical clearance to play a little more than an hour before Game 3, but I'm sure her effectiveness would have been compromised to the point that Coach Winters chose not to use her. How might her presence have helped to impact the Fever's defense of Deanna Nolan --- that is perhaps the biggest question posed by her absence.

Ask The Messenger | asked September 4, 2007

A: John and Neda - I'm not sure if you're wanting to thank the Fever? Or thank the fans? Regardless, I'd like to do both. In fact, we've had some graphics made specifically to thank our fans, but they weren't done for posting by September 4, mostly because I hadn't anticipated the season ending so abruptly! That said, they'll post this week and yes, absolutely, from a franchise standpoint, we are grateful to our fans and thankful for their devotion to our players and our franchise.

I have been in this league for five years now. I believe this - that the Fever fans are as dedicated to their team and franchise as any in the WNBA. Our fan base is not as large as some, but day in and day out, from one season to the next, our fan base has been devoted and absolutely supportive. Our fans are active and energized. As a franchise, we realize that. We're thankful for it. And it is not PR-speak to say that we hope to win a championship as much for our fans, as much as for ourselves. They really, truly, go hand-in-hand, and as a franchise, we are devoted to those who have supported us.

Ask The Messenger | asked September 3, 2007

A: Takuya, thanks for your note and I wish I'd answered this one earlier! I don't want anyone to think I avoided the question. Frankly, I don't agree with your viewpoint and I'm not saying that because I'm trying to defend our coach or any particular strategies. The one thing I'm not is a coach, and I won't begin to get into strategies or x's and o's.

I believe two things about the Detroit series - the Shock were more talented at more positions on the floor, and the Fever didn't shoot the ball well enough to win. I can't personally blame the coach for either of those issues.

When the Detroit guards shoot the ball - they're tough to beat. Nolan could be the best offensive player in the league, in my book, at least the toughest to guard. And when Katie Smith is shooting it well, together, they're a great tandem.

Yes, we got the center that we needed, but keep this in mind -- when teams constantly zone an opponent, they collaps on the interior. Detroit is big and physical to begin with, with Braxton, Pierson, Ford. With those players collapsing in a zone, it forced the Fever to hit shots. We didn't. Frankly, we have been bothered by zones the past two-to-three years. Anna DeForge had a great series against Connecticut to keep the Sun from beating us with the zone, but she wasn't that hot against Detroit. And neither was anyone else. Catchings has never been a drop-dead shooter from the perimeter, and besides Ann Strother, the Fever just doesn't have a lot of real pure shooters. Therefore, Detroit was able to collapse in that zone, take away our interior and dare us to beat them on the perimeter.

I don't blame that on coaching. When our shooters perform on a high level, we were successful against the zone this year, better than a year ago. But between Detroit's talent and our inability to shoot the ball, that is my opinion on why we lost that series.

Ask The Messenger | asked September 2, 2007

A: Alright, we've never gotten an email from a whole family before! Haha. To try and put myself back into our frame of mind from last Sunday evening when I first received your question, my thought at the time was that we were very disappointed. We had not intended to check back in at our hotel that night after the loss. Because of a tight time frame to catch a possible return flight to Indy in the event of a win, we had checked out of the hotel that morning, on the way to the arena for a 1:00 tip. After the game, nobody wanted to go back to the hotel again.

As for your cheering from home on Monday night, I can only presume that you were among the many fans who made the trip to Detroit on Sunday. There were lots of you, which was something noted not just by the Fever staff, but even by the WNBA staff and ESPN crew with whom I spoke that afternoon. There was a significant Indiana presence in the stands on that Sunday afternoon. It was noticed, and I know noticed by the players alike.

I know the players were ready for Monday night's game, evidenced by our early lead (20-7 at one point). I won't blame the loss on Tamika's eventual injury late in the second quarter, I can't use that as an excuse. I think we were ready, but the Shock was a formidable opponent, obviously. They deserve credit for coming back. Who knows what could have transpired in the second half without the adversity faced earlier in the game.

Thanks for your question. Sorry for my delay!

