Indiana University Athletics
Q & A With Coach Versyp
7/26/2005 12:00:00 AM | Women's Basketball
July 26, 2005
Q: Do you see this team being a very good defensive team?
A: I don't know quite yet. We have only had two weeks to work with the players. IU, in the past has been very strong defensively, so we want to continue to keep that. We still want to be one of the top teams defensively. But we also need to score points.
Q: Is getting easier baskets one of the goals of the team this year?
A: I think that is a big key. If you are going to be one of the best defensive teams, then chances are other teams aren't scoring field goals. So, we have to get the ball and run a little bit. We are going to attack the basket and have really good shot selections.
Q: Have you seen much film since you have gotten here?
A: I haven't touched any film. Right now I have to recruit and worry about my players. That focus may be in the fall, but sometimes I don't really like going back and watching tape as a new coach. I like things to start fresh. I'm going to have a new system and a new philosophy.
Q: Can you elaborate about your style and philosophy?
A: It stems from defense first. That is why I was really excited to be the coach here, because defense has always been a priority here and it will continue to be. We need to be one of the best defensive field goal percentage and rebounding teams. When you do that, then you have the ability to run. When we run, we are going to be under control. We are going to attack the basket and try to get to the free throw line. Those are the keys for my philosophy and my style through my years of coaching.
Q: Do you feel good about the way recruiting is going?
A: Yes. When you come in in April, you kind of feel like you are a little bit behind the eight-ball. I think we have done exceptionally well. It's going in the right direction. We do have needs. Point guards and post players. I feel like we are doing a great job right now. Things are going super.
Q: Is playing Baylor as an opener a good way to get the fans excited?
A: Absolutely. Last year when IU went to Baylor, we only lost by 13 and it was early. To have the national champs come in, along with a new staff and style, it should generate a lot of excitement. We have nothing to lose. All we have is everything to gain. I think that game should really be the kickoff to what can and will be our upcoming season.
Q: Can you talk about your staff a little bit?
A: My staff is fantastic. Jody Benner has been in college coaching for 12 years. He really helped develop Maine when he was there. He is a great recruiter, and a great communicator. He is also great with the student-athletes. Martin Clapp is probably the most experienced coach besides myself. He has that head coaching experience after being at Louisville, which is great. He has that experience and can help during game situations with `x's' and `o's'. Nadine Morgan is above and beyond what I thought she would be. I knew she would be great, but she's even better. She is one of the young people in the business that will really make something of herself. That's why I brought her here. I recruited her as a player. She knows how to sell herself and the Indiana program. She is great with the student-athletes too. She is one of the great young minds of the game.
