Brian: Focus on SamO

For those interested in checking up on Sam Ostarello at Purdue, the Purdue Womens Basketball web page has a focus on Sam: http://www.purduesports.com/sports/w-baskbl/spec-rel/021810aaa.html

Props to former Stanley Co. AD Guy Hunter (Steeler fan), who was mentioned, but not directly named, in this article as a driving force behind Sam's love for the game and desire to excel. And small props to anyone (like radio announcers) who ever held on to Sam's #32 necklace (also mentioned in the article), and didn't lose it, while she played ball in high school. :o)

For the season, Sam has posted good freshman numbers, averaging 5 points and a team-leading 5 rebounds a game, in about 17 minutes per game on average. Some games, she has had a lot more production than others, like 13 rebounds against Penn St. last Sunday, or 14 points and 7 boards in the team's biggest win of the year, over Ohio St. on Jan. 25. There have been down games as well, based on matchups and things like that, and her shooting percentages could use some improvement, but all in all, every indication I have seen or heard is that the coaching staff couldn't be happier with what they're getting out of South Dakota's reigning Miss Basketball.

As for the Lady Boilermakers as a whole, right now a 14-13 record probably will keep them out of the Big Dance, unless they really go nuts in the Big 10 Tournament in a couple of weekends. They've had some quality wins and other near misses, but their inability to win on the road in the conference is probably what will keep them in the NIT. But in a year or two, I'd say, watch out!