LSU Women's Basketball http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com The Lady Tiger Way - Official Blog posterous.com Mon, 11 Oct 2010 17:26:00 -0700 Temeka hits the golf course to help battle breast cancer http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/temeka-hits-the-golf-course-to-help-battle-br http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/temeka-hits-the-golf-course-to-help-battle-br

TEMEKA JOHNSON: Today was such a joyous day. I had the privilege and the honor to participate in this year's Women's Victory Open. Momma Sherie (Starkey) invited me to be a "celebrity putter" and despite my lack of golf experience I knew I wanted to support this terrific cause.  This event is put on to raise money for breast cancer for the women of the area. While there I learned that over the past eleven to twelve years there have been close to 1 million dollars that has been raised through this event. There were so many women there to support this fund raiser as well as participate in the Golfing. They all were having a blast. I saw so many women that have been breast cancer survivers for 1 year to as far as 24 years. I was amazed. To be in the presence of such strong, fighting, never gving up, supportive women, I couldnt ask for a better way to start off my Monday morning. These are the kind of event that one just enjoy doing. I was truly happy to be there!

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Fri, 24 Sep 2010 03:43:00 -0700 An amazing evening, an incredible facility, a lot of people to thank! http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/an-amazing-evening-an-incredible-facility-a-l http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/an-amazing-evening-an-incredible-facility-a-l

BOB STARKEY: Yesterday was a very special day for me personally as we officially opened the doors to our new practice facility.  With over 20 years of coaching at LSU, I have split that time between the men’s program and the women’s program.  Ushering a new era in yesterday represented a major step forward for both programs that mean so much to me and that have played such a pivotal role in my development as a coach and as a person.

The most significant thing to me was that those who have already worn the LSU jersey know that they are the major reason that the facility was built.  Certainly it will be of great benefit to future basketball players and coaches at LSU but the importance and relevance of LSU Basketball comes from our past – the legacy left by so many.

The first two that come to mind are Dale Brown and Sue Gunter.  I have been extremely blessed to have worked for both and know the time, sweat and tears that were needed to take their respective programs from obscurity to elite status.  I made sure Coach Brown was one of the first people I thanked at the ceremony yesterday.  At the end of the evening Coach Brown, myself and Rudy Macklin walked back into Sue Gunter Basketball Complex and stood in front of Coach Gunter’s statue and shared some great stories about her.  Spending time with Coach Brown and finding time to talk about Coach Gunter made the evening extremely special for me.

There were some alumni there from both teams.  For the women, Temeka Johnson, April Brown, Miriam Farr Segar and Flo Williams were in attendance.  From the men’s side, I saw Rudy, Ricky Blanton, Collis Temple and Randy Livingston (whom I coached).  I wish every former player could’ve been there yesterday.  It is so important to me that they know this building is a part of what they accomplished.  Our staff is going to work hard to make sure that our alumni know that we appreciated them and the price they paid to make yesterday happen.

I also thought about Skip Bertman, our past athletic director who pushed so hard to get us the practice facility and I fully recognize that it wasn’t easy in these difficult times.  But the coach in him knew the importance to us from the recruiting standpoint as well as for maximum teaching potential.  Judy Southard crossed my mind as well – our former SWA who was a part of Skip’s staff and knew that to be an elite program you must have elite facilities.

I am especially thankful that Eddie Nunez was on our senior staff and headed up this project.  As a collegiate player and coach he had a great awareness for every single aspect involved in the process.  He diligently went through every task involved with great attention to detail to make it truly one of the best practice facilities in the nation. And a big thanks as well to Joe Alleva who came in as our AD in the middle of the project and with his support helped us complete it in a first class fashion.

Finally, I thought about so many of our fans, especially the Fast Break Club, that have worked hard in so many ways to help us upgrade our facilities and I know they will be very proud of this one.  We are working on plans to have our Tip-Off Party in the near future so that they will get a chance to take in this amazing facility.

