ESPN

Moderator

  (2:08 PM)

Hey everybody, Happy March Madness! Welcome to the 2004 NCAA Women's Selection On-line Show! We'll get started at 4:30 ET on Sunday afternoon, in the meantime, send in your tournament comments, bracket banter and also your questions for Duke's Alana Beard and Texas Longhorn Heather Schreiber who will each make a special appearance right here on Sunday!

Moderator

  (2:11 PM)

Go ahead and send your comments and questions now, we'll save them for Sunday. Just type your name and comment or question in the fields below and click "Submit" to send it our way!

Moderator

  (4:25 PM)

Alright everybody, T-minus five minutes. Send in those comments and questions, we'll get started shortly!

Moderator

  (4:38 PM)

It's that time! Away we go!

Moderator

  (4:40 PM)

What should we chat about first? How 'bout some No. 1 seed projections? Purdue? Penn State? Tennessee? Duke? Texas? What do you think?

David from Durham

I see Duke, Tennessee, Texas, and Penn State as no. 1s

Kristen

No. 1 seeds: Duke, Tennesse, Purdue and Texas.

Heather Satterfield, Durham,NC

Duke is a definite number 1 seed. I am questionin Texas, not sure if they should get a No. 1 seed, but we shall see.

Jason, Indianapolis

Purdue, Penn St, Duke, and Tennessee Those are clearly the no. 1 seeds. Had Texas won last night, I think they would have been a #1 ahead of Penn St.

Moderator

  (4:44 PM)

I don't know, I think Texas -- Big 12 tourney title or not -- still gets the edge. That's just me.

Ben, Mt. Pleasant, MI

I definitely think that Tennessee, Duke, Texas and Purdue should be the No. 1 seeds of the tournament. Even though Texas lost to Oklahoma, they beat both Duke and Tennessee. Tennessee played a much tougher schedule than anyone in the country and won the toughest regular season conference. I don't think Penn State because they didn't play the schedule and couldn't come through in the weaker Big 10 conference

kcole Alamo,TN.

Texas deserves a number i seed!!

Moderator

  (4:45 PM)

Wow, even the Tennesee chatter is giving the nod to Texas.

kcole Alamo,TN.

I hate to say it but I have not watched penn state or purdue enough to comment on either!!

Moderator

  (4:46 PM)

Ahh, the truth comes out.

Steve from London

Are you going to flash the selections in this chat window for those of us who don't have access to cable TV?

Moderator

  (4:47 PM)

Yep, I can do that. For those of you near a TV, the Selection Show starts in about 15 minutes. I'll make the announcements on here too, we can talk about each pick as they happen. Just for you across the pond, Steve.

Kristen

I agree with you Ben. Texas did beat both Duke and Tenessee and that's why they should be a number one seed.

Erin

absolutely! big 12 is a much tougher conf overall than big 10

Steve, Spokane

Penn State beat both Texas and LSU and won the reg. season Big 10...their schedule wasn't that bad.

JD, Chicago

I think Texas's loss last night, especially given its lopsidedness, opens up the door for Penn State to get a #1 seed. The Lady Lions certainly have the credentials; the only thing holding them back was the 5 losses

Durgesh in Boston

Yeah, I think No.1 seeds should be Tenn. Duke ,Texas and Penn State

Anthony, Memphis TN

I like Purdue, Tennessee, Duke, and Penn. St. Remember, Penn St. beat Texas by 20 earlier this season.

Mike Ryan, durham nc

Duke, Tenn, Penn, Purdue

David from Durham

Penn State played a really tough schedule, and Duke destroyed Purdue by 30! Penn State definitely deserve the 1 seed

Durgesh in Boston

But Penn State beat Purdue twice! And they beat Texas as well. They only lost to Purdue by one point, but they beat them the other two times.

Vinny Boston

What about UConn

Moderator

  (4:51 PM)

What about 'em? They're not a 1 seed this year, that's for sure.

JR, Pittsburgh

UConn is a strong #2 seed and should scare any #1 they come up against

Moderator

  (4:51 PM)

Amen. Agreed, JR.

David from Boston, MA

UConn doesn't deserve a #1, but I'll bet they're in New Orleans in April

Moderator

  (4:53 PM)

Especially if they enjoy the familiar comforts of Hartford for a few rounds.

Heather , Durham,NC

I agree as well JR, being the No 2 seed for UCONN may serve as a motivational factor.

David from Boston, MA

I think Penn State's "reward" this year is a #1 seed and a date with UConn at the Hartford Civic Center!

Thomas, Norfolk

And we all saw how well UConn played coming off their loss to 'Nova in last year's Big East tournament...

Steve, Spokane

UCONN's character in question. lots of questions with the program and team dynamics...it will be a true test of the team to see how they respond.

Ron, Lafayette, IN

UConn is struggling right now. They're prime for an upset.

Kevin in Macon

The only question about UConn is whether there's any chance of them going somewhere besides Fairfield for the subregional. I don't think it's likely but I wouldn't rate it as impossible

David from Durham

Wello, Hartford hasn't been as good to them this season

Moderator

  (4:56 PM)

This is true. We'll have to talk about Boston College in a minute.

Mel, Durham

Where will Duke go? Creme has them in Seattle, but that hardly seems fair...

Moderator

  (4:57 PM)

Yeah, but somebody's got to go.

JD, Chicago

UConn may be a #2 seed, but good luck to the #1 that has to beat them in front of 16,294 opposing fans

Ben, Mt. Pleasant, MI

UConn isn't struggling, they got beat by a team that was more familiar with them, look for them to make a run through the tourney as always

ANTONIO,TALLAHASSEE,FL

UCONN IS WEAK THIS YEAR AND WILL NOT WIN IT ALL ANYONE DISAGREE?

