Gold and Black is a multi-platform media company that covers Purdue athletics like no one else.
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/200613
projected purdue LINEUPS Starters PG KK Houser: Frequently during the last two years, the Boilermakers' success has hinged on the play of Houser, their starting point guard. She can be very good, with an ability to break down defenses to get to the hoop and score from the perimeter. But turnovers have been her nemesis, particularly when they come in bunches; last season, she averaged 4.2 per game. It's a trend that will be a staunch challenge to change this season. SG Courtney Moses: Moses led the Boilermakers in scoring a year ago, averaging 13.3 points per game. She could be even better now, particularly if her teammates do a better job in creating openings on the perimeter. When opponents have been physical with Moses, they've been able to slow her down, like Louisville did in the NCAA Tournament. But screens — both delivery of them and her use of them — would help in those situations. SF Dee Dee Williams: Williams scoring was improved last season, up to 3.4 points per game, and maybe she can do even a little more now. But it's not offense that the Boilermakers need. In a small lineup, Purdue wants Williams to be a solid defender, even in the post at times, and great on the boards. She's added strength in the offseason, bulking up her shoulders and arms in an effort to get inside more often and improve on her two rebounds per game. F Whitney Bays: The transfer could be a go-to player offensively for the Boilermakers, provided she's fully healthy again after years of knee issues. She's got the mentality to score often, with an aggression that helps her get to the basket. And over the last couple years, she's developed a better shot from the perimeter. She's a good passer and could facilitate from the wing and post. We'll see about defense; it hasn't been a huge priority in the past. F Liza Clemons: Now, an upperclassman, Clemons has to show more than the flashes fans have seen in the past. Being healthy — she's had a shoulder injury and an illness the last two years — will definitely help. She's not overly athletic but is fundamentally sound and a strong presence in the post. With a lack of options inside, Purdue needs her to play smart, defend and attack the glass. 66 IllustrateD volume 24, issue 2 Bench G Hayden Hamby: Hamby was hurt last season by a lack of confidence, and it showed in how she played, passing up scoring opportunities at times. But she's a scorer, so the green light is there to fire away. Purdue has a lot of experienced depth in the backcourt, but if Hamby can show an ability to score, either from 3 or on the drive, then she'll get minutes. F Joslyn Massey: Massey contributed little her freshman season, playing only 10 games and missing all of her field goals. But she's an athletic presence in the frontcourt and has tremendous leaping ability and rebounding potential. She'll get a chance, no doubt, but needs to show she can keep mistakes to a minimum. G Ashley Morrissette: Purdue likes Morrissette's mindset as a scoring guard who doesn't back down from challenges. She shouldn't have a lot of pressure to score a ton in Year 1 at Purdue — the Boilers have experienced options — but if she can learn to pick and choose her spots off the bench, then she could turn into a valuable weapon. F Bridget Perry: Purdue's not had a consistent scorer from the 3 spot in … well, probably since KiKi Freeman last took the court in 2009. That's been far too long. Perry has some of the same kind of tools, with an ability to hit from long range but also to drive inside. She's long, and left-handed, which throws defenders off-balance. She might be able to defend inside, when Purdue is in smaller lineups. C Camille Redmon: At 6-foot-4, Redmon has the kind of stature the Boilermakers need inside. It's been a project, however, in getting her to the point where she can be a regular contributor. Is she ready now? She looks to be closer, especially if she buys in that she's needed only to rebound and defend; any points would be a bonus. F Torrie Thornton: Thornton missed last season after undergoing double knee surgeries, but she could slide into a valuable spot now. She'll play inside, although she has some perimeter skills, and could be a shot-blocker due to her long arms. In practice, she can score at times, but will need to show she can do so in a game. G April Wilson: Like last season, when she played 19 minutes a game, Wilson will contribute a lot this season, probably as the first off the bench. Her presence allows Purdue to move Houser off the ball, and, with Moses, gives the Boilermakers a potent, albeit short, scoring group in the backcourt. — Kyle Charters f