This topic keeps coming up in other threads so I thought I'd start one to put all the updates in one place.

My opinions, before our roster is complete and before I've seen any of our new players:

PG: I think Charmin will give the keys to Puff and let her go. Anastasia can provide some backup, possibly also Grace and Mjracle.

SG (2): Lulu is our only returning starter and a lock for one spot. Then we have Gisella, Mjracle, Lola, Taylor, Grace, and Isis. Is Sofia still with us?

PF: TBD. I presume we're looking for a transfer forward (or two). If not then maybe Taylor or whoever turns out to be our toughest guard.

C: Sakima and Gabby could share this, like Sissoko and Dort on our men's team this season. I'd expect the more experienced Sakima to get more minutes. I'd have to be convinced that either could play away from the basket (and I hope I am).

these two transfers -- Mjracle and Sakima -- have completely shifted my expectations. Just like last year, Charmin does keep this under wraps and then BLAM brings in the big guns ... I think given my hopes for Puff, my optimism regarding Gabby's development, and my love for Lulu, if we get even 1-2 more P4 transfer level players, specifically wings with length who can shoot, I am back on the bandwagon like never before.

ethan0l said:

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these two transfers -- Mjracle and Sakima -- have completely shifted my expectations. Just like last year, Charmin does keep this under wraps and then BLAM brings in the big guns ... I think given my hopes for Puff, my optimism regarding Gabby's development, and my love for Lulu, if we get even 1-2 more P4 transfer level players, specifically wings with length who can shoot, I am back on the bandwagon like never before.

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Two well-coached transfers, I might add. Most recently for Mjracle, it was Kim Mulkey. And it was Dawn Staley for Sakima.

Abigor has never been able to shoot outside three feet, I don't believe, and so I don't think she's a candidate for the four.

If Cal has to go small, so be it. Teams can be fun and competitive with four guards and a post.

(One other note: After years of doing this, program heights are almost always a lie. If a player is listed anything at or below 5-9, subtract two inches from their height. That doesn't mean the smaller player can't be effective, but at the upper levels, a good 5-10 guard is going to have a significant advantage over a good 5-5 guard.)

During warmups, Abigor shoots from three point in warmups and makes them. now ball hanling is a different matter. i liked her shooting form.

Last year, Abigor shot 49.2% from the field (under the basket) and 51.7% from the line. So we should probably have her expand her game a little at a time.

I think there's more time for a sophomore to work on specifics....arriving on campus mid-summer as a frosh has to be a big adjustment. I think having a season under her belt, knowing her coaches, etc. provides an opportunity for growth. I guess that's obvious, but I think she's a very athletic player who has great potential. I look forward to seeing her progress next season.

I'm wondering if there's an outside chance that Natalia Ackerman decides to stay at Cal. As far as I can tell, she hasn't committed anywhere else. But she waited until August of last year to commit to us. So, there's that.

Now, that she has seen who Charmin is bringing in from the portal, maybe she will reconsider her decision. She could be a leader on this team.

CalWSportsFan said:

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I think there's more time for a sophomore to work on specifics....arriving on campus mid-summer as a frosh has to be a big adjustment. I think having a season under her belt, knowing her coaches, etc. provides an opportunity for growth. I guess that's obvious, but I think she's a very athletic player who has great potential. I look forward to seeing her progress next season.

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I agree with you that she will keep on improving. But working on a variety of moves under and around the basket should be a top priority. She had a tendency to make too many fakes before shooting and did not have a fall-away shot or a jump hook last year. Those will make her much more effective. Also, hands up on defense at all times. She will be a really solid 5 before she is through.

I don't disagree. I am excited to see her get stronger and more confident under the basket for sure.

SFCALBear72 said:

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I'm wondering if there's an outside chance that Natalia Ackerman decides to stay at Cal. As far as I can tell, she hasn't committed anywhere else. But she waited until August of last year to commit to us. So, there's that.

Now, that she has seen who Charmin is bringing in from the portal, maybe she will reconsider her decision. She could be a leader on this team.

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the only issue I have with Natalie is her health ... a bad back is very tough to deal with or treat

HoopDreams said:

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SFCALBear72 said:

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I'm wondering if there's an outside chance that Natalia Ackerman decides to stay at Cal. As far as I can tell, she hasn't committed anywhere else. But she waited until August of last year to commit to us. So, there's that.

Now, that she has seen who Charmin is bringing in from the portal, maybe she will reconsider her decision. She could be a leader on this team.

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the only issue I have with Natalie is her health ... a bad back is very tough to deal with or treat

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Well, she'll need to deal with that wherever she goes.
By staying here, her playing time can be closely monitored and she won't be heavily relied upon as a go-to player particularly if the Bears pick-up another forward or two.

She will add to quality bench depth.

I am relatively new to active Cal WBB fandom, having gone to 6 games last year (first WBB games in many years). Mainly a FB and MBB fan, but just so discouraged by... well, you know.