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:21:00 -0700 Meek & Roneeka in televised play-off clash tonight http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/meek-roneeka-in-televised-play-off-clash-toni http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/meek-roneeka-in-televised-play-off-clash-toni

Temeka Johnson and her Phoenix Mercury teammates begin their quest of defending last year's World Championship tonight when they host San Antonio and Roneeka Hodges.  Action begins at 8:00 PM CST on ESPN2

Phoenix/San Antonio Pre-Game Story: http://bit.ly/aQCljt

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Sat, 14 Aug 2010 07:08:00 -0700 Merucry waste 23 point outburst by Meek http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/merucry-waste-23-point-outburst-by-meek http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/merucry-waste-23-point-outburst-by-meek

Temeka Johnson poured in 23 points with 10 of 16 shooting including 3 of 5 from behind the 3-point line but it wasn't enough as Indiana defeated Phoenix 110-90.  Despite losing their 3rd straight, the defending champions locked up a play-off bid due to Minnesota's loss.

Phoneix/Indiana Box: http://bit.ly/9TvLj2

Seimone Augustus had a rough shooting night hitting only 4 of 12 for 8 points and Minnesota fell on the road to Washington 61 to 58.  The loss keeps the Lynx tied for the last play off spot with the Los Angeles Sparks.

Minnesota/Washington Box: http://bit.ly/9C1QVx

Scholanda Robinson lead Tulsa with 14 points but the Shock still fell short to San Antonio losing 94-74.  Roneeka Hodges pitched in 10 points to help the Stars to the victory.

Tulsa/San Antonio Box: http://bit.ly/c7HT5g

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Tue, 10 Aug 2010 06:26:00 -0700 Marie on ESPN2 with a big night of Lady Tiger action in the WNBA http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/marie-on-espn2-with-a-big-night-of-lady-tiger http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/marie-on-espn2-with-a-big-night-of-lady-tiger

Connecticut (Allison Hightower) at Washington at 6 PM (NBA TV)

Preview: http://bit.ly/9G5bGS

Phoenix (Temeka Johnson) at Chicago (Sylvia Fowles) at 7 PM

Preview: http://bit.ly/bh3ncr

Minnesota (Seimone Augustus) at San Antonio (Roneeka Hodges) at 7 PM

Preview: http://bit.ly/ajrUl6

Indiana at Los Angeles (Marie Ferdinand-Harris) at 9 PM (ESPN2)

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Sat, 07 Aug 2010 09:04:00 -0700 Meek and Marie stay red hot in WNBA http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/meek-and-marie-stay-red-hot-in-wnba http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/meek-and-marie-stay-red-hot-in-wnba

The Phoenix Mercury and Temeka Johnson stayed red-hot, defeating San Antonio last night 103-87.  The Mercury have not lost since the release of Meek's children's book ("Decisions, Decisions, Decisions") winning four straight. 

The point guard has been on a tear herself.  Against the Stars, Meek was 7 for 13 from the floor, 3 for 3 from the line for 17 points.

Phoenix/San Antonio Box: http://bit.ly/9jQ37r

Also on fire of late is Marie Ferdinand-Harris.  Marie blistered the nets for 7 of 10 made field goals last night to help Los Angeles defeat Tulsa. She his 1 of 2 from behind the arc and was a perfect 3 for 3 at the free throw line for 18 points.

Scholanda Robinson had 8 points, 3 boards and 3 assists for the Shock.

Los Angeles/Tulsa Box: http://bit.ly/abiEOk

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Thu, 05 Aug 2010 08:59:00 -0700 Show LSU Lady Tiger spirit and help WNBA raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/show-lsu-lady-tiger-spirit-and-help-wnba-rais http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/show-lsu-lady-tiger-spirit-and-help-wnba-rais

The WNBA is raising funds for the Jimmy V Cancer Foundation through an internet auction and you can show your LSU spirit while supporting a great cause.

Each WNBA team has a commemorative pink WNBA basketball autographed by their team.  For you LSU fans keeping score this would include Chicago (Sylvia Fowles), Connecticut (Allison Hightower), Los Angeles (Marie Ferdinand-Harris), Minnesota (Seimone Augustus), Phoenix (Temeka Johnson), San Antonio (Roneeka Hodges), and Tulsa (Scholanda Robinson).

There is also individually autographed basketballs including one by Seimone and one by Syl.

Check out all the Breast Cancer Awareness auction items at: http://bit.ly/dlnu51

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Sun, 01 Aug 2010 20:32:00 -0700 Syl has career high 35, Meek wins to kick off "Night of HOPE" http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/syl-has-career-high-35-meek-wins-to-kick-off http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/syl-has-career-high-35-meek-wins-to-kick-off

BOB STARKEY: It was an amazing last day on my trip to Phoenix.  First, an incredible game between Pheonix and Chicago that wasn't resovled until the final seconds. Temeka Johnson ran her team, helping them come from behind with 6 points and 6 assists.  It was Phoenix's second consecutive win.  But the best player on the floor tonight was Sylvia Fowles.  Big Syl poured in 35 points to go along with 8 boards, 2 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks. Sylvia scored 12 of her career-high 35 in the fourth quarter as she tried to will her team to victory.

