Key returning players:

Mindy Nielson, G, 5-6, Jr., 10.4 ppg, 3.9 rpg

Jazmine Foreman, G, 5-5, Jr., 6.8 ppg, 4.0 rpg

Coriann Wood, F, 6-1, Jr., 6.4 ppg, 4.8 rpg

Keilani Moeaki, F, 6-2, Jr., 5.3 ppg, 2.8 rpg

Kristen Riley, F, 6-3, So., 3.3 ppg, 3.6 rpg

Key newcomers:

Alexis Kaufusi, F/C, 6-1, R-Fr., Timpview HS

Kim Parker, G/F, 5-11, Fr., Wasatch HS

Stephanie Vermunt, G/F, 6-0, Fr., Bert church HS (Airdrie, Alb., Can.)

Keys to the season:

The Cougars need to improve on their home record and turn the Marriott Center into more of a homecourt advantage. They won more games on the road than in Provo last season. BYU's guards need to stay healthy, be leaders on the floor, and knock down outside shots. Freshman Alexis Kaufusi is expected to make an immediate impact on a team that at times lacked a physical presence last year.Season opener