Let's get it started: Norfolk State

Another installment in our series of previews of the state's Division I programs as they approach their first official practices:

NORFOLK STATE

Last season: 4-23, 0-16 MEAC, lost in 1st round of MEAC Tournament (Bethune-Cookman)

First practice: Monday

Meet the Spartans: "Midnight Madness" on Oct. 15 in conjunction with the men's team. Details are still being finalized, but the event most likely will be something similar to last year where they introduced the teams, had some drills up and down the court and even had a 3-point shooting contest between one of the women's players and one of the men's players.

Season opener: Nov. 13 vs. St. Paul's

Coach Debra Clark on:

Her players' offseason work: "They have definitely worked hard to improve in all facets of their game, and the new group of players have brought a lot of high energy and competitiveness. It's difficult to access to a certain extent how effective our preseason was because it was cut short by two weeks because of the early start to practice, so that was two less weeks in the weight room, two less weeks working out, etc. What they did accomplish in those four weeks, though, was a good sign that they have made significant improvement from last year."

Batavia Owens

Veterans poised for a breakout season: Marian Brooks came back in tip-top shape. She is much more mobile now and has a better understanding of the game and what we are doing here. Batavia Owens came back in much better shape than last year and has shown a lot of confidence out there. She's going to be a big factor for us at center this year."

Newcomer most likely to adapt quickly: "Rachel Gordon is ahead of the pack right now. She has shown herself to be very skilled and is picking things up very quickly."

Next up: William and Mary

Previous previews:
Longwood
James Madison
Old Dominion
Virginia
Richmond
Liberty