I was very proud of both of these Lady Tigers for how well they played the game and hard they competed.  They should make all of us proud that they are representing LSU.

Following the game it was a "Night of HOPE," the second annual event put on by Temeka's HOPE Foundation.  This year the event coincided with the release of the book she co-wrote with Quency Phillips entitled, "Decisions, Decisions, Decisions."  The event was held Majerle's Resaurant, owned by former Phoenix Suns standout Dan Majerle (who attended today's game).

There were tons of Phoenix fans there along with all of Meek's teammates including her coach Corey Gaines and team President Annie Meyers Drysdale.  Some of the Sky team came as well including Big Syl.  All the proceeds from the "Night of HOPE" goes to Meek's foundation and by the look of the event it was a huge success!

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Sat, 31 Jul 2010 20:10:00 -0700 Lady Tigers take to NBA TV tomorrow in WNBA action http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/lady-tigers-take-to-nba-tv-tomorrow-in-wnba-a http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/lady-tigers-take-to-nba-tv-tomorrow-in-wnba-a

Big day of action in the WNBA including a lot of Lady Tigers and a lot of action on NBA TV.

Allison Hightower and Connecticut play in New York at 3:00 CST

Scholanda Robinson and Tulsa play at Washington at 3:00 CST (NBA TV)

Sylvia Fowles and Chicago are in Phoenix to play Temeka Johnson and the Mercury at 5:00 CST (NBA TV)

Seimone Augustus and Minnesota host the WNBA's best Seattle Storm at 6:00 CST (NBA TV).

Nba_tv_logo

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Sat, 31 Jul 2010 19:08:00 -0700 Meek (w/help from Syl) to host "Night of HOPE" tomorrow http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/meek-whelp-from-syl-to-host-night-of-hope-tom http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/meek-whelp-from-syl-to-host-night-of-hope-tom

BOB STARKEY: Another reason I selected this time to come to Pheonix (besides getting to spend some time with Meek, Mone and Syl), was to be a part of Meek's "Night of HOPE."  It is the second year she has put on this event and this year it coincides with the release of her children's book "Decisions, Decisions, Decisions."

The event takes place tomorrow following the Mercury's game against Chicago which will allow Sylvia to take part in the festivities.  Here is more information via a release sent out:

For the second consecutive year, Phoenix Mercury Point Guard, Temeka Johnson, will host "Night of HOPE". This HOPE Foundation event allows the foundation to connect with local sponsors, donors and philanthropic minds, as we work together to find solutions to the community issues within the Phoenix area. Last year’s event was a resounding success, and this year we expect even more.

With an unique experience in a luxury suite at US Airways Arena, guests will interact with foundation officials throughout the game, with a special post-game meet-and-greet with Temeka Johnson and her teammates. This year, the foundation will also have an off-site event which will act as a fundraiser for the foundation. The highlight of the event will be the launch of Ms. Johnson’s “Meek Moments” children’s book which will launch on August 1st. The post-game event will be held at the well-known Majerle’s restaurant, adjacent to the arena.

There will be a special signing for those that pre-ordered the Meek Moments book (available at www.MeeksHOPE.org - Shop4HOPE), as well as give-aways. Guests will meet Temeka’s teammates, with a special appearance by the Chicago Sky’s Sylvia Fowles, and be able to obtain autographed memorabilia through a special auction. Join us as we continue to make an impact in the Phoenix community!

Tickets for the post-game event are $25, and are available on the HOPE Foundation site (www.MeeksHOPE.org). All proceeds will go directly to the HOPE Foundation, to initiate the Phoenix-area scholarship fund (more details will be announced at the event). A special Community Champion package (includes an autographed book, posters, and Team Meek tshirt) will be available with a $100 donation to the foundation.

“Phoenix is my second home,” said Johnson. “I am committed to the city, just as I am to my foundation. With the launch of my children’s book, I’m very excited about the overall future - not only for HOPE, but also for the people that we reach. This event makes all that we do possible!”