Ask The Messenger | September 1, 2007

A: Candice, very good question. According to the literal, letter-of-the-law rule in print, yes, assistant coaches and other personnel are to remain on the bench. The intent of the rule, of course, is to limit people besides the head coach from engaging in excess communication with game officials or other in-game participants. The obvious nature of coaching, however, draws most assistant coaches from the bench, from time to time, to bark instructions or offer support to one's own players. Even Fever assistant coaches Lin Dunn and Julie Plank come off the bench occasionally to speak with Indiana players.

The intent of the rule is to contain anything excessive. It is my understanding that this issue has been addressed between the league office and all teams this week. Game officials have been asked to keep an eye on anything excessive or unsportsmanlike, but I do not expect the literal, letter-of-the-law to be applied in all instances. In my personal opinion, that would be silly. That would result in a technical foul even if an assistant coach stepped up to instruct a player as she ran past the bench.

If the actions of a particular coach abuses the spirit of the rule, then they should be penalized. And that is what game officials will watch and enforce. Technical fouls would be the assessed penalty assessed.

Ask The Messenger | August 30, 2007

Hey Laimbeer, I think you're great in those Geico commercials! (Turk from Logansport)

A: Sifting through all that, let me identify your question! Oh - MVP voting! Yes, it is done at the close of the regular season in order to account for all players, not just those who qualify for playoffs. Essentially, yes, the MVP award is a reflection of regular season performance, not the playoffs. As for the rest of today's entry ... I'll just say, "Go Fever," and leave it that. Thanks for the question, Turk!

Ask The Messenger | August 30, 2007

A: Harry, thanks for following the Fever from so far away! We do have autographed items from the players that are often requested, and our community relations manager handles most of those. The best thing to do is submit a request in writing to Roberta Courtright. I can't promise that every request can be accommodated, but we do get many such requests and our players are always very willing to sign for our fans.

Ask The Messenger | August 28, 2007

A: No Harry, Anna is not married.

Ask The Messenger | August 27, 2007

Go Fever... (Dawn from Batesville)

A: Dawn, thanks for the enthusiasm! And yes, we'd all like to see more games televised! ESPN and ABC put together a schedule at the beginning of the playoff season, mapping out all of its times and slots for games. Depending on matchups and time zones, different games are slotted at different times. For instance, if San Antonio had been the No. 3 seed instead of the No. 2 seed in the West, Saturday's Fever game would likely have been at 1 p.m., on ABC, but the Central Time Zone fit better into its schedule. I'm really not certain of all the factors, but that is how the national games are decided. As for local games, yes, there was initial conversation about FOX Sports Indiana airing some of our playoff games as part of its Fever TV package. But in the interest of trying to drive people into the arena to attend the games instead of staying home and watching on TV, the franchise chose not to pursue that possibility. The fans are truly important to our success, and we have made every effort to fill our seats.

As we advance to the conference finals and eventually the WNBA Finals, virtually all games will air nationally. Technically, even the first-round had every game on national TV, but that is counting NBATV. I realize, of course, that not all households have NBATV as part of their cable lineup.

Ask The Messenger | August 27, 2007

A: Laura, thanks for your question. Ebony is ok, but the hamstring is still sore. I spoke with her during shooting practice today and she definitely won't play in tonight's Game 3 with the Sun, but hopes to be ready for a possible conference finals matchup on Friday.

Ask The Messenger | August 27, 2007

A: Dean, the franchise was named "Fever" to symbolize the excitement and passion for basketball in Indiana.

Here is a quote from Kelly Krauskopf in a Dec. 17, 1999 news release about the naming of the team: “It goes without saying that Indiana has the most passionate and loyal basketball fans,” Krauskopf said. “We worked with the league office to develop a name that captures that passion and appeals to all ages of our fan base. We hope everyone catches WNBA Fever this summer as we begin our inaugural season.”

Ask The Messenger | August 2, 2007

A: Kerri, we definitely have your answer - and we went straight to the source, Anna, herself! (See, you really can ask the players ... I'll get you all the answers!)

Anna said that both of them were joking and laughing during the whole exchange. I wouldn't doubt a small bit of trash-talking mixed in, but nevertheless you had two high-quality athletes competing at what they do best. Here is Anna's version of the exchange, beginning with Anna's remark to Diana about a foul on a previous possession which gave Taurasi a four-point play opportunity:

Anna: "You know I didn't foul you on that three!"
Diana: "Maybe a little with the body!"
Anna: "Like that slap you just gave me (talking about her own made three)!"

