We didn't buckle down when we needed to get over the hump late in the game.

It's especially rewarding coming from a player you didn't recruit. It's an indirect compliment to our staff. Linda has a natural feel for the game. She has a great demeanor with kids. She's going to be a great coach.

She's still not where she needs to be. At 75 percent, she still helps us. She's been very supportive and positive as a bench player.

We didn't jell right away, and in a lot of ways I was tougher on her than some of the kids that did leave the program. She was called on the carpet in a lot of areas, but she met those challenges head-on.

She's been through it. I admire her perseverance.

Indiana State is the clear favorite. They have five seniors back, four of which are starting. They're definitely loaded.