NFL
By: Nick Andre
Who else is excited for women’s college hoops to be underway? There are several teams to look forward to that include tremendous star talents. For The DePaul Blue Demons, how can the program elevate after a pretty solid season? One of the players that will set the tone for the team will be Deja Church, a player who always plays with a chip on her shoulder.
For those who are unaware, it has been nothing but success for DePaul ever since Church’s arrival in 2019. The team has done nothing but great things in the Big East but have still fallen short of being a true contender. Of course, with a powerhouse in UCONN, Marquette, and Seton Hall in the same conference, there will be some difficulties being on top. Heading into this season, the Blue Demons should have a chip on their shoulder to dominate the conference and send a message to the other teams.
Church has continued to grow into a leader throughout her college career. The one thing that stands out is that she stays in attack mode on both ends. On offense, she can do it all. Church is actively seeking ways to get a quick bucket. She will either attack for an easy look around the rim or find an open teammate. The Blue Demons thrive in transition and always look to get an easy bucket. It’s always important that they capitalize off forced turnovers.
The defensive end matches the same intensity. Church is active and her awareness is better than many. She is great at getting into the passing lanes and deflecting steals. Last season, the Blue Demons averaged 11.1 steals and were one of the best defensive teams in the conference. Given her intensity on that end of the floor, Church was one of the factors that set the tone on defense.
Church averaged 13.3 points per game on 42 percent from the field. She had many games where she would carry the load, including multiple 20 point performances. Each season, Church continues to gain confidence in her offense as it displays on the court. This upcoming season, Church will continue to capitalize and put up big numbers for the benefit of her team.
Heading into the 2021-22 season, what is yet to come for the DePaul Blue Demons? Can they make a surprise and get off to a hot start in the Big East? The team believes that they have improved compared to last season and will look to shock the world heading into this season. Alongside sensational players in Sonya Morris and Lexi Held, Deja Church will have a productive season and look to capitalize off of last year.
