RUSTON ââ'¬" As Louisiana Tech prepares for the first of two closed scrimmages against DI opponents this weekend, area that Lady Techster head coach Brooke Stoehr has consistently been pleased with during workouts is team chemistry.

With eight newcomers and only six returners comprising this season's roster, one might worry about team chemistry both on and off the floor. With so many new players trying to find their roles and mesh into a system in a short time, maintaining a positive attitude can sometimes be tough.

But according to Stoehr and the Lady Techster players, it has been one of the real strengths during fall practice.

"This year's chemistry has been really good, and I think that will continue," said lone senior Alexus Malone. "The values have already been instilled in us from last year, and we are just trying to carry that forward into this season. We are more intense. We have been working hard, and everyone is getting to know each other on and off the court."

Stoehr knows the importance of team chemistry. From her playing days in a Techster uniform to her coaching days on the Tech sideline, she understands and preaches the value it plays in success on the floor.

"We believe a great deal in the importance of our team's chemistry and the major role it plays in the success of our team," said Stoehr. "Every year presents new challenges with a new group and it is vital for us to work each day in building that chemistry and our focus on the team concept while continuing with individual development.

"This team has been enjoyable to coach and it has been fun watching them come together and interact with each other on and off the court. As the season progresses, it is extremely important we remain unified and always put the team at the forefront of all we do."

Sophomore point guard Kierra Lang started almost every game as a true freshman for the Lady Techsters. She isn't that far removed from adapting to a new program and life in Division I basketball. She said she has seen a difference in practice from her rookie campaign.

"The work ethic is completely different from the standpoint of we all push each other," said Lang. "We don't let that break us down; we let it bring us all up. By us pushing each other, it makes each one of us better. It's so nice. Everyone loves each other. We all get along. On the court, we all know we have each other's back no matter what. Even off the court. The chemistry is way better. There is no drama. Everyone seems so happy."

With seven first time Techsters on the 14-player roster, junior forward Reauna Cleaver said she has been very impressed with what she has seen on a daily basis from those newcomers.

"I can see the mentality in them all; they want to win," said Cleaver. "They are here for something. They don't want to be here just to play basketball. They all have a good mentality and want to go hard every day. I think that will make us better this year is that nobody wants to take a day off. Every one of them is here to work."

Tech opens the regular season Nov. 10 against Grambling State, one of 16 home games on this year's schedule. Season tickets are on sale and can be purchased by calling 318-257-3631 or emailing techtickets@latech.edu.