CHARLESTON, S.C. – The College of Charleston women's basketball team is primed for a high-profile home showdown today with the conference leading Dukes of James Madison University at TD Arena, where tip-off is set for 11:30 a.m.
The Cougars (14-12) currently sit third in the CAA standings, two spots below the league leading Dukes who are a perfect 13-0 in conference play.
Here are the four things you need to know about today's game:
1) IT'S EDUCATION DAY!
Thursday's game marks the program's second annual STEM Education Day, an event held in conjunction with the College of Charleston School of Science and Mathematics, the Lowcountry Hall of Science and Math, and the women's basketball team. Over 1500 local students (grades 3-8) will have the chance to experience hands-on activities and demonstrations related to science, technology, engineering and math by College of Charleston Faculty as well as local STEM organizations before helping to cheer on the Cougars against James Madison.
2) THE COUGARS HAVE BEEN GREAT AT HOME
The Cougars are 8-3 at home this season, having downed three teams who played post-season ball just a year ago, including two NCAA Tournament participants South Florida and Delaware, as well as the defending WNIT champion Dragons of Drexel University. In 11 home games this season, the Cougars are averaging over 70 points per game, with a 10.8 point average margin of victory.
3) THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT: FRESHMAN ARE STEPPING UP!
It's been a team effort from the Cougars this season, who have six players averaging over six points per game. Most recently, however, it's been The College's talented corps of freshman that has helped lead the Cougars to victory in three of their last five outings. Shining brightest are back to back CAA Rookie of the Week winners Bre Bolden and Jasmine Carter, who have combined for 21 starts, 359 points, 230 rebounds and 64 steals in their first season in Charleston.
4) MARCH MADNESS ON THE HORIZON
With only three games left in the regular season, both the Cougars and the Dukes are eyeing post-season play. Last year, the Cougars made it all the way to the quarterfinals of the Women's Basketball Invitational, while James Madison was downed in the quarterfinals of the WNIT by the Florida Gators. This season, the College again have visions of march madness dancing in their heads, while JMU is currently ranked No. 3 in the collegeinsider.com women's mid-major top-25.
