Nothing 'Awkward' About Ole Miss' Defense

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) Mississippi is a bundle of pardoxes and coach Carol Ross is the first to admit it.<br/><br/>The 7th-seeded Rebels' offense is improved by its tenacious defense and an ultra-quick

Saturday, March 24th 2007, 4:31 pm

By: News On 6

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) Mississippi is a bundle of pardoxes and coach Carol Ross is the first to admit it.

The 7th-seeded Rebels' offense is improved by its tenacious defense and an ultra-quick sprite named Ashley Awkward who triggers the press.

Ross says the team's defense has to be aggressive and quick. Otherwise, the team won't succeed.

The Rebels (23-10) had 15 steals and forced 29 turnovers in their 89-78 win over defending national champion Maryland in the second round.

With speed as an asset, Sundayâ€™s showdown with Oklahoma will be a contrast in styles.

The Sooners (28-4) have one of the top post players at the college level in 6â€™4 Courtney Paris.

Her twin sister, Ashley, is 6â€™3 and along with 6â€™1 Leah Rush and 6â€™ Amanda Thompson, it's clear the Sooners have size on their side.

Mississippi has Awkward, who is 5â€™-6, but nothing like what her name implies.