Sara, Eugene, OR

UConn is a tournament team. they've proved that many times.

David from Durham

So much depends on D. Taurasi's back and ankle, and whether she can get any help

ryan (lusby,md)

they don't have the confidence they had earlier in the year.

PJ Guilford

Would UCONN go out east and PSU to the midwest? Id like to see them both in hte same bracket

Moderator

  (5:00 PM)

Penn State might be sent to the MIDWEST, but depending on how they No. 1 seeds shake out, Penn State could also stick around and end up in the same bracket in the EAST with the Huskies.

Paul from CT

Go huskies and PSU....I am a die hard husky fan who went to college at Penn State....id love to see them match up

Sara, Eugene, OR

the NCAA would be stupid to send UConn to the midwest. they'd lose a lot of money in the northeast

Moderator

  (5:02 PM)

Right, UConn will be in the EAST, you can take that to the bank.

Scott from Baton Rouge

Is the selection show going to be delayed by the Texas game, or will it be aired on another channel.

Moderator

  (5:04 PM)

** ANNOUNCEMENT, the Women's Selection Show Special will follow the Texas - Oklahoma State game that is on ESPN right now. It will not switch channels, keep it on ESPN.

Kevin in Macon

The selection show is delayed every year.

Moderator

  (5:07 PM)

I know Kevin, but what can you do, that's the curse of March Madness. You can't break away from a Conference Tournament.

Heather , Durham,NC

Bet some players and coaches are sitting on pins and needles waiting to see how this thing will fold out.

Chris, Fredericksburg, VA

Problem is the Men's selection show will cut into the Women's. If UT-OSU goes to overtime, well....

Moderator

  (5:11 PM)

Hey, I hear you Chris, I'll drop a card into the suggestion box here at the Worldwide Leader, tell them to start the show later next year. Deal?

Bryn from Los Angeles

Can I get the selection show online?

Moderator

  (5:13 PM)

Everything (the entire show/announcement) is being delayed. I'll be posting the selection announcements RIGHT HERE as we get them.

Karen,TENN

When we be able to chat with AlanaandHeather?

Moderator

  (5:15 PM)

Here's the sched -- we'll chat all the way through the selection show with the pairings posted here on-line. Texas' Heather Schreiber will be calling in at 6:30 p.m. ET

Moderator

  (5:16 PM)

Alana Beard will be calling in at 7 p.m. ET

Moderator

  (5:17 PM)

So while we are chatting, you can send in your questions to those ladies. Just be sure to include something like "Alana - " or "This one's for Heather" and I'll set them aside to ask when they call.

Moderator

  (5:18 PM)

Make sense? Sound good to everybody?

Brandon, Boston

YUP!

Moderator

  (5:20 PM)

Good deal, one last thing and then lets get back to those heated debates. At 9 p.m. ET, NCAA Women's Selection Chairwoman Cheryl Marra will be online chatting. You can send in your questions to her at this link http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=4889

Moderator

  (5:20 PM)

Alright! Let's talk hoops!

Deb, Rhode Island

Anyone see my postings?

Moderator

  (5:22 PM)

I do Deb. I can see yours and the other 800 folks in this Show right now. Welcome everybody! Keep sending your comments. Thanks for joining us!

Miquel from East Lancing,MI

Will the West Virginia Girls Be able to dance, even thought they didnt go to the BIg East CHampioship?

Moderator

  (5:23 PM)

Oh yeah, I think so. 21 wins overall. Four Top-50 wins! WVU is legit!

Brandon, Boston

Yes, they should be the Big Easts 7th team, but I think they will be one and done in the tourney!

Eddie, Tuscaloosa, AL

SEC Questions, what will Vandy be seeded and will Ole Miss or Florida make it in?

Moderator

  (5:27 PM)

I'd say Vandy is a 2 or 3 ... and Mississippi and Florida are both in, in my book. The SEC will do alright, bet they'll send six teams.

Dave, Crown Point, IN

here we go

Eddie, Tuscaloosa, AL

YEA, IT'S ON!

Sara Canton

Let the seeding begin

Anthony, Memphis TN

it's about time.

Kevin in Macon

If Ole Miss is in the SEC will have 7 teams in.

Moderator

  (5:29 PM)

Yep, you're right.

Tank, Baton Rouge

is the ACC the best Conference

Moderator

  (5:29 PM)

Yeah, in men's hoops

Moderator

  (5:30 PM)

FIRST PAIRING!!

Moderator

  (5:30 PM)

1) DUKE VS 16)NORTHEWESTERN STATE

Moderator

  (5:31 PM)

8)ODU vs 9)MARQUETTE

Moderator

  (5:31 PM)

2) kansas state vs. 15) Valpo

Moderator

  (5:32 PM)

3)Boston College vs. 14)Eastern Michigan

Moderator

  (5:32 PM)

4)Texas Tech vs. 13 Maine

Moderator

  (5:32 PM)

5)La. Tech vs. 12) Montana

Moderator

  (5:33 PM)

6)Ohio State vs. 11)West Virginia

Moderator

  (5:33 PM)

7)Minnesota vs. 10)UCLA

Moderator

  (5:34 PM)

There's your MIDEAST First Round breakdown

www.tank27.com, Baton Rouge

LaTech got hosed

Moderator

  (5:35 PM)

I don't know about that, a five seed? They could easily have been a seven.

www.tank27.com, Baton Rouge

LaTech Kills TT in second round

Christina Enfield,CT

How did Minnesota drop to a Seven ?!?