Ask The Messenger | August 1, 2007

A: Matchups, matchups, matchups! I'm sure that Ann didn't play against the Mystics for a similar reason that Kasha Terry didn't play at Phoenix. Whether defending against a matchup or trying to create a particular mismatch, that is how Ann, Kasha and Alison Bales will likely be used through the rest of the season. No reason other than that. She earned some valuable playing time with her efforts at Seattle and Phoenix. Don't read anything more into her absence on Tuesday night.

Ask The Messenger | July 31, 2007

A: Niesha, thanks for the interest. Unfortunately, 'Ask The Fever' was discontinued last fall when the players went overseas. This format took its place when the blog was established as regular content on the website. Realistically though, I'm sure more people would like to hear from the players than from me, but this was admittedly easier to maintain so we've kept it in this format. It's probably about time for the return of 'Ask The Fever,' so stay tuned for that eventuality!

As for Tamika Whitmore, yes, she was obviously a part of the Seattle Shakeup. I honestly cannot tell you any of the specific reasons that Fever coaches had for replacing Whit or Sheri Sam from the lineup after the game in Seattle. I really don't know the reasons. But I can certainly tell you that there was significant concern of some chemistry issues after that game, and change was warranted. Personally, I'm glad changes were made. A shakeup was needed, somewhere, somehow - if for no other reason than purely a wake-up call. Whether it was Whit, or Tammy Sutton-Brown, or Sheri or Anna DeForge, I would not have been surprised of any changes that would have been made after the sleepless night in Seattle.

To Whit's credit - I have thought that her performances both at Phoenix and tonight against Washington, are to be applauded. Does that mean I think Coach Winters should re-insert her back into the starting lineup? Not necessarily. I'm one of those people who isn't concerned so much with who physically steps onto the floor for the opening tip. I'm interested in who is going to play well, and in what combinations. If team chemistry somehow dictates that Whit is performing better off the bench, than for the foreseeable future, that would be my vote. In the end, I just want production.

Is this the team to win it all? Not sure yet. Right now, no. Two weeks ago, I'd have said, "yes, maybe, definitely maybe."

Ask The Messenger | July 31, 2007

A: Thanks, Diane. Well-stated.

Ask The Messenger | July 30, 2007

A: Barbara, I couldn't have said it better, myself! And yes, the lineup did change on Sunday, just prior to your email evidently! Whether it was the addition of Ebony Hoffman and Tan White to the starting lineup, or just the shakeup itself, Sunday's game was clearly a much better effort and performance than that from Friday night in Seattle. It is difficult to fathom how a team as talented can have such difficulty without a single player - I agree. But the overall value of a Tamika Catchings is being understood right now. She impacts every facet of the Fever's game, offensively and defensively, as well as her leadership, energy and drive. The Fever is still in a good situation, so far as qualifying for the playoffs, but trust me, nobody here is happy with current results, either! We need to win and turn things around in order to be moving forwad for the playoffs, not backwards!

With support from fans like yourself, hopefully we can turn the corner and get back on track. Thanks, Barbara!

Ask The Messenger | July 28, 2007

A: Rhonda, thanks for your questions. I know that lots of people appear frustrated with playing time and substitution patterns (at least that's what most of my questions are about!), but I can only ask people to consider that not all 11 or 12 players are going to play regularly. It's just not a realistic expectation. I've addressed some of that before.

With regard to Ann, specifically, I, too, was glad to see her productive last night. It was good for her, good for her confidence, and good for our bench for her and Ali and Kasha all to get some significant time. Coach Winters is going to play the lineup that he feels is best equipped to consistently win games. Period. Each of those three players could still be considered as "youngsters." And Ann plays a position that is particularly loaded. The question is what matchups does Brian hope to exploit or create in each game. Ann is a smart player and an excellent shooter, but rarely will she be the best or quickest defender in a given situation. We are a very defensive-minded team, so that will be a factor in most decisions.

The tone after last night's game was, in short, "those who will play hard, and play smart, and execute, will play." I don't expect any dramatic changes, but I will not be surprised to see added minutes for Strother, Bales, Terry or even Ebony Hoffman, although she is already firmly entrenched in the rotation.

