4:20 - Welcome back, Monarchs Fans! Tonight, your Monarchs will host rookie sensation Candace Parker and the L.A. Sparks at 7 p.m. Tonight will be the first time Sparks veteran Lisa Leslie has faced the Monarchs since the 2006 Western Conference Finals. Both Parker and Leslie will be representing the U.S. in the upcoming Olympics.
One of the changes to the Sparks team during the offseason is the return of All-Star DeLisha Milton-Jones - I don't know what her wing span is (I'll have to check on that!), but before Sylvia Fowles (Chicago Sky) entered the league this season, I would swear Milton-Jones had the longest span in the WNBA. Which really makes it difficult to get around or above her outstretched limbs. DeLisha spent five seasons with the Sparks (1999-2004) before heading to Washington DC and teaming up with the Mystics.
One name you've read here before, if you've followed this blog at all, is guard Temeka Johnson's. I often find myself comparing Johnson with the Monarchs rookie, Aquonesia Franklin. The stats show Franklin (5'4) TOWERING over Johnson (5'3), so it will be interesting to see these two tenacious guards tangle tonight.
Another new Sparks teammember is former San Antonio Silver Stars guard Marie Ferdinand-Harris. Marie has speed to spare and the Monarchs are really going to have to be at the top of their game, both physically and mentally to take on this Sparks team. Sacramento is coming off of a very successful road swing, finishing the trip 3-0, so they should have plenty of momentum coming into the arena tonight. SacramentoMonarchs.com sent along a Monarchs Insider for the latest road trip. Click here to take an insider's look at what goes on behind-the-scenes on a Monarchs road trip!
I'll be back with the starting lineup a bit later.
In the meantime, here is your chance to tell us what you want to see on Monarchs Game Nights. Send us a comment right here from this blog and let us know if you would like to continue having a LIVE In-Game blog.
Also tell us if there are other online game night features that you would find particularly interesting or entertaining. For instance, when you visit SacramentoMonarchs.com after each home game would you like to see postgame quotes? If so, how would you like to have them presented to you? Video, written and / or audio? Would you enjoy reading a recap written by SacramentoMonarchs.com’s own Andrew Nicholson, outlining the ups and downs and ins and outs of the night’s action?
So let us know what is on your mind (likes, dislikes, suggestions and comments) regarding the online game night information we provide. We want to make sure you have all of the information you want to see in order to complete your Monarchs Game Night experience!
7:00 - Okay, amidst the roars of BEAT L.A., here are your starting lineups:
Nicole Powell vs. DeLisha Milton-Jones Rebekkah Brunson vs. Candace Parker Adrian Williams-Strong vs. Lisa Leslie Kara Lawson vs. Marie Ferdinand-Harris Ticha Penicheiro vs. Keisha Brown
I'm bummed....no Temeka Johnson tonight - she's listed as inactive for the Sparks roster. I guess I'll have to wait to see the Franklin / Johnson battle. For now.
I was confused earlier. I was getting set up here at press row even before the teams hit the floor for warm-ups. All of a sudden, the crowd started cheering...loudly. I just assumed the home team had hit the floor. I looked that direction...nothing. So I looked towards the opposite end of the court and there they were. The Sparks. Apparently, they have a large following here tonight. It's likely to be loud on BOTH ends this evening.
7:11 - With seven minutes left in the first, the Monarchs have the only points on the board, with two made free throws by Brunson.
The game is already very physical and with that three by Nicole Powell, the Sparks may just turn it up some more.
Ha - So You Think Your Dad Can Dance? Those were some funny...I mean talent-packed videos.
Hey, the woman on Monarchs Row that usually wears a purple wig is wearing a purple AND white wig tonight. Just an observation.
7:16 - Awesome move by Brunson under the basket. She threw a couple of fakes to Leslie and scored the layup. Sparks still stand at zero points...Monarchs have nine.
Ferdinand-Harris is just so fast. She zigs and zags across the court and you just never know what she's doing or where she's going until she does it.
Rookies Laura Harper and Aquonesia Franklin are in for the Monarchs.
7:22 - Another rookie, Crystal Kelly is getting set to head in for the Monarchs. Kelly had an exceptional game against the Lynx on Wednesday night. She was all over the place, and ended up with a team-high-tying 18 points.
7:28 - Another note about the crowd at hand, just under the visitor's basket sits Kings Forward Shelden Williams, who also happens to be the fiance of L.A.'s Candace Parker.
So, one down, three quarters to go. Monarchs are up by 14 points with a score of 22-8.
7:35 - Powell is, obviously, feeling it tonight. She just sank her third thee-pointer in a row. Looks like she is not even thinking about it....just grabbing the ball and tossing it up. Looks effortless.
Just to show that she can make it from closer in, she takes it through the paint and drops it in, getting a foul call, to boot.
7:40 - It almost looks like the Sparks are just confused. They don't seem to be playing together as a team. Right now, the Monarchs still hold the lead, 31-17.
Other Kings sightings, Francisco Garcia is chillin' on Monarchs Row and Ron Artest is trying his hand at color commentating, sitting between Krista Blunk and Jim Kozimor.
7:45 - Not suprisingly, Powell is leading all scorers with 11 points. The Sparks Sidney Spencer just sank a three-pointer, brining her total to six points on the night. Spencer can sink those threes like they're nothing. The Monarchs need to get out on her and stay out.
One of the advantages (or disadvantages, some might think) of sitting on Monarchs Row is that you are right in the action. When the team does great, you might even get to celebrate the moment with them. Such was the case with Laura Harper and a Season Ticket Holder sitting on Monarchs Row. During that last play, Harper got excited and just started leaping up and down and screaming. The STH stood up and Harper slapped her extended hand. A shot that could be heard around the arena.
7:50 - One of my favorite games of the season is tonight - Dads & Daughters Night. I love watching the Hip Hop Crew dance with their dads. It is the best. Those dads had to come out here and practice and take time to learn the steps and spend this time with their daughters. It is special.
7:53 - There's something you don't see ever day. Parker just shot an air ball.
This just in....Aqua's new nickname = Itty Bitty. Itty Bitty Scores Two.
Coming down to halftime, the Monarchs have a 15 point lead, 44-29
8:15 - The teams went in to the lockerrooms with a halftime score of 44-31, Monarchs. And now, they're at it again. The third quarter is under way.
8:27 - The Sparks have come out looking like a different team. They have quickly cut the lead to seven points and seem to be working together a bit more than they had in the first half.
Haper and Christi Thomas are in a battle under the basket. Thomas is not one to be messed with, but I've the feeling Laura can hold her own.
You have to love Chelsea Newton's play. You just have to. If there is a loud thunk and a white jersey splayed out on the floor, it is likely to be Newton. 9 time out of 10 she gets up smiling and simply carries on with her game.
8:36 - Well, that was a much needed Monarchs time out. The Sparks back-back threes have helped shift the momentum their way. They have scored 21 points in the third, while the Monarchs have scored just five points.
8:40 - I did not see that coming. Chris Webber just sauntered out on to the court to award the winner of the So You Think You Can Dance Contest.
8:45 - I think Candace just tossed that up with her eyes closed after a spin move and it fell in.
Well, that was a different call. Kara was called for a carry. You don't see that call too often.
I know she's on the other team, but that was a stellar block by Parker. She and her team have come alive in this second half and they are now up by 10 points, 55-65.
8:57 - That was just a nasty fall. After talking about Chelsea taking the hits and the falls, she just took one too many, coming down hard and hitting her head on the hardwood. No official word as of yet as to what the exact injury might be. If I find out, I'll pass it along.
9:00 - The Sparks continue to dominate in this second half. Leslie and Parker have just come alive, scoring 14 and 15 points, respectively, so far on the night. Milton-Jones is no slouch tonight, either, as she has 13 points.