Night of HOPE has set a goal to raise $5,000 through foundation merchandise sales (www.MeeksHOPE.org) and donations small and large. The donations will be used to help assist 2 Phoenix-area students with a scholarship for the 2011/2012 school year. The foundation will announce the inaugural scholarship winners (awarded to an LSU student) in Baton Rouge, at the end of August 2010. For updates and more information, please stay tuned to www.MeeksHOPE.org. You may also follow Temeka on twitter (@Quickdeuce) for consistent news and updates.

Meeks_book_cover

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Thu, 29 Jul 2010 23:17:00 -0700 A great evening with a special post game meal http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/a-great-evening-with-a-special-post-game-meal http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/a-great-evening-with-a-special-post-game-meal

BOB STARKEY: It was a great evening -- watching Seimone Augustus and Temeka Johnson do what they love so much -- play basketball.

The evening started with 10 great minutes talking to Annie Meyers-Drysdale.  Besides being one of the all-time greats in the history of women's basketball, she is currently the General Manager and soon to be President of the Phoenix Mercury.  She is also a huge LSU Lady Tiger fan because of her relationship with Sue Gunter.  Coach Gunter coached her in the Olympics and Annie has remained a friend of our program since.

The game was fast-paced, via the Phoenix system.  The Mercury's first basket of the game came from a long thread-the-need pass from Meek to Taurasi.  The Lynx answered right back with their first basket coming from a baseline floater from Mone.  One minute into the game and I was having some great flashbacks.

The night would belong to Phoenix. They would set the WNBA record with most points in a half by pouring in 69.  Meek flirted with a triple-double with 8 points, 8 boards and 8 assists in only 18 minutes.  Mone scored 13 points while grabbing 4 boards.

But the best part of the night was post-game.  Going with Meek and Mone to Fez, a local Pheonix eatery.  It was special listening to them talk about the WNBA, different teams and players and hearing all that they know and had learned.  They are professional basketball players -- by the strictest terms.

Of course they wanted to know about the Lady Tigers and how hard they were working this summer and what kind of season might we have coming.  It was great to hear them talk about what they saw in analyzing our team last year and what we needed to grow.

I'm so very proud of these two young women -- not just because they have forged their basketball gift from God -- but because of the people they have grown to be -- caring about each other and their respective communities.

Both have causes very near to their hearts and we will blog about that later but it speaks to who they are and what they become -- it's speaks to the Lady Tiger Way and a tremendous legacy that they have left for our future student-athletes.

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:15:00 -0700 A bomb-sniffing dog, bull horn instructions and one smokin' HOT city http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/a-bomb-sniffing-dog-bull-horn-instructions-an http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/a-bomb-sniffing-dog-bull-horn-instructions-an

BOB STARKEY: Sitting in my hotel in Phoenix with a beautiful view of the city as well as the mountains on the outskirts (see photo below).  I had a great day of travel with great flights -- those that know how much I dislike flying know what a great day I had -- though it wasn't without incident.  While sitting during a layover in the Dallas Airport, I felt the something cold on my hand only to turn and see the nose of a german shepherd.  Further review saw he was attached to two security officers.  I simply said, "What's up guys?"  I was then told I was sitting beside a piece of abandoned luggage so they brought in the bomb-sniffing dog. I looked at the mysterious suitcase within three feet of me and asked "Should I not be sitting here then?"  The reply was "Probably."

Then on the flight from Dallas to Phoenix the flight attendant stepped out with a bull horn to give us our saftey instructions explaining that speaker system in the plane was not working.  I then prayed that would be the only mechinical failure today.

I spent part of my layover in Dallas tweeting with Seimone to remind her that we'd be going to dinner after the game tomorrow night.  I actually got to Phoenix before Temeka who played in Seattle last night.  Not sure what kind of mood she'll be in after her team lost a lead and a difficult game last night.

Oh, and one other thing -- IT'S HOT!  About a week ago I ran into a couple of our Fast Break Club members, Mona Ragan and Karen Miller and told them of my planned trip to Arizona and we spoke about the head.  Karen told me not to worry as it would be "a dry heat."  Then she laughed.  I think she knew!

From_hotel_room

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:48:00 -0700 Road trip to Phoenix to see Meek, Mone and Syl http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/road-trip-to-phoenix-to-see-meek-mone-and-syl http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/road-trip-to-phoenix-to-see-meek-mone-and-syl

COACH BOB STARKEY: Leaving out of Baton Rouge tomorrow morning heading to Pheonix, Arizona.  I'm quite sure I won't be complaining about the Louisiana heat when I get back. 

