October 10, 2006 - New York, NY - During the 2006 Liberty season you saw Erin Thorn light up the Garden with 3-point shots and half-court buzzer beaters that kept you on the edge of your seat. Now you can take a closer look at Erin Thorn. Coach Erin Thorn that is. The four-year Liberty guard has returned to her alma mater, Brigham Young University, for her third year as an assistant coach on the Cougar sideline.

What prompted you to return to Brigham Young as a coach?
Coaching is what I would like to do in the future and I had an opportunity to return to BYU to gain experience in the field. I sure couldn’t pass that up!

Describe your coaching style.
In my position, I don’t really have a coaching style. I just help the girls with whatever they need. I’m there for them.

Describe the transition of going back and forth between playing with and coaching Ambrosia Anderson?
I didn’t really ever coach Ambrosia much, but it was fun to see her growth from playing with her my senior year and playing with her in New York. It has been fun to be around for her career.

How does being a coach during the off-season effect your game when you step back on the court as a player?
I understand what our coaches are thinking, whether I agree or not. I see things from a different perspective than simply being a player. I understand the “whys” more.

What is one thing you’ve learned as a player that you have taken back and taught as a coach?
Fundamentals are very important. It’s the little things that make the big difference. It’s better to be really good at a few things than just okay at a bunch of things.

Do you ever find yourself as a coach, thinking like a player, or vice versa?
As a coach, I sometimes wish I could be out there playing. I more find myself getting into coaching when I am a player than the other way around.

Do you feel that being a WNBA player gives you more credibility with your BYU players?
I think it helps. There is some level of respect coming in that opens up their minds to helpful suggestions from me.

Do you take notes or tips from the other coaches at BYU and use them to improve your game as a player?
Always. You always have to be improving. My game is far from perfect, so I try to listen to anyone who has helpful suggestions.

What is one value that you try to instill in your players?
Always be ready. You never know when you are going to get your chance and you need to be ready!

Do you see yourself coaching once you retire from the WNBA?
Absolutely, I would love to make coaching my full-time career once I retire.