The 15 from Parker has her leading the pack.
9:08 - Ticha puts a 'take that!' on the night as she races after Milton-Jones, who is attempting a fast break, and swats the ball away from her and into the stands.
Monarchs are going to fall to the Sparks in their first matchup of the season. After an excellent first half for the Monarchs, the Sparks just came out with something different, something more, in the second half, scoring 43 points to the Monarchs 22 through the third and fourth quarters.
9:13 - That does it for me here at ARCO Arena. The Monarchs tip-off against the Connecticut Sun right here, next Friday at 7 p.m.
Thank you for joining us here. We hope to see you next Friday!
Tonight, your Sacramento Monarchs (2-3) will face the Detroit Shock (6-1) here at ARCO Arena.
The game will mark the last home game until Dads & Daughters Night, which will be next Saturday, June 14 at 7 p.m. Dads & Daughters Night is always a fun game to attend. Dads are always more willing to jump out onto center court and make us laugh with their antics - which they call "dancing" - on D & D Night. Click here to get tickets to Dads & Daughters Night!
Oh, and another reason to head to ARCO Arena next Saturday - Los Angeles is bringing rookie sensation Candace Parker, veteran Lisa Leslie and the rest of the Sparks to Sacramento for the first time this season. If you haven't seen Parker play, or even if you've seen her on TV, get here to see her LIVE. She is a talent that is truly something to behold. Not that the Monarchs won't bring it and leave the arena with a 'W' that night.
Back to the game at hand. Ticha Penicheiro injured her left shoulder at practice this week and is not expected to play tonight. At this time, I'm not sure who the starting five will be. I'll be back to give you the starting lineups as soon as I get them!
7:00 - Okay, here you go:
Nicole Powell vs. Katie Smith Rebekkah Brunson vs. Cheryl Ford Laura Harper vs. Olayinka Sanni Kara Lawson vs. Deanna Nolan Scholanda Robinson vs. Elaine Powell
7:05 - So I had to look at something nobody should have to see while I was waiting for those starting lineups. Monty the Mascot was all dolled up in his/her one piece swimsuit. It's pink and flowery...but I don't know for sure if that's any indication of anything. I do know the outfit was causing fits over on the Detroit Shock side. They were having problems keeping the smiles off of their faces while they were warming up. After spending some time getting into the opponent's heads, Monty headed to the home team's side of the court and proceeded to help stretch one of the Monarchs players out. I'm sure she's all the better for it. I didn't catch who the player was, but if someone gets hurt tonight, I'm going to assume that was the player in question.
7:10 - In street clothes tonight (and STYLIN') are Ticha and rookie Charel Allen. So far, not much has been discussed about Ticha's injury. She is listed as day-to-day.
Note: When asked who the best-dressed Monarch was off the court, 9 out of 10 Monarchs (actually, I think all them...but it just sounds cool and retro to say "9 out of 10") said Ticha was the Monarch With The Most...Style.
7:14 - Harper is off to a fine start. She just followed up a couple of freethrows with a nice layup. When shooting her free throws, Laura uses a jump shot from the line. She is one of only a few women players to do this at the professional level. Monarchs icon, Ruthie Bolton was another one.
7:19 - I'm so glad Nicole is on our team.
At the first timeout, Monarchs are up by four, 15-11. They turned on some heat during the last couple of minutes.
7:28 - Okay, let's do something about Katie Smith. She's already got 15 and its only the end of the first quarter. Monarchs are now down by four, 21-25.
Apparently, the heat the Monarchs turned on just before the last timeout only proceeded to help Katie get hot.
7:31 - You are probably familiar with the wigged fan that sits in Monarchs row, just near center court. She usually shows up dressed in something....eye catching...to show off her Monarchs spirit. She often comes with a sign to help her be seen. Tonight, fittingly, her sign reads 'Sit Down Bill', referring, of course to Detroit head coach Bill Laimbeer. Laimbeer is well known for cruising up and down the sidelines, usually 'speaking' to the referees. Tonight, no exception.
Spin move by Brunson! Who saw that coming? Certainly not me. The defense missed it, too and she snuck in there for two. She now has four points.
The defense also missed Aquonesia Franklin's neat little top of the key jumper which, I swear, touched NOTHING as it dropped through the hoop.
As if that wasn't enough, Franklin did nearly the exact same thing the next time down the court. The net just didn't even move.
As if THAT wasn't enough! After that same play, Aqua stole the inbound pass, tossed it to Chelsea Newton under the basket. Newton got mugged by Blue jerseys, but her shot fell! And she got the free throw!
7:43 - That loud roar you just heard...that was Franklin heading to the bench as Powell stepped onto the court for her. The croud nearly erupted in celebration of Aqua, who just had a fantastic stint on court.
7:46 - Here's a nice little fact - rookie Crystal Kelly is leading the Monarchs scoring with eight points right now. Kelly, Franklin and Harper - all rookies - all having a great night against a tough Detroit Shock team. They are playing like wile veterans.
Talk about veterans, the Shock is full of them. If I were a rookie (and I could play basketball at this level) I would want to be on the Monarchs. The rotation that Head Coach Jenny Boucek uses really utilizes all of her players and gives the rookies a chance to shine - much sooner than they might be able to on other teams throughout the League.
7:55 - That's it for the half. Monarchs still hold a four-point lead. 48-44 going in to the lockerroom.
8:20 - And the second half is underway.
To me, one of best athletes in the WNBA right now is Detroit's Deanna "Tweety" Nolan. I don't know if she can jump higher than our own Rebekkah Brunson, but she is a tiny force on the court. She is faster than just about anyone out there (L.A.'s Marie Ferdinand-Harris comes close....) and she can shoot the three as smooth as butter. If she gets going, the Monarchs really need to watch out for her. At this time, she has 14 points. Her teammate, Katie Smith, leads all scorers with 18 points....make that 21 points. She just sank a three pointer.
8:28 - At the end of the third quarter, Detroit is pushing back and the Monarchs are down by two points, 58-60. Though the Monarchs have forced two shot-clock violations by the Shock towards the end of the quarter. Maybe that will help get the momentum back in Sacramento's direction as we head in to the fourth.
8:34 - Nolan just seemingly came out of nowhere to steal that inbound pass from the Monarchs. You just can't underestimate her...or Katie Smith, who just sank another three pointer. She's now up to 27 points.
And there it is! What Monarchs fans throughout the arena were looking for...and expecting. Detroit Head Coach Bill Laimbeer just obtained a technical foul. Much to the delight of the crowd here at ARCO Arena. I'm not sure what he did, but I don't think he liked a call that was made on the court in front of him. And he said so.
8:39 - Three plays later and Laimbeer is still voicing his opinion to the refs. He could be in trouble if they start listening.
Sparkplug Franklin is back in for the Monarchs. She joins fellow rookie Harper, Adrian Williams-Strong, Powell and Newton.
And, again, Nolan's leaping ability gets her team the ball. Thankfully, the trip to Detroit's basket is fruitless and the Monarchs get two from Powell on the other end.
8:44 - I hear AIR MONTY music! How fun is he/she? Way.
8:46 - Okay, fans are pumped up after the Air Monty routine! So are the Monarchs, apparently, as they quickly steal the ball and head to their end of the court, where Powell hooks it in for two.
8:50 - Just under three-minutes to play and the Monarchs are down by nine points, 66-75. the Hip Hop Crew takes the floor, followed closely by Ticha Penicheiro, oddly enough. She stood so close, I thought she might join them. I've no doubt T could hang with the 'Crew, but I don't know that this is the time. Okay, she slowly walked back to the Monarchs huddle, safe and sound.
