Yolanda Griffith of the Sacramento Monarchs checked in to answer some questions from her WNBA.com Playoffs Mailbox. Here's what she had to say before the start of the Monarchs' first round series against the Houston Comets.


Hi,Yo. I just would like to say that you are my favorite player and I like to watch you play. What are some of the most important goals you have to set to do the best in the playoffs?
-- Tiff (Chicago, IL)

Griffith tries to make the Monarchs No. 1 in the WNBA.
Rocky Widner/WNBAE/Getty Images
Griffith: "The most important goal is to make it out of the first round. And in order for that to happen I need to contain my player so she stays off the boards. I also need to be the leader on my team and make sure things don't get out of hand."


Who are your role models because You are most definitely one of mine? Good luck and I hope that this team brings home the championship!!!!!
-- Bridget (Manchester, CT)

Griffith: "My role model is my mother. I always look to her example when faced with obstacles."


just wanted to wish you good luck and success in the playoffs. you are a tremendous player and i am a big fan of your game. who is the toughest player you have played against in the wnba? and who are you the closest with in the league?
-- Jason (Sacramento, CA)

Griffith: "I don't think there is a toughest player, I believe that since everyone has different playing styles, that in itself makes them all tough. But to name a few examples, Lisa Leslie and Natalie Williams are tough, and because of her height, Margo Dydek is also a power player."


The Monarchs are playing much better under coach Whiz and I think you have the team talent and depth to go all the way this year. How has your game adapted to the new Monarchs style? ?
-- Steve (Rocklin, CA)

Griffith: "My game has adapted by playing with no pressure. The way the system works now is not worrying about making a certain number of points...just let the game come to you."


Now, with first round with the Comets, with Comets leading the season series...what will your team need to strengthen in order to get past the Comets to the 2nd round?
-- Juanita (Marietta, GA)

Griffith: "We need to stay focused on the last minutes of the game because usually that's when Houston tends to make their run of the game. Along with that, we need to set free throws, execute offensively and control boards."


hi yolanda. first of all congratulations on getting to the playoffs. i have been a fan since you played in chicago for the Chicago Condors the ABL team. my question was what adjustments did your team make from last year to get into the playoffs this year? good luck and i'll be rootin for ya.
-- Laura (Riverside, IL)

Griffith: "Thank you for your support, Laura! The difference in this year from last year is the health of the team. Last year, there were different players that were hurt, this year, that really isn't a factor, so hopefully you will continue rooting for us through more than one round."