Diary

Sprague
Paynter

Past Entries

February 16, 2004

During our pre-game meetings, Coach T often asks us what kind of statement we want to make as a team to the rest of the UAA. With big games against the University of Chicago and Washington University last weekend, we once again had the opportunity to change the way teams perceive us.

This time we capitalized on the chance, stepping up to put together two good games. Having already faced both opponents, we were able use the game as a measuring stick to see just how far we have come and how close we are to accomplishing even more.

On Friday, we came out strong and were able to maintain our intensity throughout the game. The first half was a game of runs, resulting in a tie ball game at the half. Our post players all really established their inside games early on.

Lynn couldn't miss no matter which way she went, Steph had a huge game scoring and on the boards, and Alex was unstoppable going to the basket. The critical point came late in the second half when we sustained a late run by Chicago and made some big defensive stops to get the win.

After celebrating Friday's win, it was time to get back to work and prepare for Washington University. We all knew we were a much better team than the one that showed up against them in January, but knew we had to prove it. We worked hard in practice Saturday, as exemplified by a particularly fierce battle for a loose ball between Beth Bergmann and Zuver, the men's coach.

After practice, most of our Valentine's Day consisted of showing our love for Beth and Steph through a scrapbook we put together for Sunday's Senior Day. After arts and crafts time was over, we went our separate ways, in many cases spending time with the family and friends that filled the gym over the weekend.

After a shootaround Sunday morning, many of us hit up the DUC for its famous (in our minds) brunch. With the rain pouring down outside, we proclaimed ourselves stranded, and as a result were forced to make second trips through the food lines. Most of us got to the gym early to cheer on the guys' team, and then get ready to play.

After getting down in the early minutes, we were able to work our way back into the game. By getting on the boards and making some hustle plays, we cut into Washington's lead. Unfortunately, despite a big contribution off the bench from Ashley and a solid all around game by Beth Bergmann, it wasn't enough to for the win.

After the game, we gave Steph and Beth Byron our gift from the team--scrapbooks with pictures and letters to remind them of their four years here at Emory. As the only two seniors on a team otherwise composed entirely of freshmen and sophomores, these two have shown themselves to be leaders from the start of the season. They leave their mark on the Emory basketball program as the rare combination of being both fearless competitors and selfless teammates.

Though we ended with a disappointing loss against Washington, we are ready to send our seniors out as they deserve--with a big win on Tuesday in their final home game. As Bergie would say, "Holler Eagles!"

Sprague Paynter is a freshman from Wilmington, N.C. She would love to answer e-mail questions from Emory recruits and fans.