8:56 - The Swin Cash-less Detroit Shock have kicked it in to gear. With only a minute left, they are ahead by 15 points, 66-81.
9:00 - Well, that's it. Lawson sinks a two to put a period on the game. The Shock take the 'W', 70-84.
Despite the loss, this was an exciting game with lots of Monarchs showing their talent. The final score certainly didn't reflect the intensity and drive that both teams showed on the court. Detroit had to scratch and claw (sometimes literally) to get back into the game and, ultimately, defeat the Monarchs here at ARCO Arena.
Remember, the Monarchs are a HOT ticket this summer! Get to ARCO Arena and see the games live! The next home game is next Saturday, June 14, at 7 p.m. when the L.A. Sparks are in town. It's Dads & Daughters Night - so bring your Dad or your Daughter...heck, bring the whole family!
5:00 p.m. - Welcome back, Monarchs fans! In about an hour your new-look Monarchs will be facing the new-look Comets here at ARCO Arena. Actually, with all of the changes occurring during the off-season, this season brings us a new-look WNBA! The League expanded, adding the Atlanta Dream to its list of Eastern Conference teams. The Dream took players off of every roster, including former Monarchs guard Kristin Haynie. Other changes in League rosters are, probably most notably, the Seattle Storm picking up WNBA All-Stars Swin Cash (Storm traded the No. 4 pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft to the Detroit Shock), Sheryl Swoopes (free agent from Houston Comets) and veteran Monarchs leader, Yolanda Griffith (free agent). The Storm re-signed free agents Sue Bird and Janell Burse and still had reigning WNBA MVP Lauren Jackson. Burse fell off the roster after sustaining an injury, but the team is proving to be a force, having started off the season 3-1. The San Antonio Silver Stars were the first to defeat the Storm (L 72 - 87) in regular season play.
Tonight's opponent, the Comets, had their fare of changes, as well. The departure of Swoopes left a large void for the Houston roster, but they did re-sign free agent All-Stars Michelle Snow and veteran Tina Thompson, which will help fill in the gap. In fact, the two should be comfortable with their roles on the court. They filled the gap left by Swoopes last year while she was out with an injury for most of the season, leaving her teammates to cover. In addition to Snow and Thompson, the Comets signed free agent guards Shannon "Pee Wee" Johnson and Tamecka Dixon.
One of the most impressive additions to the Houston roster, to me, is the signing of free agent Mwadi Mabika, a guard who came over from the L.A. Sparks, where she has played since 1997. This girl is tough. The Monarchs are going to have to be all over her and cut down her ability to shoot the three-pointers. Mwadi rejoins her former teammate, Dixon, who also played for the Sparks from 1997-2005.
So gather 'round the court and get ready to put your hands together. I'll be back in a bit with your starting lineups.
7:00 - As promised...here are your starting lineups: Nicole Powell vs. Mwadi Mabika Rebekkah Brunson vs. Tina Thompson Adrian Williams-Strong vs. Michelle Snow Kara Lawson vs. Tamecka Dixon Ticha Penicheiro vs. Pee Wee Johnson
Opening intros are up! We're just about ready for tip-off....
Seriously, kudos to Director of Event Presentation, Tom Vanucci, for coming up with this season's opening intros, shown on MonrachsVision. They are exciting and colorful. The crowd loves them.
7:08- Ticha's 1 for 2 at the line and Williams-Strong's rebound and layup of the missed free throw let the Monarchs fans sit down. One of the traditions here at ARCO Arena is the home team and their fans remain standing until the first Monarchs basket is made.
7:12 - Penicheiro is feeling it tonight, it seems. She's back at the line after a successful LEFT handed drive to the basket and a foul on the shot. She makes the free throw, increasing her total to four points with about seven minutes to play in the first quarter.
Not only did Williams-Strong change her name during the offseason, she's changed her game. She is starting this season strong.
Ticha is tough tonight. She's made both field goals and two of her three free throws. She is also fighting under the basket for the defensive rebounds. This is going to be an interesting game.
7:17 - In uniform for the first time this season are both Scholanda Robinson and Chelsea Newton. Both are expected to get some minutes tonight.
Monarchs Rookie Laura Harper is showing some emotion! Screaming in celebration after a made basket and a foul call, sending her newest teammate, forward Crystal Kelly, to the line.
Note: Sacramento acquired Kelly from the Houston Comets.
7:22- Penicheiro is leading all scorers with about five minutes left in the first quarter. She's got six points.
After sinking that three, Powell has five points.
Robinson is hitting the court for the first time this season. Followed shortly by Newton! They head in for Lawson and Powell, respectively. La'Tangela Atkinson and Charel Allen are both in street clothes tonight to help make room on the floor for Scho and Chelsea.
7:29- Looks like Houston is putting Mistie Williams in the game. She caused some problems for the Monarchs towards the end of the 2006 season as she was filling in for Tina Thompson. At that time, she was a bit heavier and proved to be pretty powerful. Looking at her tonight, however, it looks like she has really trimmed down. I'll be interested to see how she does this season. If Mistie or any of the Comets threaten to cause problems, Monarchs Mascot Monty is ready to sub in and help fight the battle. He's been warming up by riding on the stationary bike located near the Monarchs bench. I think he's trying to trim down, too.
7:35- Houston's Matee Ajavon just got herself a technical foul. She has not been too quiet towards the officials tonight. Kurt Walker grew tired of it and let her know.
7:40 - At the end of the first quarter, the Monarchs hold a three point lead with a score of 25-22. Ticha is still leading all scorers with seven points and the Monarchs are shooting 44% to the Comets 33%. The second half is underway and Ticha continues right where she left off. She is being aggressive, shooting the ball, driving to the basket, drawing fouls and making her free throws.
7:45- Former Monarch Hamchétou Maïga-Ba is in her second season on the Comets roster. So far tonight, however, she has not seen any game time.
7:55 - After a huge defensive rebound by Aqua Franklin - yes, Aqua - Scholanda dumped it in on the other side for two - she's now got three points. Monarchs are up by five points with two and a half minutes remaining in the half.
And now...the Hip Hop Crew entertains the crowd. I have to laugh because I thought the group that was on the floor was the group of the smallest dancers....then another group of even smaller dancers came walking out to join them in the middle of their routine. I thought I was imagining things.
It felt kind of surreal.
8:05- The first half is down and out, and the Monarchs head to the locker room with a five point lead, 38-33.
Ticha is still leading the group with 11 points, followed by Adrian Williams-Strong and the Comets Tina Thompson, both with 10 points.
8:20- Second half has begun. I have to say, I really like these new thunder stix that were given out on opening day. They're like thunder stix with tassels. So they can double as pom-poms, I guess. They're fun.
Sometimes I forget how high Brunson can leap. She just reminded me again...and that was just to take a shot! When she is going for her rebounds, she gets even higher. Maiga-Ba is in for the Comets for the first time tonight.
8:27- Tamecka Dixon just hit a three point shot, followed closely by a long two pointer - she can be dangerous if she gets hot like this. Hopefully, the Monarchs defense can cool her down. She's got 12 points.
Dixon and Nicole Powell are now leading all scorers with 12 points apeice and just under five minutes to play in the third quarter.
8:43 - The score is 56-53 in the Monarchs favor at the end of the third quarter. Powell holds on to the leading scorer spot with 13 points.
The Monarchs are shooting 43% to the Comets 31%. The team stats are fairly even down the line. Each team has 12 turnovers, five steals, two blocked shots and 21 personal fouls.
8:33 - Sweet pass by Aqua, hitting Harper underneath the defense in the key. Harper picks up the low bounce pass and sets it into the basket nicely for her first two of the game.