It's definitely a tough time we are undergoing without Ms Catchings. It was a bad time for her unfortunate injury. Not only is she such a skilled and active player on both ends of the floor - she is very much one of the team's hardest workers and the heart and soul and focal point of everything we do. Our coaches' challenge is to find ways to make adjustments to compensate for those losses.

In my opinion, the answer does not lie exclusively in expecting other players to "step up" and fill larger roles - we don't have another player like Catchings who is capable doing as many things - nobody does. The task at hand, somehow, is to make some adjustments - whether it be to strategies, substitution patterns or tweaking a lineup. The problem is that we've played a game or traveled on seven of the eight days since the injury, thus leaving little opportunity to implement those adjustments.

As for her return? I'm personally guessing sometime during the second week of August - leaving roughly a week or more left in the regular season. Keep in mind, I'm neither a coach nor a trainer, so you can take my opinions with a grain of salt! If she returns sooner, all the better!

How will the Fever fare and how does it impact playoffs? Well, certainly there have been alot of injuries in the league this summer. But Detroit has continued to win off and on without Cheryl Ford, and San Antonio has continued winning despite the occasional absences of Hammon, Riley and Buescher - the same as Sacramento is doing now without DeMya Walker.

So, where will we finish? I'm not much into predictions, but I can do math with anyone. The race in the East could get tighter if we don't put a stop to the losing skid, no doubt. Our cushion was so significant, though, that I do still believe that this is not only a playoff team, but a Finals contender. Presuming that Winters and court-leader Bevilaqua can engineer a turnaround without Catchings. If Catch makes it back with 4 to 5 games before the playoffs begin - yes, I believe this team can be every bit the contender that people thought we were just two weeks ago.

Ask The Messenger | July 27, 2007

A: Lauren, thanks for your question, but no, the Fever won't be looking for any roster replacements for Tamika Catchings. Two reasons. First, she will return in a couple of weeks, so there would be no point to add anybody. Second, the Fever roster is already stocked with 11 other players. The Fever couldn't add another player both for salary cap reasons and the fact that there wouldn't be any such player available to fill her role.

Ask The Messenger | July 27, 2007

A: Fading, I'm disappointed in you for two reasons. First, have some pride in your fandom and let's not hide behind a generic moniker. Second, a true fan will weather the adversity and low points in order to better enjoy and celebrate the successes. It's far to easy to proclaim yourself a fan only with the home team is winning.

Ask The Messenger | July 26, 2007

A: Wow.

OK, Turk, good to hear from you again. And to answer your last question first - yes. Welcome back from Sweden and we'll hope to see you at Tuesday's game with the Mystics again! As for MVP voting - it's a two-horse race and current activity suggests that one horse continues her stunning pace (Lauren Jackson) while the other's absence is speaking for her value (Tamika Catchings). If you reversed the situations, Seattle would be making adjustments to try and counter for the loss of Jackson, and probably lose a few games the same as the Fever has. If Catchings were still active, there is no doubt her pace would still be that of the best all-around, all-everything player in the league.

Really, they are two different types of players. A vote for either of them would not be a bad vote. Here is why I would vote for Catchings, if I had a vote - there is absolutely nothing that she does not do! And no other player in the league can say that so emphatically. Secondly, when we play Seattle, guess who usually guards Jackson, even despite the size differential? Yes, Catchings. When she is the best player to guard virtually anyone, and crosses over from one position to another - and her team suffers so much by her absence - yes, I term that player as "most valuable."

But I'm admittedly biased, and I also don't have a vote. As for who does vote? Big secret, Turk ... big, big secret. WNBA gods would strike me down for posting such privileged information to the Fever website!

Ask The Messenger | July 21, 2007

A: Olivia, I, too, love Ebony's energy. Alot of times when she is replaced in a game is because of matchup situations. Ebony is an undersized post player, and so against taller players, she has historically struggled down low. She brings great energy and effort under the boards, and will always have a place in the rotation, even though her minutes might not be in as large a quantity as her fans would like! She has a fantastic role on this team. Everyone loves Ebony, and she's definitely got a significant role, on and off the floor - I'm not just talking about her effervescent personality! But I must note, too, that while you point to her greater minutes in games that we win, remember that I'm a statistician by nature! I can also tell you that her greatest minutes have often come late in games when a victory may have been well in-hand.

