By Greg Halbleib

NORMAL – Illinois State women’s basketball returns many familiar faces as a new coaching staff begins the 2017-18 campaign.

The Redbirds host Eureka in an exhibition contest at 7 p.m. Wednesday on Doug Collins Court at Redbird Arena in the first game action under new coach Kristen Gillespie.

Skills development was the main focus during the last five months according to Gillespie.

“We did nothing as a team. Everything was really small group, just trying to focus on each individual, on their strengths and some of their deficiencies,” Gillespie said. “Our game plan with each member of the team was we want to try to be better basketball players by the time practice rolled around, and I really think our staff was able to accomplish that.”

Gillespie said the entire team has bought into her approach. Senior post player Hannah Green agreed that the team is giving 100 percent trust to the staff.

“They haven’t given us a reason not to trust them, so we’re putting our faith into what they’re asking us to do,” Green said. “And what they’re asking us to do is not anything outside of our ability.”

Junior guard Katrina Beck spent last season at the point, and that will change in this campaign.

“Being on the wing spots, I feel like I can create more for my teammates and be more effective on the court,” Beck said. “I’m excited to be in a little bit different role this year, and see what I can add to the team.”

The Redbirds return 10 letterwinners with three newcomers.

The regular season opens Nov. 11 at Oakland (Mich.). Wednesday’s exhibition can be heard live on WJBC-AM 1230 with pre-game at 6:50 p.m.

Greg Halbleib can be reached at [email protected].