Wheeling, W.Va- The Wheeling University women's basketball team (6-16, 6-12) looks to catch their third victory at home this season. The contest will be against Mountain East Conference affiliate, Fairmont State University (12-11, 10-8), Wednesday, 5:30PM at the Alma Grace McDonough Center.
Last Saturday, the Cardinals were up against the #1 team in the region, Glenville State College (22-0, 17-0). The game did not go in favor of Wheeling, but it was not without a strong effort from the team. With the final score being 105-47, Wheeling's Lauren Calhoun continued to be a dominant force in the paint, as she finished with 18 points.
The first quarter saw Wheeling start strong. Keeping it a one-point game through the first five minutes, the Cardinals were starting to gain momentum. But as the quarter went on the Cardinals shot 4-13 from the field. At the end of one the score was 25-10, Glenville. The second quarter was better offensively for Wheeling, shooting 7-15 from the field and scoring a total of 15 points. Ava Lickliter, Ally Ziegler, Shanley Woods, Jacqui Hinesmon and Emily Holzopfel all contributed in the second.
The third quarter was a struggle for Wheeling as they only scored nine points. Glenville was able to grow their lead 78-34 at the end of the third quarter. The fourth quarter saw a better offensive performance from the Cardinals, scoring 13 points. All but two Cardinal's that got into the game were able to score points.
Redemption is now on the mind of Wheeling University's women's basketball team. Their next opportunity of victory will come against seventh ranked (MEC Standings), Fairmont State University. This is a big game for Wheeling, as improving conference ranking is still a priority with the MEC playoff tournament looming. Currently at ninth, the Cardinals would like to create some movement before season's end.
The Matchup
Wednesday evening's game will be the 42nd meeting of all-time between the two schools. Currently, Fairmont leads the series 26-16. Looking to get their win total to 17, Wheeling would also like to improve their home win record to seven games against the Falcons.
The last time the Cardinals took on Fairmont State, Wheeling hung on to win 71-69. Calhoun had an overpowering night, scoring 25 points and 21 rebounds. Shamia Strayhorn also stepped up, scoring 12 points, nine rebounds and three assists. An all-around effort contributed to the close victory as Wheeling had six players score over five points. The Cardinals look to defeat the Falcons for the second time this season.
The Details
Tip-off for Wednesday evening's game is scheduled for 5:30PM inside the Alma Grace McDonough Center. You can watch the game live by clicking HERE or follow along with Live Stats HERE.