8:35 - Looks as if Houston is still sporting the small McDonald's logos on their unis. The Monarchs also wore the logos, but only during opening week, which was sponsored by McD's. (Just in case you might be wondering why one team has the logos and one team does not. I know why the Monarchs do not, but can't tell you why the Comets still do.)
After a huge mid-air shot block by Maiga-Ba, Hamchetou draws a foul on the other side of the court. She's got two points, but misses the free throw.
8:51 - I wonder what was said in the Comets huddle between quarters. They came out on fire, quickly making it a tie game at 58.
The Monarchs don't seem phased, however, as they quickly grab a three-pointer and take a 61-58 lead.
Wow - I don't think I've ever seen someone make so many three-point shots in the "Three for the Money" game that is played during the timeouts.
In that game, the Discover Card Crew grabs someone out of the crowd and brings them down to the court. They also bring out a rack of balls and then the shooting begins. The shooter gets a certain amount of money for every three-pointer made. This lucky and talented fan came away with enough money to pay for her whole evening here!
9:00 - That...Was...Awesome! Laura Harper just came out of nowhere to SLAM down a shot block. She flat swatted that ball out of the building, then let out a victorious scream that could probably be heard back at the Reliant Arena in Houston.
9:05 - I'm surprised there wasn't more blood spilled on that last matchup under the Houston basket. A battle for the ball involving Ticha, Harper and a bunch of red jerseys resulted in what looked like more than a few bumps and bruises. Luckily, there's a timeout quickly so all parties can take inventory of themselves. It's looking like Ticha may have come out of it with a swolen eye.
9:08 - Harper just hit two free throws, tossing her total up into double-digits with 11. Tonight, I think this place is Harper's House. That girl has been SOLID everywhere tonight. She is blocking shots, making shots, stealing balls and causing some Comets to pout, I'm sure. She is simply making it difficult for the visiting team tonight!
With Harpers help, the Monarchs have taken a 10 point lead with just under a minute left in the game. 71-61.
9:13 - With a nice full-court play, ending w/ a made layup by Rebekkah, the Monarchs cap off the game and the night, beating the Comets with a score of 73-66.
9:15 - Well, that's it for me here at ARCO Arena. Thank you for checking out the LIVE In-Game Blog! The Monarchs next home game is Friday, June 6, when they'll face the Detroit Shock. The Monarchs are a HOT ticket this summer. Be sure to get to ARCO Arena and check them out. Click here to get tickets to Friday's Monarchs vs. Shock game. Expect Great Basketball!
6:50 p.m. - Welcome back Monarchs fans! It's 2008 and time for another exciting season of Monarchs basketball. Opening night is finally here. The San Antonio Silver Stars are in the house and we're just about ready to tip-off the regular season.
Here are the starting lineups:
La'Tangela Atkinson vs. Vickie Johnson Rebekkah Brunson vs. Sophia Young Adrian Williams-Strong vs. Ruth Riley Kara Lawson vs. Becky Hammon Ticha Penicheiro vs. Helen Darling
The anthem is complete and the final warm-ups have begun. Stay tuned.
7:15 - The Monarchs are off to a huge start, with every starter contributing to the nine point lead. With just over six minutes in the first quarter, the Monarchs are up 14-5. Leading the Monarchs is newly married Adrian Williams-Strong, with four points.
Nicole Powell just came back into Sacramento last Thursday after a successful offseason overseas. Since she hasn't had a lot of practice time with her team, rather than the starting role to which she has become accustomed, she is just entering the game, along with Kim Smith. As I type that, Smith sank her first two of the season. Also in for the Monarchs, number 12, rookie Charel Allen.
In for the Silver Stars is former Monarch Erin Buescher wearing a gnarly knee brace due to an injury that took her out for most of the 2007 season.
7:22 - A'Quonesia Franklin is in for the Monarchs. It didn't take very long for her speed to not only help her dominate on the floor...it literally took her over Monarchs row and ONTO the floor. After a few seconds, she is helped up and back over the front row seats and is back in the game. Another Monarchs rookie, first-round draft pick Laura Harper is in for the home team.
7:28 - At the end of the first, the Monarchs lead has been cut to three, 23-20, and the the Hip Hop Crew takes center court for the first time this season.
7:33 - I just don't care who you are...you just have to love the passion on both sides of the floor. A'Quonesia is a slight 5'4, but plays like a burly 6'5, putting herself in harm's way just about every second the clock is ticking.
Brunson is letting her presence be known, as she is apt to do. She is leading all scorers with seven points. Just under seven minutes to go in the half.
7:38 - The Silver Stars have came back and are now up by one. Helped, in part, by the Monarchs 11 turnovers to the Silver Stars six.
I think Atkinson has been spending some quality time with Brunson, she is leaping more often and higher than last season.
Another rookie heard from. Charel Allen just sank a two of her own!
7:47 - 2:47 left in the half and the Monarchs have taken back the lead, 33-30. Brunson is still leading scorer, with nine points.
The Monarchs are shooting 50% from the field (11 of 22) and a MAJOR 100% from the charity stripe! (nine free throws total by Atkinson, Penicheiro, Brunson and Lawson)
7:53 - I don't know if this rotation will be the norm throughout the season for the Monarchs, but I like seeing the 'new-look' Sacramento Monarchs! Smith has played some major minutes, as have rookies Charel Allen, Laura Harper and A'Quonesia Franklin. This might change slightly when Scholanda Robinson (recovering from knee surgery: day-to-day) and Chelsea Newton (left side abdominal strain) return to the active lineup.
That's it for the half. Monarchs kicked it back into gear and pushed themselves up by six as they head into the locker room with a score of 41-35.
8:16 - The "other" number 33, Sophia Young for the Silver Stars, is having a nice night. She's got 12 so far, and leads all scorers.
Ticha just pick-pocketed a player and the dove to the floor in an attempt to gain control of the loose ball. Looked like it hurt, but she is back up and looks ready to roll. Seems to be holding her right shoulder a bit. That might be sore tomorrow.
8:21 - One lucky lady just won herself a flat screen TV. That doesn't happen everyday.
Kim Smith - wow. Talk about tenacious. She just hit the deck to save a ball, and then came away with it again on the other end of the court. She's got four points now. And possibly a few more bruises to show for it.
8:27 - Speedy. Aqua. Look it up.
Yup. Nicole is back in town. I love to see that. She is smooth, fast and smart. Over the years, her basketball smarts have really increased and have helped her team in bunches. Just like her scoring...after sinking another three, she just beefed up her tally and ends the third quarter with 11 points, surpassing Brunson as the Monarchs leading scorer.
8:34 - This crowd is more observant than the refs will allow, I think. That last Jump ball should have been between Aqua and San Antonio's Helen Darling, according to the fans.
Monarchs Head Coach Jenny Boucek has been fairly reserved during this second half, having been slightly chastised by one of the refs for being a little too....ambitious...at one point in the first half.
Hasn't seemed to phase her team, though, as they have rallied together once more and now find themselves up by 10, 65-55.
8:47 - Brunson just swatted that ball away as if it had offended her...greatly. I think it is still lost somewhere in the stands. The entire Monarchs bench hopped up and got loud for that block!
Follow that up with a beautiful Ticha-like drive and score by, well, Ticha and another quick score by Harper, and you have the Monarchs up by nine with just over three minutes left in the game. You also have a loud and excited crowd.
8:51 - Well, that guy in the hip hop crew is just crazy. I wonder how many bones were broken perfecting that double no-hands back flip and twirling end he just did.
I think I'm going to like watching Harper play. She can get down and dirty with the best of them.
Williams-Strong just took a nasty fall. But she is still in play. Every now and then you think you're just watching a normal game, and you may be, but then someone simply rises above the rest. Brunson. She puts an 'abnormal' twist on a normal game with her incredible hops.
