Oregon opens the 2004-2005 season at McArthur Court with an exhibition game against
a team that proved to be a worthy opponent in the 1970s — Western Oregon.
The Wolves possess a 6-6 all-time record against the Ducks, whose games against each other took place from 1974-78.
Western Oregon collected
an overall record of 8-18 last
season. It returns four letter-
winners and two starters, including senior forward Shannon
Talbott, who was the Wolves’ second-leading scorer.
The Ducks will be worrying more about the health of their
returning players. Senior Kedzie Gunderson’s defensive skills will be missed due to a season-ending tear of her right anterior
cruciate ligament.
Senior Cathrine Kraayeveld
is recovering from the same
injury, which she sustained
five games into last season. Oregon is eagerly anticipating
the return of Kraayeveld, as
well as her abilities from the perimeter and in the paint under either basket.
“Cathrine returns with her tremendous and efficient of
fensive versatility,” Oregon
head coach Bev Smith said.
“Her defensive prowess and
rebounding will return a significant bite to our defensive sting. Cat’s ability to make a big
difference at both ends of
the floor gives our team tremendous punch offensively, and
a solid presence in the paint
defensively.”
“Cat has a great understanding of the game and is healthy for her final season as a
Duck, and she will make it an exciting one.”
Smith mentioned that her squad’s rebounding and defense were acceptable in last week’s scrimmage, but there is room for improvement.
Center Andrea Bills is expected to be Oregon’s strength on
the boards. The senior was
recognized as a Pacific-10 Conference honorable mention
selection last season and led
the Ducks in points, rebounds, field goal percentage and blocked shots.
“‘Drea is our most consistent low-post threat and has become a very experienced, effective
and smart defensive player,” Smith said. “She has been
our ‘Iron Woman’ for the last three years.”
Oregon has been ranked this preseason to finish fifth in the Pac-10 by coaches and sixth by the media. The Ducks finished eighth in the conference last season at 6-12 and 14-15 overall.

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