Dre'Una Edwards' gradual path to shaking off the rust
Sunday’s loss was a shock to the system for Kentucky Women’s Basketball. Perhaps no reality hit harder than Dre’Una Edwards’ painfully rusty performance.
In Kentucky’s 73-64 loss to Texas A&M, Edwards recorded 10 points and 10 rebounds. The contest is only Edwards’ second game back from suspension. The redshirt junior was unavailable for four games from Jan. 20 to Jan. 27 due to disciplinary matters.
While Edwards’ basic statistics seem exceptional, they aren’t impressive upon further inspection. Edwards shot 4-16 from the field and had a team-high six turnovers against the Aggies.
Edwards’ first game back from suspension was eerily similar. The 6-foot-2 forward recorded 10 points and eight boards, yet committed five turnovers. Luckily for Edwards, head coach Kyra Elzy believes the team can mend the out-of-practice star’s recent issues.
Kyra Elzy on Dre’Una Edwards
“She leaving some points on the board because she’s trying to play so hard,” Elzy said in the postgame press conference following UK’s loss to Texas A&M. “She might be playing a little too fast. But, that’s something that we can go back and correct.”
Before her suspension, Edwards was Kentucky’s second-leading scorer and leading rebounder. Edwards was averaging 15.9 points and 7.7 rebounds per game.
Although she hasn’t reached these heights again quite yet, her progress has been promising. Elzy knows for her team to be at its best, Edwards has to perform.
“Dre continues to progress. She does make us different. She makes some defensive plays that we need,” Elzy said. “Obviously, she can lead the break and score. We’re going to continue to challenge Dre.”
Self-reflection
Edwards is seemingly ready to be challenged. The California native didn’t shy away from stepping back into her role when given the opportunity.
In her first game back, Edwards played 26 minutes. On Sunday, Edwards rarely came off the court, playing a total of 35 minutes. For reference, Edwards’ season-high in playing time was against Georgia when she played 36 minutes. She’s getting prepared for whatever comes her way next.
“We just got to lock in and stay focused at all times because when we’re not locked in, it hurts us,” Edwards said after Sunday’s game.
Edwards is yet to reclaim her spot in the Wildcats’ starting lineup. Nevertheless, with her minutes piling up, it wouldn’t be surprising to see her reprise her role soon. Edwards, for one, is starting to feel like her old self.
“I feel good,” Edwards said. “I’m definitely finding my rhythm again.“
Edwards must feel great for her to contribute in Kentucky’s upcoming game against No. 1 South Carolina. In the teams’ previous meeting this season, South Carolina dominated the ‘Cats in a 74-54 blowout.
In that contest, Edwards recorded 10 points and a season-low one rebound. Edwards will have her chance for revenge as the ‘Cats take on the Gamecocks on Thursday at 7 p.m. EST in Memorial Coliseum. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.
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