It will be a pilgrimage of sorts for me -- going to watch arguable the three most influential Lady Tigers of all time compete on professional level over the course of four days.

On July 29th and I will watch Temeka Johnson and Phoenix host Seimone Augustus and the Minnesota Lynx.  There's a good chance that the two will rope me out of a free meal.  I'll then stay for a few more days where I will have a chance to be a part of the launch of Temeka's children's book "Decisions, Decisions, Decsicions."  I'll then stay for the August 1 showdown between Meek and Sylvia Fowles' Chicago Sky.  I'm also looking forward to spending time with basketball great and Phoenix General Manager Annie Meyers Drysdale.  Annie is a dear friend introduced to me by Coach Gunter (who coached on the 1976 Olympic Team).  I'm really looking forward to the trip and will be blogging constantly during the trip so stay tuned to "The Lady Tiger Way Blog" (or the Lady Tiger Facebook page or my twitter page) to find out what's up with these Lady Tiger alums. 

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Tue, 27 Jul 2010 07:33:00 -0700 Lady Tigers all in action today in the WNBA http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/lady-tigers-all-in-action-today-in-the-wnba http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/lady-tigers-all-in-action-today-in-the-wnba

Big day in the WNBA with all 12 teams playing.  Translation?  All the Lady Tigers in the W will also be in action!

12:30 PM CST: Scholanda Robinson and Tulsa host Atlanta (you can catch this game on NBA TV)

6:00 PM CST: Sylvia Fowles and Chicago tip-off against Indiana

6:30 PM CST: Allison Hightower wlecomes Washington to Connecticut

6:30 PM CST: San Antonio and Roneeka Hodges plays at New York (ESPN2)

7:00 PM CST: Marie Ferdinand-Harris and the LA Sparks travel to Minnesota to play against Seimone Augustus

8:30 PM CST: Temeka Johnson and Pheonix travel to Seattle to play the leagues best (ESPN2)

Wnba_ball

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Sun, 25 Jul 2010 09:43:00 -0700 Lady Tigers all over stat leaders in WNBA; Big Syl most efficient http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/lady-tigers-all-over-stat-leaders-in-wnba-big http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/lady-tigers-all-over-stat-leaders-in-wnba-big

SCORING: Desptie missing the early part of the season with surgery, Seimone Augustus is currently 6th in the WNBA in scoring at 19.2 points a game.  Right behind her in the 7th spot is Sylvia Fowles at 18 points a game.  Scholanda Robinson ranks 30th with 11.8 points a game.

WNBA SCORING STATS: http://bit.ly/b7EnUo

REBOUNDING: Sylvia Fowles is 4th in the WNBA in rebounding grabbing 12.7 boards a game.

WNBA REBOUNDING STATS: http://bit.ly/d0iGxe

FG%: Syl is 5th in FG% among players in 10 games or more hitting 58.9% of her shots.  Mone is 37th hitting 47.5%

WNBA FG% STATS: http://bit.ly/cGS2fO

BLOCKED SHOTS: Big Syl leads the W with 2.75 swats a game.

WNBA BLOCKED SHOTS: http://bit.ly/9l02Lw

3 PT SHOOTING %: Believe it or not, Big Syl leads the WNBA in 3-Point Shooting % after hitting her only attempt this past weekend for a perfect 100%. Seimone, shooting 41.9% is ranked 20th.  Roneeka Hodges is his hitting 34.7 and is ranked 49th.

WNBA 3 PT SHOOTING %: http://bit.ly/aehp4P

ASSISTS: Temeka Johnson is 4th in the WNBA in assists at 5.36.

WNBA ASSISTS: http://bit.ly/d0MDnD

STEALS: Scholanda Robinson is 20th in the WNBA in steals at 1.5.

WNBA STEALS: http://bit.ly/9LenYQ

DOUBLE DOUBLES: Big Syl is second in the WNBA in double-doubles with 11.  Temeka Johnson is 12th with 3 but doing it the hard way with points and assists -- she is first among guards.

