Better depth bodes well for Harper

Starting her third year as the Harper College women's basketball coach, Jenny Turpel is starting to see the fruits of her labor.

"We are getting better year," she said. "We are doing things the right way."

Turpel cautions that the progress isn't always dramatic, but part of her optimism for the season ahead comes from improved depth on this year's roster.

"We have a lot more talent," she said. "Last year we were limited in what we could do."

Indeed, Harper returns four sophomores from last season's team, including point guard Kim Herzog (Buffalo Grove), who will once again be paired in the backcourt with Nastia Solsaa.

Another familiar name is sophomore Nicole Soderholm (Buffalo Grove), who has spent a couple of seasons on the Hawks' soccer team.

Sophomore forward Ashonte Sims rounds out the returners Turpel is expecting to impact the team as floor leaders.

Look for the Hawks to go eight deep in their rotation. Turpel says she has not settled on a starting lineup for Saturday's 5 p.m. season opener at Elgin Community College. That may be common this year, as playing the matchups will a regular tactic.

Freshmen expected to see court time are Tamara Zivak (Barrington) and Lexi Zades (Conant). A more diverse offense figures to provide opportunities for players like them.

"(Zivak) has the skill to go inside and out," said Turpel, favorably comparing Zivak's skills and decision-making ability to that of Herzog.

Turpel says she'd like her team to develop an inside presence and play a more physical game, and hopes freshman Mary Saitta (Hoffman Estates) can help in both areas.