Moderator

  (5:36 PM)

Lots of uncertainties Minn with Whalen's tourney status still up in the air.

Moderator

  (5:37 PM)

HERE'S THE MIDWEST ...

Moderator

  (5:37 PM)

1) TENNESSEE VS. 16) COLGATE

Moderator

  (5:37 PM)

8) GEORGE WASH VS. 9)DEPAUL

Moderator

  (5:37 PM)

5)FLORIDA VS. 12) NEW MEXICO

Moderator

  (5:38 PM)

4)BAYLOR VS. 13)LOYOLA MARYMOUNT

Moderator

  (5:38 PM)

6) STANFORD VS. 11)MISSOURI

Moderator

  (5:38 PM)

3)OKLAHOMA VS. 14)MARIST

Moderator

  (5:38 PM)

7)RUTGERS VS. CHATTANOOGA

Moderator

  (5:39 PM)

2) VANDERBILT VS. 15) LIPSCOMB

Moderator

  (5:39 PM)

THAT COMPLETES THE MIDWEST

Big12Baby

Wow - that is a tough regional there

DC, SF

Stanford a six? I feel for Oklahoma

mark, renton

how is stanford a 6 seed

April, Edgewood, KY

Oklahoma is a higher seed than Stanford? What's up with that?

Moderator

  (5:40 PM)

We all agree. Stanford is a lower than expected. We'll see what happens to The Cardinal

Steve from London

3 SEC teams in 1 region - does that mean the SEC will get 9?!?

Moderator

  (5:41 PM)

I don't know about nine, steve.... maybe seven?

katy in Rochester, NY

where is midwest played at?

Moderator

  (5:41 PM)

MIDWEST Regional is in Norman, Oklahoma.

Johnny, Chicago

this means purdue and uconn inthe same region

Moderator

  (5:42 PM)

Nope, not necessarily. Two regions to go. We still have the EAST and WEST

Kurt, Atlanta

Vandy in the same bracket as TN??

Moderator

  (5:43 PM)

Yeah!

Dee - Houston

Will Houston be a second seed?

Moderator

  (5:44 PM)

That's my guess. Might be a three.

Moderator

  (5:44 PM)

HERE'S THE WEST ...

Moderator

  (5:44 PM)

1)TEXAS VS 16) SOUTHERN U

Moderator

  (5:44 PM)

8)MICHIGAN STATE VS. 9) ARIZONA

Moderator

  (5:45 PM)

5) MIAMI (FLA) VS. 12)MARYLAND

Moderator

  (5:45 PM)

4)LSU VS. VS. 13 AUSTIN PEAY

Moderator

  (5:45 PM)

6)TCU VS. 11)TEMPLE

Moderator

  (5:46 PM)

3)GEORGIA VS. 14) LIBERTY

Moderator

  (5:46 PM)

7)VILLANOVA VS. 10 )MISSISSIPPI

Moderator

  (5:46 PM)

2)PURDUE VS. 15) ST FRANCIS (PA)

Moderator

  (5:46 PM)

There you have it, that's the WEST. Purdue is a two!

Dave, Crown Point, IN

grrr....angry about Purdue...they should be #1

Jamila (Boston)

Ouch!! Purdue got pushed out west?

Ken, Buffalo

Has penn state been seeded yet? or are they in the east with uconn?

Moderator

  (5:48 PM)

Nope, Penn State and UConn have yet to be seeded. That means they'll both be in the EAST together.

Harry, Roanoke,VA

Purdue should be happy. PSU will be #1 in East to play UConn in CT!

Stephen (Atlanta, Hook EM)

How many number #1 make it to New Orleans?

Moderator

  (5:51 PM)

That 's a great question. This will be an interesting tournament, ay folks? Wow, it's anybody's guess!!

Moderator

  (5:52 PM)

Duke, Texas and Tennessee are the No. 1s so far

Moderator

  (5:52 PM)

PENN STATE IS THE EAST'S NO. 1. THEY WILL PLAY (16) HAMPTON

Moderator

  (5:52 PM)

8) VIRGINIA TECH VS. 9) IOWA

Moderator

  (5:52 PM)

5)NOTRE DAME VS. 12) SW MO STATE

Moderator

  (5:53 PM)

4) NORTH CAROLINA VS. 13) MIDDLE TENNESSEE

Moderator

  (5:53 PM)

6) COLORADO VS. 11)UC SANTA BARBARA

Moderator

  (5:53 PM)

3)HOUSTON VS. 14)WISC -GREEN BAY

Moderator

  (5:54 PM)

7)AUBURN VS. 10) NC STATE

Moderator

  (5:54 PM)

2) CONNECTICUT VS. 15) U-PENN

Moderator

  (5:54 PM)

There's your EAST

Moderator

  (5:54 PM)

That's all 64 teams

Moderator

  (5:55 PM)

Your No. 1s are Penn State, Duke, Tennessee and Texas

Moderator

  (5:55 PM)

Everybody happy?

mark, renton

Penn has 5 loses, how are they no. 1 seed

Patrick Lafayette, IN.

How did Texas still get a #1. And Purdue gets put out west? Why aren't they #1. Could this help Purdue out in their bracket?

Matt (TX)

that is so wrong Purdue beat Penn and Penn got a higher seed than Purdue? what is this country coming too?

Moderator

  (5:56 PM)

Uh oh, we've got some angry Boilermaker fans out there.

Thomas, Norfolk

I'm stunned that Purdue, with only 3 losses (one to Duke, two to Penn State) is not only a #2, but got shipped WEST... that feels like a real slap in the face by the selection committee - especially when considering that PSU lost to ODU.