WNBA DOUBLE-DOUBLES: http://bit.ly/abksuT

EFFICIENCY: In arguably the most important statistical category as it combines all the others, the WNBA is leader is Sylvia Fowles with a rating of 25.2! Seimone Augustus ranks 16th with a rating of 15.0. Temeka Johnson is 40th at 10.3

WNBA EFFICIENCY: http://bit.ly/cbJYqd

Wnba_lsu_report

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Sun, 25 Jul 2010 09:17:00 -0700 Mone, Syl, Marie, Meek and Sho shine in big weekend in WNBA http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/mone-syl-marie-meek-and-sho-shine-in-big-week http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/mone-syl-marie-meek-and-sho-shine-in-big-week

Starting back to Thursday the Los Angeles Sparks defeated Tulsah 86-83 with Marie Ferdinand-Harris hitting 2 of 3 behind the 3-point arc.  The Shock were lead by Scholanda Robinson who poured in 19 points.

LA/Tulsa Box: http://bit.ly/byQqVI

On Friday, the Chicago Sky lost a tough one to the New York Liberty but not because of the effort of Sylvia Fowles.  Big Syl registered yet another double-double with  12 points and 16 43bounds to go long with 4 blocked shots.

Chicago/NY Box: http://bit.ly/c8awgS

Yesterday, LA registered another win as the Sparks hit 15 three-pointers in the game.  Part of the credit for the long-range success belongs to Marie who again hit 2 of 3 behind the act as LA defeated Connecticut 89-80.

LA/Connecticut Box: http://bit.ly/bs4Lh7

Sylvia Fowles scored 23 points and the Chicago Sky overcame an eight-point deficit in the final 3:10 to beat the San Antonio Silver Stars 75-72 on Saturday night.  The Sky have won four of their last five. Roneeka Hodges scored 13 points  to lead the Silver Stars (8-14). Hodges missed a potential tying 3 and Fowles grabbed the rebound as time expired.

Chicago/San Antonio Box: http://bit.ly/9P9Ee7

Despite a season-high 36 points from Seimone Augustus, the Phoenix Mercury set the WNBA scoring record with a 127-124 victory over the Minnesota Lynx on Saturday night.  In one of the most exciting games of the season, the Mercury, lead by Temeka Johnson among others, rallied from 14 points down in the 4th quarter.

Augustus scored 15 points in the third quarter to key a Minnesota rush after Phoenix got within four points early in the second half.

A pair of long jumpers by Augustus sandwiched around one of her five 3-pointers gave the Lynx a 79-66 lead. After Phoenix scored six straight, Augustus hit another long jumper to put Minnesota up nine.

Augustus scored seven of Minnesota's points during a 13-4 run for a 45-28 lead midway through the second quarter. Phoenix used a 10-2 run to pull to 54-47 at halftime.

Meek scored 7 points and added a game high 9 assists including a key long pass to start the Mercury comeback.

Pheonix/Minnesota Box: http://bit.ly/c5dQ6q

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Tue, 20 Jul 2010 10:50:00 -0700 Meek serves as official blog for White House website http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/meek-serves-as-official-blog-for-white-house http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/meek-serves-as-official-blog-for-white-house

During yesterday's visit to the White House, Temeka Johnson got to serve as the official blogger for the Mercury's visit on the White House' official page:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/07/20/honoring-wnba-champion-phoenix-mercury

Here is what she had to say but click on the link above for the original story along more photos and video.

Ed. Note: Yesterday President Obama honored WNBA Champion Phoenix Mercury at the White House. In his remarks, the President congratulated the team on winning their second WNBA title and thanked them for their extraordinary service. The team is committed to serving the Phoenix community -– from putting on basketball camps for children of veterans to collecting clothes for the homeless. Yesterday, the team continued that commitment at the White House by holding a clinic as part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! initiative to help young people live healthy and active lives. We caught up with Phoenix Mercury point guard Tameka Johnson following her visit. Here is what she had to say:

Today’s experience at the White House is hard to put into words, but if I could use one word, it would be inspiring! My Phoenix Mercury teammates and I were honored by President Obama and his administration for winning the 2009 WNBA Championship. It was a great experience and a moment a lot of us have been waiting for. You play to win championships, but to be honored by our President is a dream come true. This is not a dream that we normally have, but it feels like the icing on the cake. We are all inspired to do it again and get back here this time next year!

In just a few hours, my teammates and I learned so much. Seeing the Vermeil Room, the Blue Room, the Red Room, etc., and learning about the history and all that has gone on in the White House was amazing. Forgive me if I use “amazing” too many times in this blog! LOL – Seriously, this has been amazing.

