Depth and versatility are two of the reasons for optimism this year for Illinois basketball. Just 48 hours prior to the season opener vs. Clemson, the Illini hope that versatility will make players fresher at the end of games.

The versatility comes in large part to the freshman. The addition of freshman guard Anne O'Neil, gives Illinois a player who can play the point or off guard or the small forward slot.

O'Neil will help give starting point guard Shavonna Hunter a breather more often. Thursday at practice, O'Neil, Hunter, and junior All-Big Ten performer Allison Curtin were draining threes left and right. Although the shots haven't been falling as consistently as Coach Grentz would hope, the shots are coming within the offense.

O'Neil has put together two solid pre-season contests. While her shot is still improving Coach Grentz said, "I have been impressed with her floor game. She has the ability to see the whole floor and distribute the basketball."

Coach Grentz also says she plans to play everybody in the season opener against Clemson. Sophomore Suzanne Curtin, who worked as hard as anyone this summer, and junior transfer Yolanda Smith will get their share of playing time as well at guard.

Inside the versatility comes with the addition of freshmen Brenda Blackburn, Iveta Marcauskaite, and Aminata Yanni and with the return of Cindy Dallas.

Marcauskaite, who scored 27 points and grabbed 10 rebounds vs. the Reebok Lady Stars on Sunday, has been most impressive with her post moves. "We still have to get them the ball," Grentz cautioned about her post players in general. "However, they have shown signs of being able to score when they get the ball in the right position."

Grentz is most encouraged with the progress of 6-6 Brenda Blackburn. Thursday during practice Blackburn and Marcauskaite were on the floor at the same time during a few offensive sets. Although that may or may not happen that often, when they are on the floor together, they give the Illini a big presence inside. "Brenda has stepped in and worked extremely hard," Grentz said "Her confidence is growing each day and she is proving more and more that she can really help us."

During the latter part of this week, Coach Grentz has focused on her team playing a full 40 minutes of basketball. The coaches have used a lot of different combinations. "There have been some anxious moments, certainly," said Coach Grentz. "But there have been some very good days of practice and the players have kept a positive attitude."

Theresa Grentz elected to Hall of Fame Illinois Head Coach Theresa Grentz has been elected to the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame, the WBHOF announced on Monday.

Coach Grentz is being honored not only for her accomplishments as a coach but also for her accolades as a player. The coach was an imposing player on the Immaculata AIAW National Championship teams in 1972-74 and was the coach of the Olympic Team.

Grentz is beginning her 27th season as a head coach and sixth as the head coach for the Fighting Illini. She has compiled a 560-211 record overall and 99-56 mark at Illinois. She will be gunning for her 100th career victory Saturday vs. Clemson.

Besides her impressive credentials, Coach Grentz is honored for her advancement of the game of basketball. Her 1992 Olympic Team was the catalyst for the present day women's professional league. She is currently President of the WBCA.

Ticket prices provide family rates Coach Grentz held her first basketball teleconference with local and national media today. Among the topics was the increased attendance in her five years at Illinois. She was quick to point out the many ticket options for Illinois fans. For instance, general admission seats in C section are just $2. The Grentz Gang is again an attraction for kids. Those youth 8th grade or younger are admitted free when in some sort of uniform. The first 200 kids that meet that criteria get to sit behind the Illinois bench as members of the Grentz Gang.

The Illini practice from 3-5:30 Friday.