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Let Hoops 101, and Betty, provide you with some answers below!
You are a very exciting player to watch. Do you think if everyone is healthy on the Lynx team that you could seriously contend for a WNBA title? Thanks, and go Lynx!
Jody, Shakopee, MN
Hi, Jody. Yes, I think that if everyone is healthy, comes in good shape and comes to training camp with an open mind that we will be in the playoffs this year. The only thing that can hold us back is ourselves. If we play together and we're healthy, I think that we'll be tough to beat. Thanks for being such a big fan.
I want to know what team you believe is going to be the biggest surprise this season in the WNBA?
Smooth, Youngstown, OH
I think that the biggest surprise in 2002 will be ... the Lynx, of course. Last year, because of injuries, we struggled. I think that this will be our year to be successful. Thanks for your question.
Hi Betty. What was the hardest transition about going from college to the WNBA?
Lyssa, Monroe, LA
Hi, Lyssa. The hardest transition going from college to the WNBA was the physical play. The players in this league are tough and play hard every night. There are no easy games in the WNBA. Also, the level of intensity really picked up from the collegiate to the professional level.
What advice can you give athletes who've been injured on how they can, as yourself, get back into their game? How did you overcome your injury? I can't wait to see you back on the floor.
Bernell, Milwaukee, WI
Hi, Bernell. My advice with a serious injury is don't let yourself be your worst enemy. Be patient and don't rush back too soon. Be sure to listen to what your trainer and your doctor tell you. You need to develop a mental toughness and always keep your spirit up. That's what I've tried to do throughout my injury. I know from first-hand experience that it is not easy. But, you must stay positive!
Hey Miss Lennox. What do you think about the new class of Lady Techsters? Do you think they can make it all the way?
Smurf, South Boston, VA
Overall, I thought that LA Tech had a tremendous year. Their inexperience in big games showed a bit when they played the better teams in the country. But, considering a lot was thrown at some of their younger players and only a few members of the team had big-game experience, they did a great job. They still had 20-plus wins. I'm proud of them because they really came far with their talent and experience. Thanks for the question.
Hey Betty, so who can beat UCONN?
Mary, New Market, VA
Hi, Mary. I think that UConn is a great team. I don't know who can beat them. They are beatable if they don't come with their A-game and someone catches them off-guard. But, I don't see anybody beating them.
What have you learned most from this hip injury?
DJ, Minnesota
Hi, DJ. I've learned a lot about basketball and myself. Now I know what it's like to be on the sidelines and watch the game. I have a better understanding of how my teammates play -- their strengths and their weaknesses on the court. I was able to gain a better understanding of my coach's perspective -- what he expects from his players and why. Thanks for the question.
I've watched you play college ball up until the pros, and you're an outstanding player. What advice would you give to a player that would like to play for the WNBA? Is playing for the WNBA everything you dreamed it would be?
Trana', San Diego, CA
Hi, Trana'. My advice would be to work hard, be dedicated and be sharp. This applies to the classroom, the practice court and the weight room. Don't allow anyone to tell you that you can't do something, particularly when it's your dream. When I talk to children, I always tell them that faith + determination + education = success. It is a formula that I live by.
Yes, the WNBA is all that and more. It is a blessing to be part of the WNBA. It is everything that I have ever dreamed of. Thanks for being such a great fan.
Hi Betty! First of all, I would like to say that you are an awesome guard, and I hope to play like you one day. But I have to ask, which is a greater honor, Rookie of the Year, or being asked to train with the U.S. team?
Keesha, Indianapolis, IN
Hi, Keesha. The two are different things. The Rookie of the Year award -- it was earned in a team sense. I wouldn't have won the award if my teammates hadn't given me the opportunity or help to put me in a position to succeed. Training with the U.S. team is such a great honor. It's something that everyone wants. My two goals entering the WNBA were to win the Rookie of the Year and become a member of the U.S. team. It's great to have the opportunity to achieve my goals. Thanks for the e-mail.
You're a great player. I would like to know how you get ready for a game, mentally and physically?
Kate, Blooming Prairie, MN
Hi, Kate. What I do is rather simple. Since the Lord blessed me with talent, I try to return the favor before games. I pray three times before each game -- as we come out to the floor, during the national anthem and during player introductions. That's how I get ready for each game. It's as simple as that.