Looking at Coach Smith's two new portal signings, I think Cal's biggest remaining need for next season is a Stretch-4 player. The same role that Suarez played last season, though it does not have to be a player exactly like Suarez. Bonus if the hypothetical Stretch-4 is a good defender, rebounder and passable ball-handler, obviously.

When that hypothetical Stretch-4 takes a breather, I am hopeful that we can steal a few minutes going small with 4 guards/wings and a player like incoming frosh Taylor Barnes guarding the other team's PF.

A Stretch-4 would also allow us to get past the emergency situation where both our bigs are in foul trouble, as they could defend the other team's C for a few minutes, while trying to punish the other team on the offensive end by playing 5-out. Not going to work all game, but could work as a change of pace.

OneKeg said:

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I am relatively new to active Cal WBB fandom, having gone to 6 games last year (first WBB games in many years). Mainly a FB and MBB fan, but just so discouraged by... well, you know.

Looking at Coach Smith's two new portal signings, I think Cal's biggest remaining need for next season is a Stretch-4 player. The same role that Suarez played last season, though it does not have to be a player exactly like Suarez. Bonus if the hypothetical Stretch-4 is a good defender, rebounder and passable ball-handler, obviously.

When that hypothetical Stretch-4 takes a breather, I am hopeful that we can steal a few minutes going small with 4 guards/wings and a player like incoming frosh Taylor Barnes guarding the other team's PF.

A Stretch-4 would also allow us to get past the emergency situation where both our bigs are in foul trouble, as they could defend the other team's C for a few minutes, while trying to punish the other team on the offensive end by playing 5-out. Not going to work all game, but could work as a change of pace.

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Welcome back to Cal WBB. Glad to have you.

Coach Smith has surprised us with these transfer portal signees. Personally, I didn't know what to expect last season. And then she signs Noble, Williams, Maul and Ackerman. They all immediately meshed with the returnees and the 25-9 record was the result. We were very competitive in the ACC and got that elusive NCAA bid.

We'll be a lot younger this season, but I really like the latest portal commits. And she went into SEC country to get them. Love that aggressive thinking.

I agree about the Stretch-4 player. I'm thinking someone from the Big 12 or perhaps Big 10 could fill the bill.

It's great that you started attending Cal WBB games. Expanding the fan base is a major goal of Coach Charmin, is very appreciated by the players and helps win games

You are spot on regarding our need for a 4 with those skills. That was Marta which is why she was such a huge loss. Not sure we'll be able to sign someone to match her ability but she is the model

OneKeg said:

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I am relatively new to active Cal WBB fandom, having gone to 6 games last year (first WBB games in many years). Mainly a FB and MBB fan, but just so discouraged by... well, you know.

Looking at Coach Smith's two new portal signings, I think Cal's biggest remaining need for next season is a Stretch-4 player. The same role that Suarez played last season, though it does not have to be a player exactly like Suarez. Bonus if the hypothetical Stretch-4 is a good defender, rebounder and passable ball-handler, obviously.

When that hypothetical Stretch-4 takes a breather, I am hopeful that we can steal a few minutes going small with 4 guards/wings and a player like incoming frosh Taylor Barnes guarding the other team's PF.

A Stretch-4 would also allow us to get past the emergency situation where both our bigs are in foul trouble, as they could defend the other team's C for a few minutes, while trying to punish the other team on the offensive end by playing 5-out. Not going to work all game, but could work as a change of pace.

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OneKeg said:

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I am relatively new to active Cal WBB fandom, having gone to 6 games last year (first WBB games in many years). Mainly a FB and MBB fan, but just so discouraged by... well, you know.

Looking at Coach Smith's two new portal signings, I think Cal's biggest remaining need for next season is a Stretch-4 player. The same role that Suarez played last season, though it does not have to be a player exactly like Suarez. Bonus if the hypothetical Stretch-4 is a good defender, rebounder and passable ball-handler, obviously.

When that hypothetical Stretch-4 takes a breather, I am hopeful that we can steal a few minutes going small with 4 guards/wings and a player like incoming frosh Taylor Barnes guarding the other team's PF.

A Stretch-4 would also allow us to get past the emergency situation where both our bigs are in foul trouble, as they could defend the other team's C for a few minutes, while trying to punish the other team on the offensive end by playing 5-out. Not going to work all game, but could work as a change of pace.

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Charmin and staff agree with you. They were trying to find enough dollars for a player who not only fit the job description perfectly, but was very interested in Cal. She ended up at Louisville, and not sure if Cal got out-bid or couldn't raise the 300k number that was originally talked about.

RedlessWardrobe said:

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mbBear said:

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OneKeg said:

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I am relatively new to active Cal WBB fandom, having gone to 6 games last year (first WBB games in many years). Mainly a FB and MBB fan, but just so discouraged by... well, you know.