Yeah, Williams-Strong is good to go. She just sank her thirteenth point of the night.
8:47 - Looks like the Silver Stars are going to let the last 25 seconds run off the clock and the Monarchs will take a huge WIN in their hope opener. The final score is 73-64 and it was just as exciting to watch as ever.
9:00 - With the Sacramento Monarchs, Expect Great basketball. Be sure to get here for the ARCO Arena experience at the next home game on May 30 when the Monarchs will take on the Houston Comets 7 p.m. Click here to buy ticket for the Monarchs vs. Comets game.
That was a great preview to what the season may hold for Sacramento. The Monarchs are a hot ticket this summer. Be sure to be a part of the action here at ARCO Arena. Expect great basketball!
9:08 - That was kind of funny. After missing her two free throws, Kim Smith was keen enough to get her own rebound and she tried desparately to get away from the Storm defense and pass the ball to someone else before she could be fouled. It didn't work. She was fouled and headed back to the line again.
She sank one of two, which was enough for the Monarchs to finish the game with a 70-68 victory.
9:01 - After making those two free throws, Lawson is at 18 points, leading all scorers.
13.4 seconds left.
8:57 - Monarchs lead 67 - 62 with :30 left.
8:53 - With a minute and a half left, Cash is still tops in both minutes played and scoring. She's got 16 points in just over 30 minutes played.
Lawson just caught up with her as she just hit the 16-point mark.
Okay, but Swin has still played the most minutes.
8:46 - Wow. Griffith doesn't know her own strength sometimes. She just tossed the ball from the opposite side of the court into the stands behind the Seattle bench. Luckily, no innocent bysitters were hurt in that play.
With her eighth point of the game, Charel Allen puts her team up by five, 63-59. The quick bucket by Kim Smith puts them up another two with 2:44 left in the game.
The Fan Cam is back. I love that. Tonight, however, it is very difficult to choose who should win the dance-off. I'm kind of partial to the little girl with the popcorn bucket hat, but the big guy is good, too. Or maybe the woman in black who is using every bit of extra space she can get to bust her moves. I just cannot decide. Glad I don't have to.
8:34 - Kara Lawson grabs her tenth point of the night, then follows it up quickly with a nice block on the defensive end against Yolanda. And then, again, makes another shot, bringing her total to 12. Nice start to the final quarter. Game is tied at 50 with just over seven minutes to play.
8:29 - Coming into the fourth quarter, the Storm's lead is only one point, with a score of 42-43.
Cash has surpassed Griffith in both points and minutes played. Scoring 12 points in nearly 23 minutes on the floor.
Charel Allen sinks two points, bringing her total to four points on the night.
8:25 - Aqua sinks her first bucket! Coming away with a successful two from the baseline.
8:22 - With the made shot and the made free-throw, Kim Smith sinks her first three points of the game, bringing the Monarchs to within four, 38-42.
8:17 - Griffith is not only leading her team in scoring (eight points, tied with both Swin Cash and Kaite Gearlds) but also in minutes played. She has currently seen over 18 minutes of action tonight, followed closely by Cash, with over 17 minutes played.
8:00 - Okay my interesting note from before (7:42 entry) is not so interesting. I know why Penicheiro and Newton have not played. Both are listed as day to day. Penicheiro with a right achilles tendon strain and Newton with a left groin strain. I was so excited to watch them play, I completely overlooked the fact that they were not going to participate tonight due to those injuries. My bad. On with the game.
During the half-time break, I spoke with some of the fans in the stands. The general consensus is that A'Quonesia Franklin is exciting to watch. The fans look forward to having her on the team to help out with the point guard duties as a valid backup to Ticha. The roster is not set yet, though, so we'll have to see how everything pans out.
7:50 - With the first half in the books, Penicheiro and Newton have still not seen playing time for the Monarchs, while Natalie Doma, Roneeka Hodges, Kristen O'Neill and rookie Allie Quigley haven't left the bench on the Storm side.
Brunson has surpassed Griffith and now leads all scorers with nine points, although the Storm have a two-point advantage going into the lockerroom with a half-time score of 26-28.
With just over two minutes left in the half, Griffith is still leading all scorers with eight points followed closely by Brunson, who is leading the Monarchs scoring with seven points.
7:39 - It's difficult not to watch Brunson play when...well, whenEVER she is on the court. She just tossed her full 6'2 extended body into the path of a pass on the defensive end and came up with the interception. (Yes, I know that's another sport, but I think she would excel in that sport, as well.) Anyway, credit one incredible steal to Brunson!
7:35 - It's...ummm...interesting to watch the 5'4 Franklin play defense against the 6'3 Griffith. She's holding her own!
7:28 - Two more Monarchs rookies are in for the first time - Charel Allen and Izabela Piekarska. Looks as if Coach Boucek is really rotating the players so she can get a good idea of who will work with the team.
Other players absent from the Monarchs active roster are Nicole Powell and Linda Fröhlich, both finishing up their overseas obligations.
7:20 - Monarchs 2008 first-round draft pick, Laura Harper checks in for the first time, along with Kim Smith.
Okay, Harper is not afraid to play with the big girls - nor should she be, as she has been playing with them for a while on the USA team. She just went up frantically for a rebound against Griffith. The ball came to the ground, so there was no clear winner in that. Still nice to see, however.
One of the neat things about doing this blog is I get to sit near press row, so I am privvy to some real 'behind-the-scenes' action. During that last time out, the stat folks back here were rather frantic as they were not told who took the time out. Hands were thrown about and voices were raised. I still don't know who was credited with the time out, but it was fun to watch on this side of the court.
7:11 - It's on. Both teams look a little disoriented so far. For the Monarchs, it's to be expected as the five on the floor have not had a lot of playing time together. A'Quonesia Franklin is running the floor - she is a ball of energy and quickness. She has been reminding me a little of Temeka Johnson , the L.A. Sparks guard. Both are on the smaller side, but as strong, quick and confident as ever. Also a little of the Indiana Fever's Tan White mixed in, I think.
It is very odd to see the number 13 on Yolanda Griffith's jersey, (aside from the green, of course). Seattle center Janelle Burse has the number 33, to which Yo and the Monarchs fans have grown so accustomed. Regardless, Yo is leading all scorers with 6 and there's 5:36 left in the first quarter. Monarchs are up by 4 with a score of 12 - 8.
7:04 p.m. - Player introductions are here. That Starting lineup for Seattle is just silly. Swoopes, Cash, Griffith...silly. Absent from their side of the court are two more starting former WNBA All-Stars, guard Sue Bird and forward / center Lauren Jackson.
Upon Griffith's introduction by the in-arena announcer, Jamie Coffee, the crowd gave a welcome (and loud) round of applause. Standing while doing so. 6:51 - Noticeably absent from the Monarchs bench, other than Yo, is forward DeMya Walker, who injured her right knee in Russia. Walker is expected to be out for about six months. DeMya underwent successful surgery this morning to repair the right knee patella fracture.
6:44 - Yeah, it might be preseason and it might be several minutes before gametime....but the crowd is already rockin' tonight as the Monarchs take the floor at ARCO Arena for the first time in 2008! Sacramento will meet Seattle four times during the 2008 regular season. Twice on each team's home court. Here are the four dates: May 20 - Tuesday - at Seattle - 7:30 p.m. (ESPN2) July 8 - Tuesday - at Sacramento - 7 p.m. July 27 - Sunday - at Seattle - 6 p.m. September 9 - Tuesday - at Sacramento - 7 p.m.
