The Duke Women's Basketball Team had an early kickoff for the 2012-13 season as they practiced today in preparation for their upcoming European tour. The Blue Devils will play three games over seven days in France later this month and also visit Italy on their trip to the continent. Duke will be somewhat shorthanded, dressing only eight players in facing one team from the top French professional league and two from the second league. Elizabeth Williams (leg), Richa Jackson (knee), Amber Henson (knee), and newcomer Katie Heckman (knee) all are unlikely to play, opening the door for plenty of playing time for newcomers Alexis Jones and Sierra Moore as well as walk-on Jenna Frush. Senior Allison Vernerey will have the unique opportunity to show her teammates her hometown of Mulhouse, the site of their third and final game.

Below are photos of the practice (76 public, 39 more for members who log in) -- a session in which assistants Joy Cheek and Candace Jackson saw a lot of hands-on time. Both ran individual drills with players and Cheek was actually a big part of the 5 on 5 half court work which also featured several male practice players.