Ask The Messenger | July 12, 2007

A: Darla, thanks for the question. I should have replied sooner. In short, I would like to see Alison and Kasha and Ann get some earlier minutes sometimes, for exactly the scenario that you present. But from a coaching standpoint, it's a tough call. And that's what we're talking about, right? "If you were the coach ... ?" Even a 10-point lead isn't usually safe, and especially on a team like the Fever who is prone sometimes to unforced turnovers. We've given up leads late in games this year, so I'm not sure that going that deep is always an automatic idea. It's a fine line. I share your interests, but I don't see it changing. Like I responded in my last entry - almost nobody in the WNBA uses all 11 or 12 players on its roster.

Ask The Messenger | July 3, 2007

A: Gail, I certainly understand the concern. And thank you for your question. The question regarding Ann Strother and Alison Bales, in particular, has been asked often. And you know, personally, sure, I'd like to see them play more, too. I think we all would - all the way to the top of the organization, and I mean that sincerely.

But here's the problem - it's really tough to go more than 8 or 9 players deep in a regular playing rotation. Ann and Alison are currently sitting in those 10th and 11th spots, unfortunately. Sheri Sam is probably the "9th" player in the current rotation, at least going by average minutes played. Sheri plays the same position as Ann, so let's pose the question - "Is Sheri that much better than Ann?"

Personally, I don't think so, either. (I knew you would say "no!")

But there is a fine line, and I'll point to two advantages for Sheri - experience and defense.

Sheri is as veteran a player as we have on this team. And on any championship team, there will always be those valuable role players whose experience rises to the occasion. Sheri has been an All-Star, she's won a title and she has been a starter in this league for eight seasons. And, perhaps the biggest difference between Ann and Sheri, is on the defensive side of the ball. They play the same positions, but they are different types of players. Ann is a steady, smart player whose greatest attribute is her shooting. Sheri is more of an athletic player who is a skilled defender, one of the league's all-time steals leaders, and quicker than Ann. Consider the Fever's emphasis on defense, and there is a very significant reason for the difference between #9 and #10/11 in the player rotation.

It's not a knock on Ann. It's simply an advantage for Sheri, given our style of play. Ann's lack of minutes is solely a product of being a very young player on a really deep, contending team.

To substantiate my argument, too, since this question has been asked so often about both Ann and Alison, I did a little research!

Of 13 WNBA teams, through games of July 1, only Connecticut and Chicago have rosters with as many as 11 players appearing in at least 10 games. Six teams show just 10 players in 10 or more games, Indiana and three others have established nine-player rotations, and Houston has only eight players with 10+ games. The only reason that Connecticut and Chicago have as many, is that their rosters have fluctuated and lineups have varied.

One step further, of those 13 teams, not a single team has more than 10 players that average double-figure minutes. Five teams have 10 such players, the Fever is one of five teams with nine such players, and Detroit and Seattle have only seven players who average double-digit minutes.

So, you see, Gail, there is really no team that goes that far down its bench. And we have a much more veteran team than most!

Ask The Messenger | June 6, 2007

A: Lauren, thanks for the note. I think the Fever will get some minutes from Ann before the year's done, certainly - but in Phoenix, she played behind Diana Taurasi and Cappie Pondexter. Here, she plays behind DeForge and Tamika Catchings. Not to mention Tan White. Sheri Sam is certainly in the mix, too, and as a more veteran player, Sheri is getting more minutes right now. Ann's got good length and a shooter's touch, and she's a smart player, so she will get her time. Remember, though, she's really not got much more experience than a rookie, and that start and those points in the preseason came without DeForge, White, Whitmore and Sutton-Brown in the lineup. She is a talented youngster on a bench that is pretty long with veterans right now, particularly at her position.

Ask The Messenger | June 5, 2007

A: Candice, thanks for the question. Obviously a good observation, and actually, I had a conversation with Brian Winters about that just yesterday. I don't think that Alison is in the proverbial dog house and I know she is not injured. What you witnessed in Sunday's game was perhaps another example of Indiana's new depth, and Coach Winters' ability to play against different matchups. I had been surprised, also, that she didn't play at all. But Brian pointed out that Washington didn't present the size that some teams will, and their perimeter players were very big. I think you'll see a difference in the numbers with tonight's game at New York - as the Liberty will start 6-7 rookie Jessica Davenport. Matchups will dictate an awful lot of the lineups you see this season.