To see how much this administration is involved in community service is beautiful to witness. Everyone knows that in my spare time I’m devoted to helping others through my Heaven Opens People’s Eyes (HOPE) Foundation, so being able to participate in a basketball clinic for children on the White House courts was an experience that’s hard to capture in this blog.

Playing with the kids and my teammates, it felt so natural. It’s important for us to address the challenge of childhood obesity by staying active. Whether it’s a jog through the park, shooting hoops, or spending a few hours outside playing with your friends rather than inside watching TV or playing video games, it all matters. Let’s Move! is a great initiative that our First Lady has started, and I’m glad to be a part of it. Staying active is part my new children’s book, Meek Moments! It’s a lifestyle, not a recess break! Let’s Move America! We can fight childhood obesity, one activity at a time!

President_obama_shakes_hands_with_temeka_johnson

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Tue, 20 Jul 2010 05:55:00 -0700 Meek's White House visit represented more than just a special moment http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/meeks-white-house-visit-represented-more-than http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/meeks-white-house-visit-represented-more-than

BOB STARKEY: As a coach, it was an extremely proud moment for me to see Temeka at the White House, visiting with President Obama.  To many it looked like a very special moment but to me it was a process-related event.  It was yet another indicator of what an individual can accomplish regardless of circumstances.  Temeka spending and afternoon at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue was accumulation of years of hard work -- both on the court and in the classroom.  It shows a tremendous vision on her part.  Visiting the White House was simply something that she had dreamed about only to wake up and go to work towards achieving that dream.  For Meek, it was also about overcoming barriers.  Many thought her too short to play high school basketball, must less elite college level basketball and then professional basketball.  And what those few special moments depicted yesterday was dedication, commitment, and overcoming adversity.  And for so many she had created a road map for them to follow and given them some that is very special to her -- HOPE!

Video of Meek at the White House: http://ht.ly/2dEfv

Merc_obama3_1007191

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:34:00 -0700 Temeka Johnson, Living The Obama Dream http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/temeka-johnson-living-the-obama-dream http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/temeka-johnson-living-the-obama-dream

The following comes from writer Seth Pollack of the Desert Dirt in Arizona:

Winning a championship in sports comes with a lot of perks. You get your ring. You get a banner. You might even get a trip to Disneyland. But without question, the biggest bonus has to be a trip to the White House to meet the President.

There's only one professional basketball team from Arizona who's had that thrill and today they are making a return visit. But this time instead of a Texas oilman greeting them, the Phoenix Mercury will be meeting one of their heroes: President Barak Obama.

In the Mercury locker room near the door is a monthly calendar showing game and practice dates, perhaps a team meeting, the things you might expect a team calendar to contain.

On today's date it simply reads, "Obama".

Star-divide

Mercury point guard Temeka Johnson is one of my all-time favorite athletes. At 5-foot-3 she's one of the shortest players in the WNBA but competes with the ferocity of lion. She understands the game as well as anyone and is destined to coach someday if that's where her heart leads. Of the court, the Meek's Hope Foundation embodies her dedication to helping those around her and is driven by her passion and tenacity and not by a multi-million dollar contract. 

When I think of President Obama's message of hope, there's no athlete that embodies that spirit more than Johnson. I imagine when these two meet today there will be an immediate connection and recognition of similar values, iron will and common purpose.

"A lot of people ask this question about what it means to me," Johnson said about the visit. "I remember my grandfather, my great-grandmother, my Grandmother - they never even thought this day would ever come. For me to actually see him and meet him first hand is a huge honor for me, an unforgettable moment. And to go for the reason we're going, everybody doesn't get that opportunity either."

Congratulations to Temeka and the entire 2009 Phoenix Mercury team.

Obama_2

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey
Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:45:00 -0700 Meek Visits The White House: Blog Entry #5 http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/meek-visits-the-white-house-blog-entry-5 http://lsuwbkb.posterous.com/meek-visits-the-white-house-blog-entry-5

TEMEKA JOHNSON: One thing that President Obama said to us that stood out and made us feel good was  "As a father, I thank you for being great role models."  Now that gives us a little perspective as to what we do.  Time to get out of the dress clothes and get into our "work clothes."

Meek_on_white_house_lawn

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http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/566494/lsucoachstarkey.jpg http://posterous.com/users/5ALKlEihyfjb Bob Starkey Bob Starkey - Assistant Head Coach Bob Starkey