4 p.m. - Hello Monarchs Fans! It's May 2, 2008 and the time has come. No, not that time...not the time for the MONARCHS HOME OPENER. That will be May 17 at 7 p.m. as the Monarchs look to start their season with a victory against the San Antonio Silver Stars at ARCO Arena.
No, tonight it's time for the Monarchs to tip-off their 2008 preseason at home against the new-look Seattle Storm.
It all begins at 7 p.m. at ARCO Arena . The Storm already have one preseason game behind them, losing a 66-46 contest in Chicago against the Sky on Wednesday. Former Monarchs center, Yolanda Griffith, played her first game in the green and yellow and led her team with nine points. With new head coach Brian Agler and several players wearing the Storm uni for the first time, Seattle is sure to be a team to watch this season, having also acquired many former WNBA All-Stars, MVP's and Olympic Gold recipients. They include Swin Cash (signed Feb. 19), Sheryl Swoopes (signed March 3) and Griffith (signed April 8). Add those to an already strong Storm team that includes veterans Lauren Jackson, Sue Bird and Janelle Burse and you come up with a team that is likely to hit the playoff trail this summer.
The Monarchs began training camp on April 22. Click here to check out some training camp quotes as well as some of the latest Monarchs news!
I'll be back closer to game time with starting lineups for tonight's preseason start!
12:36 - Well, that about wraps it up for the 2008 WNBA Draft here in the Monarchs "War Room." Here's the Monarchs Draft roundup:
10th pick = Laura Harper, 6'4 forward / center from Maryland 38th pick = A’Quonesia Franklin, a 5'3 guard from Texas A&M 40th pick = Izabela Piekarska from UTEP 43rd pick = Charel Allen, a 5'11 guard from Notre Dame
That's it from here! Thanks for checking this blog out and here's looking forward to a great summer filled with exciting Monarchs basketball!
Remember, individual tickets go on sale this Thursday, April 10 at 10 a.m.
12:26 - And the final pick goes to the Monarchs, who take Charel Allen, a 5'11 guard from Notre Dame. 12:23 - Detroit chose Valeriya Berezhynska, a 6'4 center from Rice.
12:19 - Phoenix chose Marscilla Packer. Packer is a 5'9 guard from Ohio State.
Some behind the scenes action - with one pick remaining for Sacramento, the team in this room is very pleased and excited with the picks that we have gotten in the 2008 Draft.
12:16 - San Antonio selects Alex Anderson and the Monarchs pick Isabela Piekarska from UTEP.
12:09 - The Monarchs pick A'Quonesia Franklin, the "big girl from Texas A&M", a 5'3 guard. Franklin could add a lot of quickness to the back-up guard position.
Wiz and Laimbeer continue to have some friendly and good humored back and forth over the conference call.
12:06 - The Sun select Lauren Ervin, a 6'3 forward from Arkansas.
The team here is still discussing the Monarchs needs as far as positions and what they need in order to put together the best Monarchs team.
12:00 p.m. - The Storm select Kimberly Beck, a 5'8 guard from George Washington.
11:59 - Discussions are in progress about who is left and who we may want to choose.
For the 35th pick, New York chooses Alberta Auguste.
11:55 - The Houston Comets takes Crystal Kelly, a 6'3 forward from Western Kentucky.
The Atlanta Dream choose Danielle Hood. Chicago Sky takes Angela Tisdale. Washington Mystics take Krystal Vaughn.
11:53 - Minnesota chose Charde Houston. Houston is a 6'1 forward from Connecticut.
11:51 - Sharnee' Zoll is taken by L.A. Sparks as the first pick in the third round and Coach Whisenant marvels at what a deep draft this is.
"This is the best draft. The deepest we've seen." he said.
11:48 - More player video to check out, so I was away for a bit... Indiana Fever chose Khadijah Whittington New York Liberty chose Wanisha Smith Detroit Shock chose Natasha Lacy
That completes the second round. On to the third. Here's where we come in with our three remaining picks!
11:35 - It's grown quiet in here....listening to an interview regarding the Atunrase pick. Waiting for the next pick to be announced....by Phoenix.
And here it is - Leilani Mitchell, a 5'5 guard from Utah.
11:29 - The Sun choose Jolene Anderson, a 5'8 guard from Wisconsin. The Atlanta Dream choose Morenike Atunrase, a 5'10 guard / forward from Texas A&M.
More buzzing in the room.
11:21 - Joining the newest Storm members Swin Cash, Sheryl Swoopes and former Monarch, Yolanda Griffith, is...Allie Quigley, a 5'11 guard from DePaul.
Connecticut is up next. Remember, the Monarchs have no second round draft pick. It was traded to Indiana for La'Tangela Atkinson on 3/23/07. So, we're just watching this one, crossing off prospect's names as we go and gearing up for the third round. We're up again with picks 38, 40 and 43.
11:14 - okay - I'm back again. I was trying to help out in gathering some stats. Here's what went on while I was away -
The Sparks chose Shannon Bobbitt, a 5'2 guard from Tennessee The Lynx chose Nkolika "Nicky" Anosike, a 6'4 forward / center from Tennessee The Comets chose Erica White, a 5'3 guard from LSU The Shock chose Olayinka Sanni, a 6'2 center from West Virginia The Sky chose Quianna Chaney, a 5'11 guard from LSU The Mystics chose Lindsey Pluimer, a 6'4 forward from UCLS The Silver Stars added Chioma Nnamaka, a 6'0 guard from Georgia Tech
Phew. That brings us to the 22nd pick by Seattle. Coming up!
11:00 - There will be a short break between the rounds.
10:55 - Finishing out the first round, the New York Liberty choose Erlana Larkins from North Carolina.
10:53 - LaToya Pringle from North Carolina is chosen by the Phoenix Mercury. People in the room are surprised she went so low in the round. It could be interesting to see how this forward / center fares with the strong performers in Phoenix.
10:48 - Tasha Humphry, a 6'3 forward from Georgia is chosen by Detroit in their second and final pick of the first round.
10:43 - Coming to the Sacramento Monarchs....LAURA HARPER! Harper is a 6'4 forward / center from the University of Maryland. She was a Naismith Award finalist in 2007 and the 2006 NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player. The crew here is very excited to have acquired Harper. Sounds like they're anxious to see her get on the court with the healthy DeMya Walker.
10:41 - The Sun select forward Amber Holt from Middle Tennessee State. To the surprise of the people in this room.
We're up!
10:37 - The WNBA's newest franchise, the Atlanta Dream just chose guard Tamera Young from James Madison University. Another round of "Wows!" went around the table at that announcement. Lots of bustling around the white boards, too.
10:32 - Rutgers Guard, Essence Carson, is heading to the New York Liberty. There is starting to be a buzz around the table in the room as our 10th pick is getting closer and it is more and more likely we will get one of our preferred prospects.
10:28 - Crystal Langhorne - from University of Maryland - is sticking around there, as she is chosen by the Washington Mystics. This caused some "ohs" and "ahs" in the room as her name was shifted to the 'taken' side of the whiteboard.
10:25 - Comets pick up guard Matee Ajavon from Rugters. Even without Swoopes on this Houston team, they look like they're going to remain deep on talent, having re-signed forward Tina Thompson, center Michelle Snow and guard Tamecka Dixon. They've also brought on the fiesty veteran guard, Shannon Johnson from the Shock and former L.A. Sparks guard Mwadi Mabika.
10:20 - Tennessee guard Alexis Hornbuckle is headed to Bill Laimbeer and the Detroit Shock.
10:16 - Stanford's Candice (ICE) Wiggins is chosen by Minnesota. So far, the top three picks have not been a surprise. The coaches in the room here agree that the 5'11 guard is a good pick for the Lynx.
