Coming off their third NCAA Tournament appearance, the women’s basketball players open their season Nov. 5 with an exhibition game in Ames, Iowa.
Jacquar Westbrooks, a psychology junior, said, “I’m really excited to make the trip to Iowa and get the season started with my teammates.”
Their opponent, the Iowa State Cyclones, a Division I school, ranked fourth in the Big 12 Conference.
Noel Johnson, women’s basketball head coach, said, “It’s important for us to play in a little bit bigger atmosphere than what we’re used to. It gives us an opportunity to have that experience of playing under some bright lights early in the season and having the same sense of preparation whether it is a Division I or not.”
Players look to build on last season’s 23-win season and runner-up finish in the Lone Star Conference, now ranked in the LSC Pre-season Poll after finishing with a 23-7 record last year and tying for the third most wins in school history.
Charlie Carr, athletic director, said, “Iowa State invites us to play them, in their arena every pre-season. We don’t lose any money. They pay for our hotel, travel, food, and give our kids a great experience to play against very good competition.”
The game will be streaming live on Iowa State’s website on www.cyclones.com.
After facing the Cyclones, the women will tip-off their home opener in the Ashbrook Classic, Nov. 13 at D.L. Ligon Coliseum against the Rogers State Hillcats.