"I've become a lot better friends with Dani, and it's good to have chemistry with the tallest person out there," Jackson said. "Everyone on our team really supports each other ... With Dani out there, I have someone I can rely on. If I'm not having my best game, she'll pick up the slack. It's awesome."

Bennett has noticed the change in both players this season.

"Dani's physical presence is different this year," said Bennett. "It's made an impact. She takes a beating every night. Teams double and triple team her, and she just keeps playing with the ball above her shoulders. She's owning her game and she's comfortable with who she is."

Of Jackson, Bennett said, "She has all of the trademarks of a good guard. She can go right, left, see the court and she changes the pace of the game if she needs to. She is so fluid, she makes it look easy. She's just a very good athlete."

In addition to their natural ability, both girls work very hard to improve their skills.

"Jenteal runs through situations in her mind and practice so much that when she's put into those situations, it comes naturally to her. It's not an accident she can shoot 5-for-5 from the 3-point line. Those are things she's rehearsed," Bennett said.

Bennett agrees with her star players that the duo's supporting cast makes the Eagles so successful.

"No one gets hung up on who's getting the credit," Bennett said. "They really are friends, and that closeness carries over onto the court. They get most excited when we get a lot of assists."

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E-mail: adonaldson@desnews.com