10:14 - Sylvia Fowles. Chicago Sky. There you go. The 6'6 center led her LSU team to the NCAA Final Four to top off her exciting college career.
10:10 - No surprises there. Candace (ACE) Parker is on the Sparks. This girl...I don't care what you need on your team, Parker can fill that hole. After years of anticipation, she finally has her spot in professional sports.
Chicago is now on the clock.
Draft Day: 9:58 a.m. - Good morning! It's Draft Day. I would have written a bit earlier, but I was assisting the coaching staff in watching some last-minute player video. But, we're here now and just about ready for take off!
I was also a bit busy getting the LIVE VIDEO ONLY feed set up so that you could get an inside look at the Monarchs "War Room." Check the live video only feed out here!
So, here's the layout in the room - the room itself is located in the Monarchs Practice Facility. Inside, there is a long table, a few TVs and, today, a couple of big white boards with a list of teams and a list of prospects.
On the main screen in the middle of the back wall, ESPN2 is showing the Draft. Opposite that, at the table, Monarchs Head Coach Jenny Boucek sits next to General Manager John Whisenant. On the other side of Wiz is Monarchs Assistant Coach Tom Abatemarco and Assistant Coach Monique Ambers sits across from them. Monarchs trainer Jill Jackson just walked in the room and quietly took a seat in the far corner. Monarchs Manager of Basketball Operations Jill, Whisenant's assistant and the Monarchs media relations team sits at one end.
L.A. Sparks are on the clock!
It's Hollis. And I'm back.
While my 'M is for Monarchs' tattoo may have faded my passion is anew as I anxiously await another exciting summer of Monarchs basketball.
With the NCAA Women's Basketball season coming to a close at the end of Tuesday's Tennessee-Stanford finale, the WNBA's 12th season tips-off with arguably the deepest pool of prospects the league has seen. While Tennessee's Candace Parker, LSU's Sylvia Fowles and Stanford's Candice Wiggins may highlight the 2008 class, general managers are expecting the talent to run deep.
"There are some nice players down there that could go in the second and third rounds and make WNBA teams, depending on needs," said Sacramento GM John Whisenant.
"With our third round picks, we’re just looking to fill in. We always need shooters, shooters on the wings"
The 2008 WNBA Draft will be held Wednesday, April 9 at 10 a.m. PDT on ESPN2. The Monarchs have the 10th pick in the first round, no second round picks (traded to Indiana for La'Tangela Atkinson on 3/23/07) and the 38th, 40th (from Indiana in a trade that sent Sacramento's 2007 first round draft pick, Jessica Dixon, to the Fever on 4/13/07) and 43rd (voided third round 2007 selection) picks to finish up the third and final round.
Be sure to check out the Monarchs Live Blog for a unique all-access look at draft day from the Monarchs "War Room."
Sacramento Monarchs own Kara Lawson took time out from covering the NCAA tourney for ESPN2 to give WNBA.com some insight into what she thinks the Monarchs might need to look for in Wednesday's draft, as well as what it takes to make the transition from college to professional sports. Click here to find out what she and other WNBA players have to say about draft day.
You can check out all of the off-season transactions here. I like to keep an eye on WNBA's Player Movement Central for all of the latest.
Make sure to be here on Opening Night! Individual tickets are on sale beginning Thursday, April 10 at 10 a.m. PDT. Click here to learn more. The Monarchs will also have some exciting special event games like Dad's & Daughter's Night, Camp Day, Women of Inspiration and, of course, the MONTYS fan appreciation game. Click here to learn more about these and all of the other special event games.
Remember, check back Wednesday and follow along with the draft from the inside.
"We did what we were supposed to do," Head Coach Jenny Boucek said.
The Monarchs went into Thursday night's battle with the Silver Stars knowing they had to win. Along the way, they decided to take their intensity and defensive pressure to new heights and completely locked down their first-round opposition, to win going-away (literally and figuratively!) 86-65.
The way the Monarchs opened the game offensively, and in the fashion in which they smothered the Silver Stars in the second half, the M in Monarchs had many meanings in Game 1.
MIGHTY for their offensive onslaught. They saw five Monarchs players score at least 10 points, including Nicole Powell's game-high 22 point outing. MESMERIZING for the leadership and vision displayed by Ticha Penicheiro running the point, handing out a game-best seven assists. One such dish was her trademark no-look taken to another level. On a fourth quarter drive, Ticha drove to the middle of the lane and found her self swarmed by three defenders. As only Ticha can, she somehow found a wide open Yolanda Griffith with an over-the-shoulder-no-look-dish, while she appeared to be looking up into the stands. As the defenders rubbed their eyes in bewilderment, the crowd all exclaimed "OOOOOOOHHHH!" As everyone came to the realization of what took place, Ticha turned toward her bench with a MEANINGFUL smile displaying the joy the Monarchs took in silencing the higher-seed Silver Stars.
M also stood for Magnificent as the Monarchs outrebounded the Silver Stars, 41-22, and outscored them in the paint, 34-20. M felt a little MANHANDLED as the struggling Silver Stars sent the home team to the charity stripe 32 times, while they only toed the free throw line 16 times.
The Monarchs are now moving on to San Antonio, where they look to take care of business one more time. The Monarchs battle the Silver Stars bright and early Saturday morning on ESPN 2 at 10 a.m.
As Nicole Powell said after the Game 1 triumph, "One down, one to go!"
Let's hear it for the Monarchs Mania at ARCO Arena and the mint defensive effort put forth by the Monarchs!
9:15 - The Monarchs have COME OUT ON TOP tonight! They needed this win on their home court where the crowd is loud, proud and all for the Monarchs! Final score is 86-65.
They can't celebrate too long, though, as they need to get their gear packed for travel and prepare themselves to face this fiesty Silver Stars team again in two days. Saturday is sure to be a tense matchup, as they all are, really. Don't miss this one, though. Tune into ESPN2 at 10 a.m. on Saturday to watch these two teams go at it again!
As usual, thank you for joining me here tonight as the Monarchs bring home the win. That's always a good time. Hope to see you hear at ARCO Arena here soon!
Take care.
9:00 - Just over two minutes to play....Monarchs are up by 18 points. Nicole Powell has a game-high 22 points right now. It seemed like it was a quiet 22 points. She is steady and focussed. Lawson, too. Kara has 16 points and Brunson has 17 points. The Monarchs will need those three to remain at the top of their game Saturday so they can defeat these same Silver Stars on their home court and move on to round 2 of the 2007 WNBA Playoffs!
8:50 - After being selected as a WNBA All-Star in 2002, 2003 and 2005, Silver Stars guard Marie Ferninand-Harris took the 2006 season off to start her family. She was one of the leaders on that team before she left. For some reason, this year, her playing time has been cut dramatically compared to what it was before she left. 32.2 minutes per game vs. this season's 14.1. In the 2005 season she averaged 12.5 points per game, significantly higher than this season's 4.8.
She has been and, I think still is, one of the fastest and most athletic players in the league right now. The only other player that stands out in my mind as comparing to her is Deanna "Tweety" Nolan with the Detroit Shock.
Ferdinand-Harris was exciting to watch and you never knew what she was going to do next. I hope she comes back next year and is given a chance to show all of that talent again.
8:46 - Remember, regardless of the outcome here tonight, there will be a game two in San Antonio on Saturday MORNING at 10 a.m. That game can be seen on ESPN2. As usual, you can also listen to it live on Sports 1140 KHTK.
8:44 - If the Monarchs want to finish out the last seven minutes with a win, they will need to find a way to contain Hammon. She is heating up. We do NOT want that process to continue. She has jumped to 14 points.
8:29 - This could be scary for the Silver Stars. All-Star guard Becky Hammon just snagged her fourth personal foul. We'll have to see where that goes. She's pleading her case to referee Sue Blauch right now, but I don't see the call changing.
