Scouting Benet girls basketball

Benet

Coach: Peter Paul.

Last year: 17-12, 5-5, in the East Suburban Catholic Conference; lost in the sectional semifinal.

Top players: Danielle Canulli, sr., G; Kaity Ernsting, sr., G; Ashley Veselik, sr., F; Taylor Valentine, jr., F; Sidney Prasse, fr., G; Claire Munaretto, sr., F

Scouting report: If Tuesday’s season opener a four-overtime win over St. Ignatius is any indication, it should be an interesting season for the Redwings. Paul used 12 players Tuesday, and it wasn’t just because the game went so long. He calls this roster one of the most talented he’s had. “They’re pretty close,” he said. “Not much separates them.” The players know they will need to play good defense and box out well when rebounding in order to get playing time. Boxing out is especially important considering Veselik is the only 6-footer. “We’re just an average team,” he said of his players’ height. “When we shoot the ball well we’re going to be OK. When we don’t shoot the ball well we’re going to have some difficulty.” Canulli, who came up to the varsity as a freshman, will be counted on for her shot, as will Veselik, who can shoot the 3. Ernsting also has a good shot.