The Chron takes stock of the Stanford program and coach TV.

While still a marquee national program, Stanford has seen a string of early exits from the tournament in recent years. This year -- with a relatively favorable draw, senior leadership from Nicole Powell, and good recent play -- offers hope for a better result.

But don't expect TV to throw in the towel if it doesn't work out.

"I think Tara's at peace," said Colorado coach Ceal Barry, one of VanDerveer's closest friends in coaching. "She's playing the piano, she has her dogs. She's at a point where she's proven she's one of the best coaches in the country."