North Carolina guard Italee Lucus feels more comfortable these days in her new role. She's no longer a point guard in the No. 6-ranked Tar Heels' system and said it's liberating to just concentrate on scoring.
The 5-foot-8 sophomore guard shared point guard responsibilities with fellow freshman guard Cetera DeGraffenreid last season, though Lucas clearly seemed stifled by the requirements of the job.
Lucas said a move to the off guard spot has helped her get over those uneasy feelings. She clearly looked comfortable in the Heels' season-opening games against Western Carolina and Virginia Commonwealth, dribbling with confidence and some improved control. At times made erratic choices, but she often seemed more decisive with the ball.
Against Western Carolina, she scored 12 points on 6 of 10 shooting from the field, making 2 of 3 from 3-point range. She added eight points against VCU on 3 of 9 shooting.
Her numbers were not spectacular. She combined for seven turnovers for the weekend. Still, Lucas looked to use her speed and ballhandling ability to attack from the wing. She seems to be finding her shooting range and is figuring out how to balance her gifts with the coaching staff's expectations.
Listen to Lucas, a native of Las Vegas, talk about what's different this season.
Edward joined the News & Observer staff in 2004. He is a graduate of American University and Johns Hopkins University. He covers Wake Forest football and women's college basketball for the N&O. Edward is a native of Washington, D.C. He can be reached at 829-4781 or 