Looking at Coach Smith's two new portal signings, I think Cal's biggest remaining need for next season is a Stretch-4 player. The same role that Suarez played last season, though it does not have to be a player exactly like Suarez. Bonus if the hypothetical Stretch-4 is a good defender, rebounder and passable ball-handler, obviously.

When that hypothetical Stretch-4 takes a breather, I am hopeful that we can steal a few minutes going small with 4 guards/wings and a player like incoming frosh Taylor Barnes guarding the other team's PF.

A Stretch-4 would also allow us to get past the emergency situation where both our bigs are in foul trouble, as they could defend the other team's C for a few minutes, while trying to punish the other team on the offensive end by playing 5-out. Not going to work all game, but could work as a change of pace.

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Charmin and staff agree with you. They were trying to find enough dollars for a player who not only fit the job description perfectly, but was very interested in Cal. She ended up at Louisville, and not sure if Cal got out-bid or couldn't raise the 300k number that was originally talked about.

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That being said, are you aware of any other worthwhile candidates left in the portal to fill this need?

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I am not that plugged in unfortunately... just happen to be very close with a big supporter of Cal women's athletics...

mbBear said:

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OneKeg said:

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I am relatively new to active Cal WBB fandom, having gone to 6 games last year (first WBB games in many years). Mainly a FB and MBB fan, but just so discouraged by... well, you know.

Looking at Coach Smith's two new portal signings, I think Cal's biggest remaining need for next season is a Stretch-4 player. The same role that Suarez played last season, though it does not have to be a player exactly like Suarez. Bonus if the hypothetical Stretch-4 is a good defender, rebounder and passable ball-handler, obviously.

When that hypothetical Stretch-4 takes a breather, I am hopeful that we can steal a few minutes going small with 4 guards/wings and a player like incoming frosh Taylor Barnes guarding the other team's PF.

A Stretch-4 would also allow us to get past the emergency situation where both our bigs are in foul trouble, as they could defend the other team's C for a few minutes, while trying to punish the other team on the offensive end by playing 5-out. Not going to work all game, but could work as a change of pace.

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Charmin and staff agree with you. They were trying to find enough dollars for a player who not only fit the job description perfectly, but was very interested in Cal. She ended up at Louisville, and not sure if Cal got out-bid or couldn't raise the 300k number that was originally talked about.

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One more reason I hate Louisville. It started when they beat us in the Final Four with a huge disparity in foul calls in the 2nd half.

HoopDreams said:

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SFCALBear72 said:

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I'm wondering if there's an outside chance that Natalia Ackerman decides to stay at Cal. As far as I can tell, she hasn't committed anywhere else. But she waited until August of last year to commit to us. So, there's that.

Now, that she has seen who Charmin is bringing in from the portal, maybe she will reconsider her decision. She could be a leader on this team.

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the only issue I have with Natalie is her health ... a bad back is very tough to deal with or treat

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Since Ackerman doesn't have a pro future given her injuries, she is probably looking for her best academic opportunity. She majored in Kinesiology at Cal Poly, and that is one major and masters degree field that we don't offer.

RedlessWardrobe said:

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Okay, we have now added Naya. Would someone be kind enough to list our current roster and how many spots remain open? (I think there's just one left.)

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Let me rephrase my earlier opinion:

Puff: PG
Anastsia: PG/SG
Grace: PG/SG
Mjracle: PG/SG
Lulu: SG
Gisella: SG
Lola: SG
Taylor: SG
Isis: SG
Sofia: SG
Naya: F
Sakima: C
Gabreille: C

In today's game it's hard to distinguish SG from SF so I didn't try to do so.

With several teams below us last year in the ACC now stocking up in the portal through influxes in NIL - Virginia, Miami, SMU, Clemson - we still do need a couple of additional front-line players to make us fully competitive. Not necessarily stars, but a couple of people who can rebound and defend.

stu said:

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RedlessWardrobe said:

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Okay, we have now added Naya. Would someone be kind enough to list our current roster and how many spots remain open? (I think there's just one left.)

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Let me rephrase my earlier opinion:

Puff: PG
Anastsia: PG/SG
Grace: PG/SG
Mjracle: PG/SG
Lulu: SG
Gisella: SG
Lola: SG
Taylor: SG
Isis: SG
Sofia: SG
Naya: F
Sakima: C
Gabreille: C

In today's game it's hard to distinguish SG from SF so I didn't try to do so.

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Thanks Stu, much appreciated. Sure looks like there's room for one more forward.

Hope there's no posting shutdown on BI.

SFCALBear72 said:

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RedlessWardrobe said:

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Okay, we have now added Naya. Would someone be kind enough to list our current roster and how many spots remain open? (I think there's just one left.)

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Why is that up to someone else to put together? Are your research skills a little rusty?

We currently have 12 scholarship players plus PWO Sofia Bowes. We had 14 plus Sofia last season.

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I asked if someone would be kind enough do it. I didn't order anyone to do it. Stu was kind enough to do so. Thanks Stu.