u/yesbutwrong

​

Comments: (I recommend listening to the post-game interview if you have not yet. Especially if you follow multiple sports/teams). TL;DR -

Roberts said that "we" want Cam to play better; that "we" believe in Cam and she needs to believe in herself; and the team needs to work on having better chemistry.

The "we" that Roberts used is assumed to be herself and the team/organization as a whole. The first issue I noticed with this phrasing was that Roberts is basically saying, "we" are not the problem, "she" (Cam) needs to figure it out and play better. Which is a common response to any player after a bad game. Fans say it, commentators say it, sometimes even teammates will say it about each other. But that response is not supposed to come from the Player's own organization. Or Coach in this case. E.g Doc Rivers & Bucks.

Not unless the Coach is discussing a lifetime star player dealing with a slump. E.g Kerr & Warriors; Hammon & Aces.

Secondly, Roberts' commentary on team chemistry is valid but only up to a point. The Aces also fielded new players. Specifically Chennedy Carter. In watching the game, you can see the amount of plays prepared to have Carter start possessions in a scoring position. I think she only received the ball on about half of those possessions (because Point Gawd, A'ja, & Jackie were getting to it anyways), but the important part is that you could see Carter in a designed shot position often.

When actors lack chemistry to improve, the director steps in to make the play. E.g Nakase & Valkyries.

I am interested to see how the players respond to yesterday over the next few weeks. Both the loss & comments. Even if you are not Cam, I wonder if any of the other low minute players felt a reaction? Wheeler shot 1-11 yesterday but had 18min (she also had 3 steals). I wonder what Z & Rickea are up to?

Note: I was not Roberts' biggest fan before because she coaches like Darvin Hamm on a good day, but making those statements after such a tough opening game feels extra devastating.