We’re one-third of the way through the college hoops season and conference play is knocking on the door. Writers Ben Pickman and Chantel Jennings are bringing back our staple “Getting Technical” column, pulling back the curtain on what their conversations look like when they’re just chatting about women’s hoops.
Ben Pickman: What’s been the biggest surprise to you so far this season?
Chantel Jennings: NC State. The Wolfpack’s recent success had come on the shoulders of Elissa Cunane, and last season just seemed as though they were sort of wandering in the wilderness, looking for their post-Cunane identity … to no avail. So, when I looked at their roster this season, even though I thought there was talent, I wasn’t convinced they were a top-20 team, let alone a top-five team.
And yet, here we are. Junior Aziaha James is one of the most improved players in the country. After averaging 6.8 points a game last season, she’s leading the Wolfpack with 16.2 points a game and her 3-point shooting has been impressive. James, Saniya Rivers and Madison Hayes anchor this team, and its core has remained healthy with the same starting five in every game this season. That consistency has paid off and should continue through the ACC slate. You can’t say that about every…
