Sometimes the numbers tell the tale: Cal has the worst shooting percentage of any team in the conference, and has the worst defense when measured by shooting percentage (and points) in the conference.
In addition, only Washington is worse handling the ball, but shoots it better.
The eye test has said that Cal just doesn't have the horses to compete, and the numbers back it up.
Cailyn Crocker's last four games may be cause for hope, though. She's shooting the ball better and has a 10/6 A/TO.
Sara Anastasieka just isn't a Pac-12 level player (among others), and Crocker may turn out to be, which could help next year. Unfortunately, Jaelyn Brown, the only player to average more than 8.6 ppg in Pac-12 play, will graduate,
Jazlyn Green will need to take a big step forward, but that's certainly a possibility -- but as much as I respect Mi'Cole Cayton and what she's been through, I think it's unfair to expect her to be able to return and play at the Pac-12 level after missing so much time. It would be great, but realistically, improvement has to come from the recruits and Crocker and Green.
Charmin Smith and staff did a good job with what they had, which is the mark of good coaching, but next year might not be that much better, given the realities of the league and the adjustment young players have to make.
In addition, only Washington is worse handling the ball, but shoots it better.
The eye test has said that Cal just doesn't have the horses to compete, and the numbers back it up.
Cailyn Crocker's last four games may be cause for hope, though. She's shooting the ball better and has a 10/6 A/TO.
Sara Anastasieka just isn't a Pac-12 level player (among others), and Crocker may turn out to be, which could help next year. Unfortunately, Jaelyn Brown, the only player to average more than 8.6 ppg in Pac-12 play, will graduate,
Jazlyn Green will need to take a big step forward, but that's certainly a possibility -- but as much as I respect Mi'Cole Cayton and what she's been through, I think it's unfair to expect her to be able to return and play at the Pac-12 level after missing so much time. It would be great, but realistically, improvement has to come from the recruits and Crocker and Green.
Charmin Smith and staff did a good job with what they had, which is the mark of good coaching, but next year might not be that much better, given the realities of the league and the adjustment young players have to make.