University of Southern Mississippi Athletics
Women's Basketball Team Wraps Up First Weekend Practice Sessions
10/20/2009 12:00:00 AM | Women's Basketball
Oct. 20, 2009
HATTIESBURG, Miss. - The Southern Miss women's basketball team wrapped up its first practice sessions in preparation for the 2009-10 season.
Coach Joye Lee-McNelis and her staff put the team through several drills with emphasis on defensive fundamentals during the afternoon session, while the morning session was used to work on offense using various drills.
"Great weekend for the Lady Eagles," McNelis said. "The one word to describe the first practices would be `effort.' I was very pleased with the effort. I must admit Sunday afternoon's practice was one of the `best effort' practices I have been a part of as a coach. I am proud of the want to and know that the execution will improve. Unfinished business is on our mind."
Southern Miss returns eight letterwinners with just one starter from last year's team that finished 20-12. The Lady Eagles added four newcomers to the squad.
"Our veteran players are stepping up and being vocal and that elevates their play," said McNelis.
The Lady Eagles will practice each day in Reed Green Coliseum from 12:30 to 3:30 on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and 3:30 to 6:30 on Tuesday and Thursday during the week and 8-10 a.m., and again 2-4 p.m. on Saturday.
The Lady Eagles will participate in several off-the-court activities beginning Tuesday with the Joy Club Picnic 2:15 p.m., awhile hosting a mentor party Tuesday evening. McNelis also will host former Lady Eagle players at her home Friday at 6 p.m., and Saturday morning the team will take part in the homecoming parade for the first time.
Southern Miss opens the regular season Nov. 14, against South Alabama, but will play two exhibition games Nov. 1 and Nov. 5. Both exhibition games are free to the public.
