First impressions

Old Dominion’s Jessica Canady doesn’t expect to be a spectator much longer.
The preseason All-CAA forward didn’t log any minutes in Friday’s 85-52 exhibition victory over Chowan. Offseason knee surgery has sidelined ODU’s only senior, but she plans to be ready for Friday’s season opener against Stanford, and maybe sooner.
“You might see a sneak preview of me Tuesday,” said Canady with an impish grin.
ODU plays it final exhibition Tuesday against Shaw.

As for those who did play, here’s what coach Wendy Larry said:

Jackie Cook: “Did some outstanding things. She was defensively aware. Hit some nice shots. Was strong with the ball.”

Shadasia Green: “Very visible on the offensive glass. It’s important for her to have that kind of presence because we’re pretty slight.”

Kquanise Byrd: “She had some nice moments, but defensively she’s going to have to be willing to put in some extra time.”

Vicki Collier: “What a warrior. She missed some shots I’m sure she would have liked to have back, but it was awfully nice to see her out there.”

Our thoughts:

We, too, loved Jackie Cook. Hard to believe she’s only been in the system for a few months.

Point guard duties might have robbed Jasmine Parker of her typical offense. Parker went 0 of 5 from the floor. Parker and Carolann Cloutier combined for three assists and seven turnovers. Bottom line: The overall point guard play is a work in progress.

With all due respect to ODU’s post players, the Lady Monarchs’ 59-30 rebound advantage was hardly a surprise. Chowan has no player taller than 6 feet and there’s only one of her.

Loved the crowd – almost 3,000 people for an exhibition and a sizeable student section. Speaking of packing them in, Wendy wants to pack the Ted for No. 2 Stanford. The players will be invading the tailgate section at Saturday’s football game reminding fans that tickets are $5 for Friday’s season opener. Wear your blue.

Listen to Wendy’s first radio show on Monday at 6 p.m. on ESPN Radio 94.1 FM.