Ask The Messenger | May 25, 2007

A: I've never heard the Fever called the High-Temps before! As for the question, Lisa Leslie is actually on the Sparks' roster, though listed on the inactive list. She says she is hopeful of playing later in August, after giving birth to her first child in June. No extra players, she just stays inactive.

Ask The Messenger | May 21, 2007

A: Ummmm, Ken? You gotta give me more information than that, my friend. Wish I could help! Hopefully we'll see you on Thursday and you can scout for the tall mystery lady again!

Ask The Messenger | May 21, 2007

A: Thanks for the question, Sal. First, as a point of information, Sheri was on what is now called the Inactive List, not an injured list. The WNBA terminology has changed in the past two years, and players no longer have to be injured to be inactive. But second, Sheri simply had not yet arrived in Indy for Saturday's game. That's why she was listed as inactive. And yes, she will be eligible to play on Thursday! Coincidentally, my latest blog entry just referenced her first practice today.

Ask The Messenger | May 17, 2007

A: We miss her, too! Linda was a favorite of teammates and staff, alike, but I don't think even a petition would be enough to wedge an extra spot on this Fever roster. She was a great teammate and a wonderful person, and the one thing that she brought everyday, besides her bright smile, was a willingness to work and make the team better. One of the reasons for Fever success the past two years has certainly been its chemistry, and Linda was no doubt a part of that. But there are a lot of pieces to the puzzle, and neither was she the only reason for good chemistry. Unfortunately for Linda, the Fever has gotten better, pure and simple. And bigger. As much as we all would love to have her here, she doesn't have the size of Bales or Sutton-Brown, nor the versatility of Sam or Strother. We wish her all the best and we'll remember her for the part she played in a franchise-record 21 wins last season!

Thanks for the question, Dot. Anyone with an email address that begins with "feverfanatic@--------" is a worthy contributor to FeverBasketball.com!

Ask The Messenger | May 16, 2007

A: Turk, from my PR standpoint, I'll be honest. I didn't initially want to address your question! Nobody likes to talk about coaches or any proverbial hot-seat. Especially before the season even begins!

But we're not talking in those terms and I LOVE your enthusiasm! Anyone that rallies like you deserves a reply! As for my thoughts on Reggie, well, I've honestly never had a conversation with the man and I couldn't begin to gauge his interest or success in the coaching profession. I think that coaching requires a particular mindset. Sure, there are all different types of coaches, but you have to have the drive to teach and convey a uniform message to a dozen or so players that need to respond as a unit. That is a talent in and of itself.

As for Brian, he's got a singular approach and focus - and that is to mold the Fever roster into a unit that plays outstanding basketball. He may be stoic, as you say, or mild-mannered. In WNBA circles, perhaps he's the anti-Laimbeer in terms of personality. Regardless of labels, all he has done with the Fever in three seasons is win. His coaching staff is secure and entering its fourth year together - only Connecticut's staff has been together longer (five). He has been a head coach and an assistant in the NBA and, relatively speaking, how about the thought that this is the first time in his career that he has been handed a talented roster. I say that and, of course now, yes, the Fever need to succeed. But two straight years of franchise records for wins is pretty good!

If Reggie ever does coach in the WNBA though, I think we'd have some real history on our hands. I am certain that there is no pro sports league in American history with a brother-sister combination that both served as head coaches in the same league. Sister Cheryl coached the Phoenix Mercury during its first four seasons, 1997-00.

Ask The Messenger | May 11, 2007

A: Hi Kathy, thanks for your question! A good question for all Fever fans who can't attend games, in fact! All of the Fever's regular season games are carried live on WIBC 1070 AM in Indianapolis. The WIBC website does have live audio capability, and it can be accessed by clicking wibc.com. Unfortunately, no preseason games are on radio or TV.

Ask The Messenger | May 11, 2007

A: Fortunately, Milt, I don't have to make that decision. And not to cop out on your question, but it's hardly the place of the PR director to voice a public opinion on such matters, so I'll let the suspense linger for another week!