Moderator

  (5:58 PM)

Hey, I don't care what they're seeded. Purdue will do just fine. Coming off a Big Ten Tourney win, they'll stroll to the regionals.

St. Paul, MN

What seed did MN get?

Moderator

  (5:58 PM)

MN is a 7 in the MIDEAST

Moderator

  (5:59 PM)

The complete (printable) bracket will be available on ESPN.com any minute. I'll pass along the link as soon as we get it.

Moderator

  (6:00 PM)

Who's got a beef with the bracket? What's your complaint?

Moderator

  (6:03 PM)

Send in your initial reactions!

Mike, FL

I have a huge problem with this bracket. Tennessee got the shaft, being sent to Tallahassee. Florida got shafted, being sent out West. Auburn and LSU are vastly underseeded, Vandy got a gift and are overseeded, so is UGA. Pathetic job by the committee, absolutely atrocious.

Laura, Atlanta

The brackets must have been set prior to Texas' lost to OK. NO WAY that Texas should have been a #1.

Kevin in Macon

How is Missouri seeded higher than SMS? SMS had a better record, a better RPI, and beat Missouri AT Missouri! What else do they need to do?

Pat - Atlanta

Purdue got jobbed - it is a good thing they are a strong road team, but 3 time zones away is tough

Matt, Atlanta

My compaint is Va Tech getting an 8 seed - shouldn't they be closer to a six??

Memphis, TN

No complaints here! UCONN is not a #1 seed!

Brett, U of Montana

I feel like La Tech and Texas Tech got hosed, the Lady Griz have a 22 game homewinning streak and us students will make sure we make it 24 games!!

Scott - Boston

I think that it's unfair for some schools, such as Boston College, to have to potentially play lower seeds on their home court. I realize that attendance mandates this sometimes, but it seems there should be some other way.

Moderator

  (6:10 PM)

How do you think Florida feels getting a No. 5 seed and heading to Albuquerque to face the Lobos in the first round?

Amy, Shreveport

I want to know when the selection comittee will start respecting Lousisana Tech, we have the fewest losses in the top ten and have beaten one of the #1 seeds already once this year. GO Lady Techsters!!!!

Jim, Virginia

Strong anit-SEC bias by jamming schools in brackets together and sending Tenn to Midwest instead of Mideast. UConn gets #2 seed but stays in East - another gift for Geno. Does anyone on that committee lock at the RPI index? Purdue got shafted as did several others. Why not put Maryland in the Mideast with a chance to play in Norfolk? It gets worse every year.

Jason, Montana

How does a team with a 27-4 record, an RPI in the 30's and a 17 gamewinning streak only get a 12 seed. The lady Griz got the cold shoulder from The committee

Moderator

  (6:12 PM)

The only thing that's a lock on Selection Sunday is that everyone will be griping about something. But that's part of the fun!

Matt, Atlanta

i think the bracketeers tend to forget about regional match-ups (like the florida situation) and it really hurts the teams - remember, these are kids playing a sport. its almost as if they are punishing the kids.

Jan, Guthrie, Oklahoma

Why is UCONN always at home or near by? I think UCONN should have to travel out of state to earn the right to play in the Final Four. It seems UCONN is always playing in Conn. and will automatically make it to the Final Four. No other team gets an automatic berth to the Final Four, why UCONN?

Moderator

  (6:15 PM)

Well the folks at Penn State and Houston might argue with you about that automatic berth. Also, remember Tennessee didn't have to leave the neighborhood last year to get to the Final Four. There will always be problems as long as any school gets to play tourney games at home.

Fred, Springfield, Mo

It is all about the big school and favorite bias. Look at SMS, Beat Missouri and beat WV and have a record of 28-3 . It is just like when SMS went to the final four the two times in the last 10 years. Media and big school bias

Moderator

  (6:16 PM)

Sounds like lots of folks in Springfield aren't thrilled about the draw.

Scott

Big East teams - playing each other? Is it odd that 3 (4?) teams from the Big East are all in the same bracket? Is this due to travel considerations - or something else?

Moderator

  (6:18 PM)

It's tough to avoid some sort of conference logjam when they place that many teams in the field.

Moderator

  (6:20 PM)

Hey, for those of you still looking for a the bracket ...

Moderator

  (6:20 PM)

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncw/ncaatourney04/bracket

Moderator

  (6:21 PM)

Copy that link and paste it in your address window of a browser.

Moderator

  (6:25 PM)

Ok everybody, now it's time for special guest Heather Schreiber of the No. 1 seeded Texas Longhorns!!

Moderator

  (6:25 PM)

Send in your questions to Heather NOW!

Heather Schreiber

  (6:30 PM)

Hi everybody, this is Heather and I'm here to chat with y'all!

Tara (Madison)

Hi Heather! What's your immediate reaction to this year's bracket?

Heather Schreiber

  (6:31 PM)

I think our team is excited about getting a No. 1 seed and getting to play at home. I think our games are going to be tough, but every region looks pretty tough. Hopefully we can play well and win a lot of games.

Winifred, Wimberley, Texas

Will being a #1 seed bmake it harder or easier than than "sneaking" into the Final Four last year?

Heather Schreiber

  (6:31 PM)

There's not much difference between being a No. 1 and No. 2 in my mind. Either way, teams are going to be ready to play us and trying to beat us no matter what seed we are.

Kevin in Macon

Hi Heather! What do you know about Southern U, your first round opponent?

Heather Schreiber

  (6:33 PM)

We don't know too much right now, but by tomorrow and the next couple days we'll find out as much as we can and hopefully watch some film. More than anything else, we're going to be concentrating on our teamand our game. We know if we do what we can and play our best game we can beat anybody. We're going to respect them and just come into every game as prepared and ready as we can possibly be.