As play continues, she was able to get underneath for one of her prayer shots. A succesful one.
Brunson follows that up with one of her own and gets a foul shot to go along with it.
I'll tell you what. Chelsea Newton has just been a welcome re-addition to this Monarchs team! Her defense is solid and her offensive game has gotten even better while she was away playing in Chicago.
For more on Chelsea - visit SacramentoMonarchs.com and check out the podcast we did with her earlier in the week. She shares the usual game stuff that you can get most places, but we did get her to give us some exclusive information that we didn't even know. Interesting stuff. Listen to it here!
8:25 - Powell and Young lead all scorers with 14 points and 12 points, respectively.
These refs have been getting an earful all night from San Antonio coaches. Specifically, assistant coach, Brian Agler. He's in Denise Brooks-Clauser's personal space right now, as a matter of fact.
8:15 - Heres something. When it's Monarchs ball and there's some sort of stoppage in play, ball goes out of bounds or what have you, the in-arena announcer at ARCO Arena - Jamie Coffee - always says how much time is left on the shot clock. She'll say "Monarchs ball, six seconds left on the shot clock!" If, for some reason, it's the 'other team's' ball, she'll mumble "Silver Star's ball." but doesn't announce a time. I like that. Support your team. Don't let the seconds run down on them, if you can help it!
I think it would be fun if, when it's the other team's ball, Jamie says a different time than what's actually up there. So, she would say "San Antonio's ball. Twenty-two seconds on the shot clock!" When there's only four. That would confuse them, wouldn't it? Might be a fun experiment. This might not be the night for it, though.
7:55 - There's something you don't see too often....a blocked shot by Kara Lawson! Certainly not because she can't do it, but because she's not down that low often. Riley is plahying hard. That is her third fould on the night. San Antonio may have to change their way of playing if they feel the need to take her out soon.
That's the half - Monarchs up by four, 38-34. That was a crazy first half! Sacramento came out on fire and I think it shook the Silver Stars up a little bit. However, in the second quarter, the Silver Stars seemed to catch up to the Monarchs level of enery. Or did the Monarchs come down to the Silver Stars level? In either case, the Monarchs will need to pick up the intensity for this second half. They will also need to put in a full two quarters if they want to have a chance of coming away with the first game of this round 1 best-of-three series.
7:50 - Just over three minutes to play in the half and the Silver Star's Sophia Young and Sacramento's Nicole Powell are leading all scorers with eight apeice.
7:38 - Riley seems to be feeling better. She is taking shots and blocking shots per her usual style.
Some Kings are in the house tonight, too. Let me see....assistant coaches Chuck Person and Randy Brown, and Ron Artest is sitting comfortably under San Antonio's basket. WNBA President Donna Orender is also here tonight. Again, she likes us best.
7:30 - That's it for the first quarter. Monarchs are up by 10, 24-14.
Also - you may or may not have noticed that Chelsea has got some cotton in her ear. Word is she's got a head cold and it helps with congestion. Plus, she says, it's just so loud in here! I say let's get louder! She's already got the cotton...so she's covered!
7:26 - "M" update....(don't worry, I won't continue these all night!") Haynie = left upper arm Robinson = right shoulder Powell = right shoulder Lawson = left leg
Seriously. Team participation. That is a great thing to see.
7:22 - I did, however, mention Erin Buescher earlier. She has been sidelined with a torn ACL for the last part of the season. Tonight, she is joining her San Antonio television crew and looks to be helping out as a color analyst.
I knew it was time to get excited again when Scholanda Robinson checked in. You just can't help but cheer her on. She plays with such passion and focus!
7:20 - I didn't mention the Silver Star's Helen Darling earlier. She tends to be kind of quiet. Passing the ball and running the floor mostly. But, at this point, she's got all seven of her team's points.
Vickie Johnson finally stepped up and scored her first two. Monarchs 12, Silver Stars 9.
7:13 - I'm going to start calling her "Playoff Ticha" if this keeps up! She's got four points and seems to be hitting on all cylinders so far. Six and a half minutes left in the first and the Monarchs are up by five, 10 - 5.
Monarchs have 5 steals so far and are shooting 55% to the Silver Star's 20%.
"M" tattoo update - Bekky B's got hers on her left tricep and Yo has another one her forearm. DeMya's in the mix, as well. She's got hers on her shoulder blade. Become part of the TEAM! Show us your M!
7:07 - Seconds to tip-off! Biting my nails aready. Looking around the arena, those silver thunderstix are slamming! The look pretty cool out there. Hope they distract the Silver Stars. Though they may be used to things shimmering...shiny baubles.
Also, across the way is are Joe and Gavin Maloof, in their usual seats, next to John Whisenant, his wife and their son. Joe looks to wearing a Yolanda Griffith jersey. He's looking good!
If you received your "M" tattoos on your way into the arena tonight, you'll be in good company if you've got them applied somewhere on yourself. Yo has planted hers on her right calf.
6:43 - anticipated starting lineups are in: Nicole Powell vs. Vickie Johnson Rebekkah Brunson vs. Sophia Young Yolanda Griffith vs. Ruth Riley Chelsea Newton vs. Helen Darling Ticha Penicheiro vs. Becky Hammon
Key matchups - you know 'em. Becky Hammon against...anyone. She has an awesome outside shot and can sink it handily from out there. Very difficult to guard. Even more difficult because she is small enough and just quick enough to sneak to the basket and toss up a prayer. Usually a good chance that's going in....along with a foul shot or two.
Sophia Young and Rebekkah Brunson. Keep your eyes on those two tonight. It's going to be hard not to! These are two of the up-and-coming stars in this league. Brunson was voted to the All-Star game this season. Due to a calf injury, however, she was not able to play in the game. Ironically, it was Young who was chosen to head to Washington on the spur of the moment to take Brunson's place in the game.
Ruth Riley and Yolanda. Riley has been touch and go this season, due to a foot injury, I believe. She sat out the last time these two teams tipped-off in ARCO Arena. Named MVP in the 2003 WNBA Finals, Riley can be a force. I'm curious to see how she stacks up tonight.
5:30 p.m. - Welcome back, Monarchs fans! Are you as anxious as I am tonight? I bet you are. The Monarchs will face the San Antonio Silver Stars in Game 1 of the first-round of the 2007 WNBA Playoffs! I love it that Sacramento is in the playoffs this season, but I always feel a little melancholy this time of year. After all, the playoffs signify the winding down of the season. Sigh.
Anyway, enough of that. I tend to look too far ahead and sometimes forget the present. Which, in this case, is a highly anticipated matchup! The Monarchs and the Silver Stars have split their season series with both teams winning two games on their home court. That statistic bodes well for the Monarchs who, obviously, are the home team this evening.
They cannot take San Antonio for granted, however, as they have had a breakout season this year. For those teams that did not anticipate the Silver Stars to be in the running when the season began, they have to be a bit shocked (no pun intended, trust me!).
The offseason aqcuisitions of Ruth Riley, Becky Hammon and our very own ex-Monarch, Erin Buescher have led the surge for their team to reach the second seed in the west. Not an easy task. In fact, it was uncertain until the very last game of the season where San Antonio and Sacramento would end up in their conference.
After tonight, the rest of the first round will be played in San Antonio. In order to move into the next round, Sacramento will have to shake off the bug that has been with them on the Silver Stars home court this season. I know they can do it. I'm sure you do, too!
So, tip-off is in about an hour. Get to your seats and hold them tight! It's bound to be a bumpy night. Just ask Chelsea Newton. We'll see how many bumps she has at the end of the game.
Hang tight. I'll be back with your starting lineups!
