All-conference forward Kate Endress and the rest of the Ball State veterans have been a big help for the incoming freshmen.
"We have very strong captains and everyone is such a big help," forward Lisa Rusche said. "Everyone is just picking everyone up and staying positive."
Rusche (6-foot-1) is one of three freshmen on this year's team, along with 6-1 forward Brandy Ross and 5-10 guard Julie DeMuth.
Rusche averaged 12 points, eight rebounds, and six steals at Oak Hill High School in Cincinnati. Ross averaged six points and six rebounds at Detroit Renaissance. DeMuth put up 10 points and 10 rebounds at Merrillville (Ind.) High school.
Head coach Tracy Roller said that all three freshmen are ready to play and expects them to contribute right away.
"We're gonna need them to play a lot of minutes this year so they have to step up and be ready to go," Roller said.
Roller says all three freshmen have progressed well since arriving at Ball State, especially before fall practices. DeMuth played AAU basketball over the summer, while Ross was taking summer classes and was able to hit the weight room.
The adjustment to the collegiate level took some time for the freshmen.
"It's a big change, everything from schoolwork to the athletic aspect," DeMuth said "We still have a few things to learn but that will come."
The pace of the college game is one of the main things to adapt to.
"It's definitely faster, everybody is so good," Rusche said. "We've got to get use to it."
But with the start of the regular season just over a week away, the freshmen have slightly mixed feelings about the start of the season.
"We're very excited, we think it's gonna be a good season," DeMuth said. "All the girls are great and we can't wait."
"I'm a little nervous and excited," Ross said. "I know we have a great team and we're gonna put a solid effort."
Roller says DeMuth will get the most options and out of the three, but both Ross and Rusche bring size up front for the Cards.
"We're gonna need all three," she said.
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