Steve, Augusta, GA

Heather, how do you bounce back mentally from last night's lopsided loss? GO HORNS!

Heather Schreiber

  (6:34 PM)

Thanks for the support. We just pretty much have to forget about yesterday. We get to start over. This is like a whole new season. Oklahoma played really hard and really well the whole game. We just have to try and not take as many plays off as we did last night and we should be ok.

Lori, San Antonio

Hi Heather! Do you y'all practice and prepare any differently for the tournament than the regular season?

Heather Schreiber

  (6:36 PM)

Well, I don't think we'll do too much differently. We look at film and scouting reports b/c we might not know some teams as well. But other than that, our gameplan really stays the same.

Clark, Lumberton, NC

Congrats on a number one seed -- HOOK 'EM!! Did you think the loss yesterday will serve as a sort of wake-up call?

Heather Schreiber

  (6:37 PM)

I think you could say that. We just look at yesterday and remember what it's like and how it feels to lose b/c we know that from here on out, if we lose, we're done. We're out of it. We know that.

PL from Austin

Question for Heather Schreiber -- why doesn't your team post you up more? That would be a tough match up.

Heather Schreiber

  (6:38 PM)

Well, every game coach looks for the matchups that are going to be the most successful for that game. Sometimes it is me posting up, other times other matchups are more favorable. It is all dictated by the other teams plan and who they are really looking to put the stop on that night.

Paul, Los Angeles

#1. Good Job. How do you deal with all the pressure of the Big Dance?

Heather Schreiber

  (6:39 PM)

We've had a lot of pressure to win all year long. The only added pressure now is that we know that if you lose it's over. But every team has that, no matter what seed you are. So we're all fighting the same battle whether No. 1 or No. 16.

Lana, Austin

Hi, Heather! Congrats on the #1 seed and HOOK 'EM HORNS! What would you say is the biggest difference between last year's team and this year's team?

Heather Schreiber

  (6:41 PM)

I don't know if there' s a whole lot of difference. Both were very strong defensively. It's hard to compare the teams from year to year. I think both were really talented and hopefully we can have as much success as we had last year.

James, SC

Heather, how do you feel about UCONN having that sort of homecourt advantage in the tourney?

Heather Schreiber

  (6:42 PM)

You know, that's just how the committee set it up. They make the decisions and wherever any team goes they are going to get tough opponents and challenging games and teams that want to beat you. Everybody has to win wherever you go. Playing at home is a little bit of an advantage but everybody is playing there best ball right now and everybody is going to be playing them tough no matter where the game is held.

Roland B, Houston

Heather, how do you keep from getting frusterated when your team isn't exactly clicking? Go Horns!!!

Heather Schreiber

  (6:44 PM)

It's something that we've been workign on. We try to stay positive with each other and keep each other up. Every team is going to miss shots and make mistakes, but we just have to keep everybody positive and that is something we really work on in practice.

Stefannie (Jersey City)

Heather, what do you guys do to stay in shape for the tournement

Heather Schreiber

  (6:45 PM)

We pretty much do the same things. Our practices and routine is basically trying to keep our legs fresh for the big games but we still have a little conditioning and weight training in there. We prepare and keep ourselves in the best physical condition we can be in for the big games.

Kevin - Huntsville, AL

Heather - Congrats on the #1 seed. I attended the Tennessee game earlier in the season and thought y'all played an awesome game. How has that win prepared you for the tournament?

Heather Schreiber

  (6:46 PM)

Thank you Kevin. Yes, the schedule that we played really prepared us for our tough Big 12 conference and now the NCAA Tournament. The atmosphere of that Tennesseegame is defiitely, I think, the kind of intensity that we will see in the tournament and I think that game definitely served us well.

Amanda-West Point,Nebraska

What will you miss most about not playing with Stacy Stephens next year?

Heather Schreiber

  (6:48 PM)

Stacy has been a big part of the program. She is a big leader on and off the court for all of us here, she has definitely been a huge contributor to the success that we've had in the past few years and she has really laid the foundation for what is to come here at Texas.

Liz- Westfield, IN

Heather, what do you do to pump yourselves up before every game? do you have any rituals?

Heather Schreiber

  (6:49 PM)

Well, I don't really have any, but our team, at home games, we usually have the same song that we play in the locker room before every game and we dance and get pumped. No one is really that superstitious though, on our team.

Dee - Houston

Heather do you think Houston will do well in the East?

Heather Schreiber

  (6:50 PM)

I've actually only seen Houston play one time, I don't really know a lot about their team, I just know that the state of Texas has a lot of great teams and we want them to do well and represent the state as best as they can and we wish them well in their bracket.

ashley Pittsburg

how had it been playing for Jody Conradt. Shes such a decorated coach and seems like a wonderful coach to play for

Heather Schreiber

  (6:52 PM)

Playing for Coach is a great experience. She is a Hall of Famer who has been around a long time and really knows what she's talking about. She teaches us class and respect and she is great for the program and the University.

Heather Schreiber

  (6:53 PM)

Thanks for all of the questions everybody! We're really excited to be playing at home! Enjoy this very exciting time of women's basketball. If there are games near you, I encourage you to get out and take in some of the games and support NCAA basketball anyway you can. Thanks again for all of the questions and support tonight! Goodbye!

Moderator

  (6:55 PM)

Ok everybody. That was great! I'm going to go ahead and get ESPN.com NCAA Player of the Year on the phone now. Send in those questions to ALANA BEARD. She will be answering your questions NOW!!!