I'll say this - that Ann has certainly performed well in both preseason games, and I was impressed to see her play the entire fourth quarter during Thursday's game with Los Angeles. It was a fourth quarter in which the Fever was scrambling to come from behind, and Brian Winters was certainly trying to win the game, while taking every opportunity to evaluate players. For Strother, I thought that was a good sign for her chances.

The coaching staff obviously likes Jessica Dickson, too, evidenced by the start she received against the Sparks. The rookie has really good quickness and skills. For sake of competition and for sake of seeing her best efforts, it's too bad she didn't have a better game against L.A. -- especially given that she'd missed the first preseason game to attend her graduation at South Florida, and her nerves may have gotten the best of her while beginning Thursday's game 0-for-7 from the field.

Three days of practice, and Tuesday's game at Chicago, will give coaches a final opportunity to evaluate. It is their decision that will matter!

Ask The Messenger | May 6, 2007

A: Turk, great question, and in fact I've spoken with Brian Winters about his thoughts on this topic. Essentially, Tamika already does this a little bit - often taking her own rebound and moving up the floor with the opportunity to create. Brian encourages that. And yes, he has given though to Tamika handling duties at the point sometimes, but he points out that it's not what he wants to do regularly. Tamika is obviously a unique type of player, and putting her in that situation can certainly present mismatches. And it's always a good thing for the offense to run through Tamika. But a downside to her handling the ball too often is that it would take her out of the rest of her game. Would she be available to rebound as often? Would she be able to cut and drive, or play off a screen quite as often? And with Tamika running the offense, would the Fever be as effective defensively without Tully Bevilaqua?

With Catchings, the Fever has one of the game's most versatile talents. Might she be the WNBA equivalent of the "point forward" that Magic Johnson made famous in the NBA? Yes, she is probably capable of playing every position on the floor. Last year, without the Fever's new size, she even guarded the post on occasion. She is a special player who will certainly handle the ball, and your idea is not lost on the Fever coaching staff.

One thing is for sure with the season ahead - the Fever will have options and versatility. Thanks for reading and thanks for following the Fever!

Ask The Messenger | April 30, 2007

A: Sandra, thanks for the question. My point with the previous question had been only that, in only 4-5 practices, it was really too early to tell. And even now that rookies have been here for a week, it's still difficult to imagine anyone "pulling ahead" just yet. Let's remember - none of these rookies is competing yet against anybody they will need to beat for a roster spot. As for Erin, she has been a very active, energetic player who has performed well. Coaches like her. She's been a good addition to our camp. I stand by my previous thought, though, that the final players to make our roster might largely be determined by positional needs. We'll be a very deep team, no matter who are the final players chosen. Erin and a Purdue connection would be a great addition to our roster, but if the coaches want to keep an extra point guard or shooting guard, for instance ... well, you can connect the dots!

[By the way, stay tuned for an interview with Erin that will run on FeverBasketball.com later this week!]

Ask The Messenger | April 27, 2007

A: Aimee, you’re right, unfortunately it really is a little too early to tell too much. They’ve really only played against themselves. With her size alone, Alison Bales is certain to be a factor and should make the team. But beyond that and with the depth of our roster, there will probably be about 6-7 players in camp (including Ann Strother, perhaps), battling for a final one or two positions. What it might likely come down to is, after determining the top two players at each position, at what position might the coaches wish to carry an extra player? Remember, WNBA active rosters only carry 11 players. We have 10 veteran players already, not counting Strother. A lot will be determined during the first two weeks of May.

Ask The Messenger | April 19, 2007

A: Davi-May, thank you for your question! Many thanks are extended to Linda Frohlich for her time and service with the Fever, and from me in particular! Linda was wonderful in updating fans with her Journals From Istanbul over the past winter months, and she was a fantastic teammate during the 2006 Fever season. However, with the addition of our new free agents, she was waived by the Fever prior to the beginning of training camp, largely due to salary cap considerations. On a side note, Linda is still competing with Tammy Sutton-Brown as a member of the Fenerbahce team in Turkey which has advanced to the Turkish league finals. The Indiana Fever wishes Linda the very best of luck in all of her future endeavors, on and off the court!