University of Connecticut Athletics
UConn Vs. Florida State Quotes
12/11/2015 12:00:00 AM | Women's Basketball
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UConn Head Coach Geno Auriemma
On Game Strategy
We knew that this game was going to be different for us. We were not going to be able to play like we did against Notre Dame: it was a defensive game. With the amount of stress that we have been in, with hurt players and other challenges, this was a very important game for us. We forced a lot of turnovers but we made it tough for Florida State to complete their shots.
On Future Plans
We have played eight games so I am not going to say that we are ready for the tournament. But we have accomplished a great deal in these game and faced may experiences, so I am happy with where we are as a team.
On Bench Players
You always want to have options. I always think that your bench has to be dynamic in whichever form that takes. I like the way it went tonight with Napheesa playing, so if it keeps going like this in practice I am going to stay with it.
FSU Head Coach, Sue Semrau
Opening Statement
"First of all, what an honor to play here at the Hall of Fame Classic. I was glad we got the opportunity to play against a tremendous basketball team, UConn. I love their three seniors and I've had the opportunity to coach Morgan (Tuck) and Brenna (Stewart) with USA basketball. They are not [just] special players, but they are also special people. Our team will get better from this loss and we will learn and move forward again."
On Team's Turnovers
"That cost us everything. It was a relatively even game in the first half, except for the fact they had thirteen points off turnovers. I have to credit the UConn defense, I think they did a great job."
Senior Guard, Moriah Jefferson
On Her Defense against Florida State
"I thought I did a pretty good job running them off their game. I think for the most part we did a pretty good job defending against the three and forcing them to drive to the basket."
Her Assessment on the Season after Eight Games
"It hasn't been very easy and we've been traveling a lot. It has been a tough stretch. For the most part I think we have played pretty well, but there is still a lot we need to work on."
Senior Center, Morgan Tuck
On Team's Defense
"That has been our focus the last few days. The coaches were really upset that we kept allowing so many threes. Today we tried to make sure they weren't getting their first option and made them work a little harder to score."
On Assessment on the Season after Eight Games
"Well, I think after the first eight we have ended on a very good note. The last three games weren't the most positive for us. The coaches weren't very happy with us and we weren't happy how we were performing. I think this game marked a turnaround for us."