Moderator

  (7:02 PM)

Alana Beard is on her way!

Moderator

  (7:08 PM)

Hey everybody, sorry for the delay ... I guess Alana is having a little bit of a busy night, hang tight. I'll keep you posted. She should be joining us any minute.

Dave, Crown Point, IN

Where can I get a printed bracket?

Moderator

  (7:10 PM)

http://espn-att.starwave.com/i/ncaa/04womensbracket.gif

Alana Beard

  (7:13 PM)

Hey everybody, ready to get started, happy to be here, so bring 'em on.

Jay, Durham NC

Hi Alana! Congrats to winning the ACC Championship for five years in a row! How do you feel about this year's NCAA Tourney? Duke looks very strong especially with exceptional senior class this year. GO DUKE!!!

Alana Beard

  (7:14 PM)

We're feeling great. It was nice to get the Selection Show out of the way, now it's time to get down to business. Our team chemistry is the best it has ever been and we are playing with consistancy and we're ready to go!

Matt Norman

What was the biggest key to your success this year on and off the court, Alana?

Alana Beard

  (7:16 PM)

For me personally is that I am having fun. I'm enjoying every minute of this, I know that it is the last run at improving my education and getting things done on the basketball court, so I'm just having a lot of fun and enjoying every minute of it.

Katy, Orange Tx

Alana, I'm a huge Longhorn fan, but i have to say that your Bluedevils are playing the best ball in the nation. I'd like to see yall two square off in the finals. My question is, which school do you think is a darkhorse and could upset some quality teams?

Alana Beard

  (7:17 PM)

This is the NCAA Tournament so I really believe any team could be upset on any night. Minesota, Baylor come to mind right away. But anybody, I mean, everybody is playing with the mentality that this is do or die.

Holly, Indianapolis IN

Hi, how do you mentally get prepared for the big dance?

Alana Beard

  (7:18 PM)

I've been preparing all year. Every time I step on the court, practice, game, you name it. Yes the Tournament is a higher in intensity, but as far as preparation goes, I really just keep doing the same things. My routine doesn't change.

Barry, AZ

Alana, how do you feel about playing in Norfolk as opposed to other regions?

Alana Beard

  (7:20 PM)

It's nice that we are close to home, but it really doesn't matter. We'll have to play consistant basketball no matter where we go, but it will certainly be nice having more fans for a little while.

tricia-colorado springs

What kind of music do you listen to? Coach G seems so serious--Does she have a great since of humor? I bet she does....Let's go Duke

Alana Beard

  (7:23 PM)

Oh my gosh, yes. She is so funny. I can't really describe it, but I sweat after every practice or game we are laughing about something she has said. Rap isn't my favorite -- in fact, I don't really like it. I listen to a lot of Christian music, and RandB and a lot of oldies -- The Temptations, Al Green, Aretha Franklin, stuff like that.

Nicole (east hartford, ct)

(for alana) Im a big fan of ct, but i also really like you, alana! Even though you and diana seem to ri vals the way the media makes it seem, are you guys friends? How do your teams interact when games arent going on? any hard feelings?

Alana Beard

  (7:24 PM)

You know what, Diana and I talk at least once a week if not more on IM or whatever. The media makes it out like that. Sure, it's rivalry on the court, but we played two years together on the court and we built a really great relatioinship. We call each other after games and after losses, give each other pointers. We are friends and we talk all the time.

Kristen

Hi Alana, you're my favorite basketball player. How is Brit doing? Also what is your favorite moment so far since you've been playing for Duke?

Alana Beard

  (7:26 PM)

Brit is doing well. She has been trying to do well from her knee -- which is such a tough injury to deal with freshman year, but when Britney Hunter gets it all together, she will be an incredible factor. As for my best moment at Duke ... I don't think it has happened yet ....

almad cleveland

I watched your game against UCONN. i was pulling for you and then you guys are down 20. i turned it off. Watching sportscenter I saw you team when on a last second shot. What was that game like? You guys never quit

Alana Beard

  (7:27 PM)

That game showed a lot about our team character and how we refused to give up. We have the heart and the pride. We didn't want to go out the way it was going in the first half. That was by far the best game that I have ever been involved in in my college carreer.

JC, Durham

Hi Alana. A lot of Dukies like lady blue devils because you guys are so nice in person. I bet you love your teammates too. What do you guys to just hang out together?

Alana Beard

  (7:28 PM)

We are like sisters. All of us. I don't think that we can go a moment without laughing, we have so much fun together. I can't really explain what goes on, but whether we're on the court or not, someone will do something silly to keep our spirits up and keep us laughing.

Sue Anne, Raleigh, NC

What's it like playing in the Tabacco Rd. rivalry?

Alana Beard

  (7:30 PM)

You can't really explain in words what it means. Going into UNC, you just DON'T WANT TO LOSE. It's so deep. It's such an intense rivalry.

tess-colorado springs

What are your feelings when hear the Cameron crazies?

Alana Beard

  (7:31 PM)

It feels great. I came in as a freshman and they weren't there. We didn't have that fanbase and now the students are really a part of us. It's so incredible to have that support.

Jenay Duluth,GA

Hi Alana. You are my fav player and I was wondering who is the prankster on the team? Go Duke and I love u AB!!!!!

Alana Beard

  (7:32 PM)

You're talking to her! Every time something goes down, every time someone is missing something -- they always look at me. I guess I made that reputation for myself

David from Durham

Alana, what is the toughest defensive matchup that you've had in your career?

Alana Beard

  (7:33 PM)

Jackie Stiles without a doubt.

Kevin in Macon

Hey Alana! Northwestern State has the nation's assist leader, La'Terrica Dobin. What's your plan for controlling her?

Alana Beard

  (7:34 PM)

We played for our homecoming so we actually know a lot about those guys. It's going to be interesting b/c they are from Lousiana, we've already played them, and I have friends on the team. SHould be interesting. They are a good team.

Kevin - Huntsville, AL

Alana - Congrats on the #1 seed, Player of the Year...YOU ROCK! Do you think Tennessee will be your toughest opponent in the tourney?

Alana Beard

  (7:36 PM)

Thanks Kevin. I think everyone is tough. Even if a team doesn't look tough on tape, they are going to be tough in the tourney. That's all there is to it, that's the general rule of March. You can't take anybody lightly.

Jenay Duluth,GA

What do you do when your not on the court?

Alana Beard

  (7:37 PM)

I hang out, just chill. Go to movies, hang out with my friends. I'm not really a partier, I don't drink. I just hang out, watch TV, SportsCenter! All that good stuff.

Kelley, Aurora, Illinois

Alana, what kind of relationship does the women's team have with the men's team? Do you ever play against each other?

Alana Beard

  (7:38 PM)

We never play against each other, with our schedules and everything. We support each other. We try to get to their games whenever we can, whenever we have time.

Stefannie (Jersey City)

alana you and iciss are my role model i would like to know what can i do to play for duke love yall good luck

Alana Beard

  (7:39 PM)

The first thing to think about is grades. If you want to go to Duke, you've got to have the grades. As far as basketball, Coach G looks for that heart ... and you have to be able to play some defense. If you can do this, if you have that heart and dedication, you can play at any D-I school you want to.

Joe, Richmond, VA

Alana, how does your personal workout schedule change during the tourney?

Alana Beard

  (7:40 PM)

I think I'll still work the same way, I'll just be smarter. It will also be lighter.

Jay, Durham

what will you miss most about duke when you are soaring high in the wnba?

Alana Beard

  (7:41 PM)

My teammates and my coaches and all the friendships that I've developed along the way. The atmosphere at Duke is defintely something that will never be replaced. It is so small and it really allowed me to be me. I'm going to miss everything about this place.

Jenay Duluth,GA

How do you want to be remembered at Duke?

Alana Beard

  (7:44 PM)

You know, as much as I have done as a basketball player, I think the most important thing to me is being remember as Alana Beard -- the person. I want somebody to say that Alana has never changed and she will never change. I try to carry myself in a classy manor and I treat everybody I meet with respect. That is what I want people to notice and take with them. I want to be remembered as that. Me. Just me. Plain old Alana.

Moderator

  (7:44 PM)

Ok everybody, we're going to let Alana go enjoy this big night of hers.

Alana Beard

  (7:45 PM)

Thanks for coming in and logging on to the Show everybody. I really appreciate all the questions and the support. Hopefully I'll be seeing a lot of you in New Orleans! Thanks again, good night!

Moderator

  (7:49 PM)

Wow, what a great kid, huh?

Moderator

  (7:49 PM)

How's everybody doing? Filling out your brackets?

Kevin - Huntsville, AL

YEP...figuring out who Tennessee will beat to win the Championship in New Orleans!

Kevin in Macon

Are we on the best first round matchup now? It's gotta be Notre Dame-SMS. The Irish are way overseeded and SMS has something to prove. If it were anywhere by South Bend I'd pick the Lady Bears. I might pick them anyway.

Moderator

  (7:53 PM)

Sure, let's move on to the next topic! Best first-round matchup. Kevin says it's Notre Dame - SMS ... what do you think?

Zanesville Ohio

I like Va Tech-Iowa an d UCSB-Colorado. SB had a little slip in the middle of the season, but are always tuff at home.

jon - bristol, CT

i gotta agree with Kevin, though the West Virginia/Ohio State one should be pretty good too..

john springfield, missouri

sms notre dame for sure. 3 years ago rutgers beat conn on their home floor then smsu beat rutgers at rutgers. notre dame beat u conn this year on their home floor.. how ironic

Katy from Rochy

minn vs ucla is best 1st rounder

Moderator

  (8:01 PM)

Which No. 1 seed will be the first to fall ??

luke, ok

i see duke falling to Kansas State in the elite eight

Maria, Chicago

As much as I love Penn State...I think they are going to be the first ones to fall

Crystal, Austin

I hate to say it, but probably my longhorns. THey have have not been clicking at all lately.

Connecticut

i think texaswill be the first to lose uconn should have been a number one seed

Kevin in Macon

Duke has the toughest road. La Tech could take them in the Sweet 16. None of the others should be seriously challenged until the Elite 8.

Kerry, Indianapolis

Nah, Penn State will fall in Hartford. They'll be the first.

Ashley Pittsburg

i think tennessee has the toughest bracket, getting through a great Oklahoma team and an SEC opponent in Vandy will be hard

Patrick; Los Angeles CA

Duke is such a good team though, I think you gotta look at Purdue and UConn surely being able to beat number ones. It should be fun to watch!

Moderator

  (8:08 PM)

Ok everybody, the next order of business is the Final Four predictions. You can cast your official ESPN.com vote here (paste the following link in your browser) ...

Moderator

  (8:08 PM)

http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/sportsnation/polling?event_id=611

Georgia

UConn, Duke, Oklahoma, Purdue

Kevin in Macon

Duke, Tennessee, Purdue, Houston

Ashley Pittsburg

Tennessee, KState, Penn State and Texas

Kristen

Duke, Uconn, Tennesee, Texas

john--des moines

duke oklahoma sms texas

luke, ok

kansas state, tennessee, uconn, penn state

Bob in Las Vegas

Where do we vote?

Moderator

  (8:12 PM)

Go here and pick one winner from each of the four regions. http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/sportsnation/polling?event_id=611

Moderator

  (8:14 PM)

Also, be sure to cast your two cents in this NCAA Women's Bracket Poll http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/sportsnation/polling?event_id=610

Moderator

  (8:17 PM)

We're going to wrap up the Show now, but if you have any more questions/comments left. Take them to the head honcho -- NCAA Committee Chairwoman Cheryl Marra -- who will be chatting in about 45 minutes (9 p.m. ET). See you then folks. In the meantime, good luck flilling out those brackets!! Thanks for the great conversation tonight! Enjoy the madness of March!!!!

Moderator

  (8:20 PM)

Good night everybody!

Dave, Crown Point, IN

Can we just stay here then till there?

Moderator

  (8:21 PM)

Sure, you guys want to keep chatting?

Jeff/ Midland, TX

hey when does the head honcho start chatting

Moderator

  (8:24 PM)

9 p.m. ET (in about a half hour), She won't be in this room, though. We'll be in a different chat room for that. We can stay in here until then.

Lindsey, Bluffton OH

are you staying Moderator?

Moderator

  (8:24 PM)

Yep, let's talk hoops.

Dave, Crown Point, IN

any teams anyone think should have gotten in but didn't?

mike-st.louis

head of the selection committee??

Moderator

  (8:25 PM)

Yes, she will be here at 9.

mike-st.louis

great

Tara (Madison)

I don't know about who was left out, I just can't get over Stanford is a freakin' 6!!

luke, ok

Stanford gets no respect

Larry (Columbia, MO)

The Stanford-Mizzou Matchup entrigues me. That seems to be an upset waiting to happen. What do you experts think?

Becky - Rochester

Ohio State is a better team than a number 6 seed. Oh, by the way, last year Minnesota went to Stanford and beat them on their home court. A good team will win regardless of where they play

mike-st.louis

stanford #6 notre dame #5 2 seeds that made no sense

john springfield mo

sms a 12 seed if they went 31-0 they may have got a 10. notre dame doesn't want to see these sharp shooters

mike-st.louis

notre dame should have been a #10 at best

Mike, FL

More seeds that didn't make sense. Vandy #2, UGA #3, LSU #4, Auburn #7, sending Florida out West to the Pit, sending UT to Tallahassee. They really had no clue what to do with the SEC teams and some of them got gifts, but the majority got screwed.

Daniel, Henderson, TN

Chattanooga is only a #10 with 2 losses and 26 straight wins...however I am glad that they won't have to worry about Tennessee if they win...just Vanderbilt...haha

denise ny

anyone ever heard of lipscomb?

Bruce, Nashville

How about Lipscomb, a #15 seed, the first time they have been eligible for the tournament?

Moderator

  (8:35 PM)

Yep, it's there first time. This year's first-timers are Colgate, Eastern Michigan, Lipscomb, Loyolay Marymount and Marist

Moderator

  (8:35 PM)

Lipscomb was a NAIA powerhouse four or five years ago, then they made the leap to the NCAA.

Bruce, nashville

Lipscomb is in Nashville and plays in the Atlantic Sun. They beat Mississippi this year.

Hope / Nashville

VNADY / LIPSCOMB....really cool for Nashville....

Vernon-New Castle,De:

What happen to the ACC teams

Moderator

  (8:38 PM)

ACC is sending 4 teams? What more do you want?

Patrick; Los Angeles CA

Who do you think was left out that should have been in? Anyone?

Justin Newark, Ohio

What is up with a team that goes 25-3 (utah state) and they don't get to the tourney? How is that explainable?

Jeffery,Nashville TN

It is about the schedule you play non-conference....who has utah state played?

vicki,cincinnati

What is the breakdown for the # of teams from the major leagues?

Moderator

  (8:44 PM)

Big East is sending the most with 8 teams... Big 12 and the SEC are each sending 7 ... Big Ten sends 6 ... C-USA sends 4 ... ACC 4 ... Pac-10 only 3

Tara (Madison)

What school has made the most NCAA Tournament appearances?

Moderator

  (8:46 PM)

Louisiana Tech and Tennessee. They have gone to the tourney every year since the first one in 1982. They each have 23 appearances.

Scott Cincinnati

Moderator, those numbers are incorrect about the number of teams going.

Moderator

  (8:47 PM)

What's up Scott?

Moderator

  (8:50 PM)

Oh well, Scott let me know what's up. I just checked my numbers, I think we're good to go.

husky, CT

Do you believe that Purdue was better off being a #2 seed instead of #1?

Moderator

  (8:52 PM)

Purdue is such a strong baksetball team, I don't think it even matters what they are seeded. This slight could probably up their drive and motivation. The Boilermakers will do just fine. Mark my words.

Patrick; Los Angeles CA

I think it will really fire them up. I think that after beating Penn State in the tourney, they really deserved it. If Texas and Purdue make it to the regional final it should be a tremendous game.

Dave, Crown Point, IN

Yes. It will fire them up and they will probably end up going much much farther in the tournament

Tony, St.Louis

Have we figured out what the exact breakdown is from the major conferences yet, Scott seems to think those earlier numbers are incorrect what does the moderator say about that???

Moderator

  (8:54 PM)

Nope, those numbers are correct.

Moderator

  (8:55 PM)

Ok, everybody, we have to wrap this up now. It's almost 9 o'clock. It's time for the Division I Women's Basketball Committee Chair Cheryl Marra. Send in your questions to her here ... http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=4889

Moderator

  (8:55 PM)

See you there!